The platform allows advertisers to tailor their promotional messages to real-time conditions such as local weather, location and time, generating content that is truly relevant to the consumer.
Development of Open Messenger began three years ago by Michael Smith, Director of Open Magazine, based in the Baltic Triangle.
Michael Smith, Director of Open Messenger, said:
“Liverpool is spearheading digital development in the North and we’re delighted to be launching our smart advertising platform in our home city.
“We’ve seen this advertising medium work exceptionally well in London – it’s now time to unveil it to Liverpool and the rest of the UK. We’ve already been approached by a number of household names, all of which are looking to take advantage of this new outdoor medium.
“Hackney cab drivers operating an Open Messenger vehicle will also be incentivised with a supplementary income for carrying this digital platform. We can’t wait to get on the road!”
The new service, the first outside of London, has been accepted by Liverpool City Council and will have over 50 cars in operation across Liverpool by the end of the year.
Joe Anderson, Mayor of Liverpool, said:
“I’m delighted to welcome Open Messenger to our city. The digital and creative sector is vital to the economic development of Liverpool and the wider city region, which is why I am so glad we are one of the first cities outside of London to use this pioneering advertising platform.
“This great innovation from Open Messenger will bring a much needed boost to local businesses as well as the Liverpool Black Hackneys.”
Open Messenger’s LCD screens interact with 4G data and cloud-based content to broadcast interactive messages wherever they are needed. Within each cab, passengers can also access a free Wi-Fi service and recharge a mobile device or tablet from the vehicle’s complimentary facilities.
Open Messenger will roll out across the UK following its launch in Liverpool with more cities expected to follow suit before the end of the year.
