WEB ADVERTISERS THREATENED BY AD-NUKING SOFTWARE
The Internet advertising community is being challenged by a slew of new Web software suites that block Web ads from appearing on the user’s screen. The popularity of ad-blocking software like At Guard, Internet Junkbuster Proxy, Intermute and Web Washer is raising concerns among Web site operators who rely on ads as their primary revenue source. Web advertisers liken the situation to that of television: If users want free Web content, they reason, they’ll have to put up with advertising, just as they do with TV. By next year, one industry pundit expects banners to generate $4.4 billion a year in Web advertising revenue – provided tools like the ad-blocking programs are not widely adopted. However, anti-ad software producers, including Siemens AG, the German company that publishes Web Washer, say sales are on the rise. Siemens estimates a million people have been using the program since its release in December.
TRANSCONTINENTAL DEBUTS DIGITAL AD-BAG
GTC Transcontinental Group and Bell Actimedia are teaming up to take Ad-Bag – Transcontinental’s direct mail co-op coupon program – online. The Montreal-based duo recently inked a deal to create an electronic Ad-Bag at Adbag.ca (Publisac.ca in French). The electronic ‘pre-shopping’ site, to launch in the fall, will offer consumers personalized discount coupons, promotions, sales and new items from local or national retailers and advertisers. Transcontinental, Canada’s second-largest commercial printer, is in charge of developing the content, while Bell ActiMedia will provide communications solutions and develop closer relations with customers, according to the companies.
NEW SOFTWARE ALLOWS RETAILERS TO BETTER MANAGE PROMOS
Retail promotions company Connect3 Systems has upgraded its software with a Web-enabled advertising production solution. Connect3 software allows retailers to automate the management and ‘versioning’ of retail promotions by integrating the advertising, merchandising and information technology departments that are typically involved in retail promotions projects. Promotional data, including copy, images, product usage histories, pricing, markets, and product grouping, are stored and managed by the software. Retailers have direct access to their advertising content and performance data through any browser.
T.O. RADIO STATION WALKS THIN EDGE OF MP3 WEDGE
Microsoft Canada and Toronto radio station Edge 102 have partnered to allow Net surfers to download recordings from the 1999 Canadian New Rock Search talent contest. The online showcase of downloadable songs can be played directly from listeners’ personal computers using the Microsoft Windows Media Player or one of several third-party players such as WinAmp. In order to download music, users must register with Edge 102 – data will be distributed to the 17 New Rock Search bands from across Canada to increase their fan base, communicate with fans and promote future albums.
