BT And Global Unite To Modernize UK Street Furniture In A Decade-Long Digital Leap

In a significant development announced on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, BT and Global, the Media & Entertainment Group, have embarked on a 10-year partnership aimed at transforming the UK's communication landscape. This collaboration will see the upgrade of the nation's legacy payphones into digital hubs, enhancing connectivity and offering hyper-local advertising opportunities in over 200 towns and cities across the UK. Furthermore, Global will maintain its role in managing street furniture advertising sales for BT for the next decade.

BT Group's extensive street furniture estate includes traditional payphones, ATMs, and Street Hubs. These digital units not only provide public Wi-Fi and live local communication but some also boost EE's mobile network with 4G and 5G connectivity. The partnership plans to convert up to 2,000 conventional BT payphones into modern Street Hubs from 2025 onwards. Additionally, Global will handle the advertising on BT's existing 959 Street Hubs.

Street Hub 2 units offer secure connectivity with speeds up to 1Gbps within a 150-metre radius. Features include a dedicated 999 calling button, USB ports for free device charging, and touch-screen tablets that display real-time public information. These hubs also support digital street-level advertising for businesses, significantly expanding outdoor advertising opportunities.

BT's Street Hubs are an integral part of Global's digital roadside advertising estate, offering extensive reach for outdoor ad campaigns. Advertisers can also purchase space programmatically via DAX, Global's digital advertising exchange known for its advanced targeting and measurement tools. Additionally, Global will continue to share content from LBC on the BT screens, keeping local communities informed.

Bas Burger, CEO - Business at BT, highlighted the iconic status of BT's payphones in the UK and noted that this initiative marks a step towards future communication methods. With almost 1,000 digital Street Hubs already in place, this partnership aims to significantly increase their number over the next decade.

Stephen Miron, Global's Group CEO, expressed enthusiasm about continuing the partnership with BT. He emphasized the attractiveness of Street Hubs to advertisers due to their prominent locations across major UK streets. The collaboration between BT and Global is set to introduce innovative advertising solutions and expand the Street Hub network substantially.

About BT Group: As the UK’s leading provider of fixed and mobile telecommunications along with related secure digital products, solutions, and services, BT Group plays a pivotal role in connecting individuals, businesses, and public services both domestically and internationally. The group comprises three customer-facing units: Consumer, Business, and Openreach. British Telecommunications plc is a wholly owned subsidiary of BT Group plc, which is listed on the London Stock Exchange. For more details on BT Group’s operations and services, visit their official website.