Get Ready to be Blinded by Science: Understanding the Technology Behind Hockey Arena Ads


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Get ready to step into the world of arena advertising and be amazed by the technology that brings those ads to life. From static to dynamic, the evolution of arena ads has been nothing short of revolutionary. In this article, we’ll explore the cutting-edge technology behind hockey arena ads and how it works to bring the rink to life.

Behind the seemingly simple and straightforward arena ads are intricate systems and technologies that make it all possible. From LED display technology to control systems and revenue sharing, there’s a lot to uncover. So, let’s dive in and get ready to be blinded by science!

The Evolution of Arena Advertising

From simple static boards to fully immersive experiences, arena advertising has come a long way. In the early days, hockey rink boards were adorned with simple ads that were manually switched out between periods. However, over time, advancements in technology have allowed for more dynamic, engaging ads that can capture the attention of fans like never before.

Static to Dynamic

One of the biggest changes in arena advertising has been the move from static ads to more dynamic, engaging displays. Today, LED display technology allows for high-definition, moving ads that can change in real-time, keeping fans engaged throughout the game. This shift has revolutionized the way brands advertise in arenas, allowing for more immersive experiences that are not only visually stunning but also create a lasting impression on fans.

Revenue Sharing

  • As arena advertising has evolved, so too has the way revenue is shared between teams and advertisers. In the past, teams would sell advertising space directly to brands, keeping all the revenue for themselves. However, today, most teams work with advertising agencies that sell ad space on their behalf and take a cut of the revenue.
  • This shift has allowed teams to focus on what they do best – playing hockey – while still generating revenue from advertising. It has also made it easier for brands to advertise in arenas, as they can work with a single agency to place ads in multiple venues.
  • Overall, revenue sharing has been a win-win for both teams and advertisers, allowing for more efficient use of resources and greater revenue generation.

Control Systems

Behind every arena ad is a sophisticated control system that manages the display of ads in real-time. These systems use sensors and other technologies to detect the position of the puck, the time left in the period, and other game-related information to trigger the display of relevant ads.

Control systems also allow teams to manage the display of ads from a central location, making it easy to switch out ads between periods or even between games. This makes it possible for teams to sell ad space on a per-game or per-event basis, providing greater flexibility and customization for advertisers.

In conclusion, the evolution of arena advertising has been nothing short of remarkable. From simple static boards to fully immersive, dynamic displays, arena advertising has come a long way over the years. By leveraging the latest in LED display technology, control systems, and revenue sharing, teams and advertisers alike can create engaging, memorable experiences that capture the attention of fans and leave a lasting impression.

From Static to Dynamic: Types of Arena Ads

Arena advertising has come a long way since the days of simple static banners. With the advancement of technology, advertisers can now create dynamic and interactive ads that engage audiences in new and exciting ways. These ads not only capture attention but also provide a unique branding experience for the advertiser. Let’s explore the different types of arena ads that are available today.

Static Ads: Static ads are the simplest form of arena advertising. They consist of static images or banners that are displayed on the arena boards or in the arena concourse. Although they are not as dynamic as other forms of ads, they are still effective in capturing the attention of the audience. They are ideal for promoting brand awareness or showcasing a product or service.

LED Ads:

  • LED ads are becoming increasingly popular in arena advertising. They consist of a series of LED lights that create moving images or animations. These ads are highly visible and can be customized to fit the specific needs of the advertiser. They are ideal for promoting a new product or service or for creating brand awareness.
  • LED ads are also popular for creating a unique game-day experience for the audience. They can be used to display scores, replays, or even interactive games that engage the audience and keep them entertained throughout the game.

Virtual Ads:

Virtual ads are a newer form of arena advertising that uses augmented reality (AR) technology to create dynamic and interactive ads. These ads are projected onto the ice or court and can be seen by the audience both in the arena and on television. Virtual ads are highly customizable and can be tailored to fit the specific needs of the advertiser.

  • Virtual ads are ideal for creating a unique and memorable branding experience for the audience. They can be used to showcase a new product or service or to create a highly engaging and interactive game-day experience.
  • Virtual ads are also highly effective for creating brand awareness. They are highly visible and can be seen by millions of viewers on television.

From static to dynamic, the evolution of arena advertising has opened up a whole new world of possibilities for advertisers. By choosing the right type of ad, advertisers can create a unique and engaging experience for the audience that not only captures attention but also leaves a lasting impression.

Lighting up the Ice: LED Display Technology

When it comes to sports, the importance of visual display cannot be overstated. LED displays have become the standard for most sports arenas due to their dynamic capabilities and ability to create immersive experiences. From video replays to sponsor advertisements, LED displays have revolutionized the way we view sports events.

One of the most significant benefits of LED display technology is the flexibility it provides to venue managers. Rather than relying on fixed, static advertising, LED displays can be programmed to display multiple advertisements, messages, and promotions simultaneously. This allows for more efficient use of space and a more engaging experience for spectators.

