Reviving Britain's High Street : The urgent call to action for Out of Home Advertising

The high street is more than just bricks and mortar; it's the nation's pulse. Stepping onto any high street, big or small, you immediately sense its vitality and prosperity, gaining insight into local and national dynamics.

High streets are invaluable mirrors reflecting both successes and failures. Unfortunately, UK high streets have long been ailing and are now in critical condition. Reviving Britain's high streets has become a pressing mission.

The mass exodus of major retailers and banks has left behind vast swaths of unoccupied, once-grand historical buildings. Established businesses are closing down, and new ventures are prematurely shuttering. Even those remaining face fierce competition, questioning their viability.

This decline in once-proud hubs touches every aspect of society, posing a genuine crisis. For the Out of Home (OOH) advertising industry, declining high streets present an existential threat.

Our industry thrives on vibrant streets teeming with life and commerce. However, as audiences dwindle, so does our impact. Now, more than ever, the OOH industry must rally behind high streets, offering innovation and support to businesses and encourage visits.

We must engage in discussions to protect and promote high streets as vital commercial and social spaces. Drawing on our insights and expertise, we can develop new screen-based offerings and leverage our skills in technology and operational excellence to enhance high streets.

Let's explore, collaborate, and implement new approaches to support businesses and services on the high street. Most importantly, let's demonstrate our commitment to local communities by driving commercial revenue and caring deeply about their well-being.

The high street is our future, and we have the power to lead its evolution. Let's mobilise, as our industry's fate is intertwined with the high street's vitality.