CTV commissioned one of North America’s largest video walls to date for its 2015 ‘upfront’ presentation to announce its new lineup of TV shows.
When to sell, not rent
While the rental business model is a great way to get more clients to use digital signage, there are still many scenarios where will be better off purchasing than renting. If the client plans to use the same system frequently, for example, then it is worthwhile to invest in purchasing, installing and maintaining a permanent digital signage network.
Also, purchasing is sometimes more cost-effective when it comes to outdoor applications. Specifying and installing digital signage outdoors, especially in Canada, poses certain complications. The display must be rated for ingress protection (IP) against moisture and particulate matter, withstand extreme temperatures and endure high winds and other inclement weather. Such displays are not easily available or affordable through the rental marketplace. Rather, any client considering an outdoor display is advised to purchase a high-quality system, even though doing so will definitely require a significant budget.
A growing trend
Indeed, there is no shortage of opportunities for selling digital signage systems today. The new demand for rentals, however, should also be taken seriously. The trend is growing and will continue to do so. Not only is there increased demand for digital displays overall, but more and more people are seeing them show up as dynamic, engaging and immersive backdrops for special events, from auto shows to new product launches, and so they are coming to expect them at other events. And as mentioned, with the rental model, every client can use the newest, most innovative technologies available at any given moment.
David Weatherhead is president of APG Displays, which distributes video walls and other ultra-large-format digital displays, and APG Rentals, both based in Mississauga, Ont. For more information, visit www.apgdisplays.com and www.apgrents.com.
