Out-of-Home Advertising from Past to PresentThe first known Out-Of-Home (OOH) advertisement was likely created by Egyptians, who utilised towering stone obelisks to inform the public of treaties and laws. Since then, the evolution of outdoor advertising has been nothing short of thrilling. So, let's embark on a journey from past to present and explore how far it’s come.

The History of OOH

In the 1400s, with the invention of the printing press, the first handbills may have emerged. By the late 1700s, eye-catching illustrations began to appear. In 1835, it is believed that Barnum & Bailey Circus released what could be the world’s very first billboard. Soon after that, more billboards began adorning skylines worldwide, displaying bold and captivating imagery from various brands.

The famous US Army recruitment poster, printed in 1917 featuring Uncle Sam.

Columbus Circle, Manhattan in 1938, featuring an outdoor Coca-Cola ad.

Sydney, Australia in 1950, featuring an outdoor Kodak film ad.

LANDMARK OOH ADS

Billboards have evolved into cultural icons in their own right. Consider the legendary Glico running man billboard in Osaka, Japan, erected in 1935. It has become a symbol of the city’s vibrant energy and a popular spot for tourists to capture photos. Similarly, places like Piccadilly Circus in London, UK, and Times Square in New York City, US, have also gained a reputation for their brilliant OOH ads.

Since 1935, the Glico running man has become a hotspot for tourists and locals alike.

The ad-filled scenes of Times Square, with its first outdoor ad tracing back to 1904.

The first Piccadilly Circus OOH ad aired in 1908 in the UK. Today, it’s a landmark for some of the world’s best outdoor ads.

A Revolutionary Form of Advertising

As technology progresses, OOH ads are embracing the cutting edge with 3D billboards. These dynamic displays don't just sit idly by; they leap into action, creating a spectacle that demands our attention. It completely transforms any urban landscape into a creative playground, revolutionising advertising with eye-catching displays.

The Future of Outdoor Advertising

Lastly, we have Augmented Reality (AR) - it’s captivating and absolutely mind-boggling. It immerses its audience into a world of fantasy, creating a false universe with engaging content that feels almost as real as life. These ads redefine how we view our real world in the way it seamlessly interacts with us and our surroundings.

Conclusion

The world of outdoor advertising has seen tremendous changes throughout its lifetime. And with it, only one thing is for sure; it’s only set to get even better. So, the question is, are you ready to evolve with the new era of OOH advertising?