Bitcoin settles billboard campaign deal in Christchurch, NZ

A cryptocurrency transaction has been used to pay for a billboard campaign in New Zealand, with Localcoin ATM settling its latest deal with Jolly Billboards in Bitcoin.

The collaboration marks one of the first instances in New Zealand where out-of-home advertising has been paid for using cryptocurrency, underlining the growing intersection between digital assets and traditional business transactions.

Billboard campaign in Christchurch

Localcoin ATM, a provider operating a network of physical cryptocurrency ATMs, partnered with Jolly Billboards for the new campaign in Christchurch. Payment for the advertising, specifically on Jolly's digital CH-D6 site located on the corner of Main South Road and Springs Road in Wigram, was made entirely in Bitcoin. The site is known for its high profile and long dwell times amongst commuters, providing extended visibility for both the ATM network and cryptocurrency's place in daily transactions.

According to the companies, the billboard campaign is designed to drive awareness of Localcoin ATM's nearby BP ATM location, aiming to encourage traffic from passing motorists to use its cryptocurrency services. The billboard's strategic location on one of Christchurch's busiest commuter routes was a key reason for its selection.

Localcoin ATM's accessibility mission

Localcoin ATM operates over 100 physical ATMs across New Zealand and a global presence. Its stated mission is to make cryptocurrency more accessible and integrated into everyday life. Philip Plotnicki, Marketing Manager at Localcoin ATM, outlined the company's outlook on this development.

"We're not just providing access to digital currency," said Philip Plotnicki, Marketing Manager at Localcoin ATM. "We're helping bring it into the mainstream. Working with Jolly Billboards made perfect sense. They're fast, flexible, and forward-thinking. The process was seamless, and we're looking forward to building on the Advertising partnership."

Plotnicki's comments emphasise the company's focus on reducing barriers to cryptocurrency adoption and fostering partnerships that can enable a broader cultural shift towards mainstream acceptance of digital currencies.

Media buying and payment methods

The payment for the billboard using Bitcoin suggests the possible future role cryptocurrency may play not just in consumer retail but also within more established sectors such as media buying. Traditionally, billboard advertising has operated through conventional invoicing and fiat currency settlements. This transaction, however, signifies experimentation by both companies with alternative payment systems.

Jolly Billboards' perspective

Jolly Billboards, which has established a network of digital and classic billboard sites across New Zealand, expressed optimism about the new method of transaction. Jonathon Drumm, General Manager of Jolly Billboards, described the experience and his views on its potential impact within the media industry.

"Localcoin ATM have an incredibly future-focused model, and their proactive approach made this campaign happen in minutes. We're excited to be part of something that could shape how media is actually transacted one to one in the years to come."

He also alluded to the possibility of the billboard firm itself exploring crypto possibilities, joking: "Is there a Jolly coin in the works? Let's just say we have our top men working on it."

Changing landscape

As cryptocurrency adoption accelerates worldwide, examples of its use in large-scale or traditional settings are likely to increase. In this instance, the billboard industry, seen as a fixture of the conventional advertising sector, has provided a platform for exploring new payment methods. Both Localcoin ATM and Jolly Billboards indicated they see this as a sign of things to come, rather than a one-off event.

Recent years have seen a growing number of businesses across industries, from retail to real estate, exploring cryptocurrency as a payment option, motivated by the promise of faster settlements and greater flexibility. The companies involved in this transaction suggested that the adoption of digital currencies in out-of-home advertising may pave the way for further experimentation in media and beyond.