MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — BroadSign International Inc., a provider of hosted software for operating digital signage networks, has announced that BroadSign’s Software as a Service solution BroadSign Suite will be deployed to run the eVision network of digital screens in all U.S. Virgin Megastores. eVision is a content creator and an operator of digital signage networks in hospitality, recreational, retail and medical environments. The announcement was made during the second day of Screen Expo Europe in London.
Using BroadSign Suite will allow eVision to operate a network of 400 digital displays in 10 Virgin Megastores across the United States. Each location will have up to 40 screens geared to the affluent 18-44 year old demographic creating an “experiential environment” by entertaining shoppers and informing them of the latest movies, music releases, games, books, electronics, apparel and fashion accessories on a playlist-style programming loop. The displays will feature an eight-hour mix of high-definition content that can be updated daily while allowing customer interaction via mobile phones and the Internet.
“Our solution was designed to support complex programming and pinpoint targeting that can be done easily from one central location, so the BroadSign Suite’s rich functionality will be put to good use here,” said Rick Engels, president and chief executive of BroadSign International. “I’m also glad that eVision will be able to appreciate our latest enhanced campaign performance reporting system that further facilitates communication with advertisers.”
eVision’s roster of clients has included McDonald’s, Macy’s, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, Hard Rock Hotel, Hard Rock Cafe, H&M, Polo Ralph Lauren, Levi Strauss, JC Penney and the U.S. Armed Forces.
“Turning this bold and innovative concept into reality at Virgin Megastores was a challenge,” said Gary Hunt, president of eVision. “The vast amount of content, the need for customizing the program for each store and potentially for each area in the store as well as custom requirements from our advertisers led us to BroadSign. The company has proven that its software is the best fit for many of our networks.”
The network will be rolled out in February-March 2008. Most of the store’s suppliers have already committed to buying time on the network.
“The Virgin Megastores have always been about innovation and evolving the retail environment to meet the needs and desires of our customers,” said Dee McLaughlin, vice president of marketing, Virgin Entertainment Group, North America. “With the launch of Virgin Mega TV we are continuing that commitment. We are excited about the new technology that allows us to have a ‘live’ show playing in our stores.”
Source link: Screen Expo: Broadsign announces Virgin, eVision project partnership