Newad will integrate NFC technology into its indoor advertising network. The company collaborates with Vancouver’s Gauge Mobile, a technology partner and developer of the Scanvee platform, which integrates the NFC management system.

As of January 2012, NFC chips, embedded into the advertising displays, will allow smartphone owners to tap their phone to the ad and instantly connect to a wealth of relevant information (including photos, videos, store finders, etc.), discount coupons and even the ability to purchase the products being advertised (concert and film tickets e.g.).

“This announcement is a testament to the constant evolution of advertising models, and to Newad’s ability to offer advertisers a range of cutting edge products. Not only is this good news for Newad and its advertisers, but for Canada’s entire advertising, marketing and mobility industry”, says Michael Reha, president and CEO of Newad. “The integration of NFC technology to our offer will now allow advertisers to establish a more direct relationship with consumers, to trigger more immediate and measurable purchasing decisions”.

The technology will first be integrated into 200 of Newad’s Big Backlit boards, located within the top college and university campuses across the country, where there is an important proportion of Canadian smartphone owners.