The Benefits of LED Displays in Sports Arenas

  • Dynamic Capabilities: LED displays can be programmed to display a wide range of content, including video replays, live updates, sponsor advertisements, and more.
  • Improved Engagement: With the ability to display multiple messages at once, LED displays can create a more immersive experience for spectators, leading to increased engagement and a higher likelihood of return visits.
  • Cost-effective: LED displays are energy-efficient and require minimal maintenance, making them a cost-effective solution for sports venues looking to upgrade their visual displays.

The Future of LED Display Technology in Sports

The future of LED display technology in sports is bright. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more advanced displays that are capable of creating even more immersive experiences for sports fans. From augmented reality to interactive displays, the possibilities are endless.

As venues continue to look for ways to stand out and create unique experiences for their audiences, LED display technology will continue to be a critical component of the modern sports arena. Whether you’re watching hockey, basketball, football, or any other sport, LED displays will continue to light up the ice and bring the game to life like never before.

Behind the Scenes: Control Systems for Arena Ads

When you see those flashy arena ads during a game or concert, have you ever wondered how they work? It all comes down to the control systems that manage and display the content on the screens. These systems are incredibly complex and require skilled technicians to operate them.

There are two main types of control systems for arena ads: centralized and distributed. Centralized systems are managed from a single location, usually in a control room, and use a network of cables to connect the screens. Distributed systems, on the other hand, are designed for more flexibility and use wireless connections to communicate with the screens.

Centralized Control Systems

  • A centralized control system is ideal for large venues with multiple screens, such as a stadium or arena.
  • The system can be managed from a single location, making it easier to coordinate the content across all screens.
  • The system uses a network of cables to connect the screens, which can be more reliable than wireless connections.

Distributed Control Systems

Distributed control systems are becoming increasingly popular in smaller venues or events where there are fewer screens to manage. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Distributed systems use wireless connections to communicate with the screens, which can make them more flexible and easier to set up.
  • They are often more cost-effective than centralized systems, making them a popular choice for smaller events.
  • Distributed systems can also be used for interactive experiences, allowing the audience to engage with the content in real-time.

Overall, the control system is an integral part of any arena ad display. It’s important to choose the right system for your venue or event to ensure that the content is displayed correctly and efficiently.

Who’s Behind the Ads? Sponsorship and Revenue Sharing

The world of sports sponsorship is a complex web of relationships that can be difficult to navigate. From the companies that sponsor teams and events, to the leagues and organizations that control access to those sponsorships, there are a lot of moving parts to keep track of. In the case of arena ads, there are even more players involved, including the teams and venues that host the events, the ad agencies that create the campaigns, and the technology companies that provide the display systems. To make sense of it all, it’s important to understand the basics of how sponsorship and revenue sharing work in the world of sports advertising.

At its most basic level, sports sponsorship involves a company paying money to associate its brand with a particular team, league, or event. In return, the company receives various forms of advertising exposure, such as having its logo displayed on jerseys, billboards, and other signage at the venue. In many cases, the team or event organizers will also provide additional promotional opportunities, such as player appearances or social media mentions, as part of the sponsorship package. Revenue sharing, on the other hand, involves the parties involved in an advertising deal splitting the profits generated from the sale of ad space. The specifics of revenue sharing agreements can vary widely depending on the nature of the deal, but typically involve the team or venue taking a percentage of the revenue generated by the ads, with the rest going to the ad agency or technology provider.

Types of Sponsors

There are many different types of sponsors in the sports world, each with their own motivations and goals. Some companies are looking to build brand awareness and goodwill among fans, while others are hoping to drive sales or boost their overall image. Some sponsors are highly visible, such as those with logo placements on jerseys or stadium signage, while others may be less visible but still play an important role behind the scenes. Here are a few examples of different types of sports sponsors:

  • Official Sponsors: These companies have exclusive rights to certain promotional opportunities, such as being the official energy drink or credit card of a particular team or league.
  • Product Sponsors: These companies pay to have their products prominently featured in advertising or promotional materials, such as a shoe company sponsoring a player’s footwear.
  • Philanthropic Sponsors: Some companies sponsor sports events as part of their corporate social responsibility efforts, or to support charitable causes that align with their brand values.

Challenges of Arena Ads

While arena ads can be a valuable source of revenue for teams and venues, they also present some unique challenges. One of the biggest challenges is balancing the needs of sponsors with the desires of fans and the overall fan experience. No one wants to attend a game or event where the ads are so overwhelming that they detract from the action on the field or court. Another challenge is keeping up with the ever-evolving world of digital advertising, which requires staying on top of the latest technology and trends in order to deliver a compelling, effective campaign.

In the end, successful arena ads require a careful balancing act between the needs and goals of sponsors, the desires and expectations of fans, and the technology and resources available to bring it all together. By understanding the basics of sports sponsorship and revenue sharing, and staying up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices, teams and venues can create effective, engaging arena ad campaigns that benefit everyone involved.

Where Next? The Future of Arena Advertising

The world of advertising is constantly evolving, and arena advertising is no exception. As technology advances and consumer behavior changes, advertisers are always looking for new and innovative ways to reach their target audience. So, where is arena advertising headed in the future?

One thing is for sure: digital advertising is becoming increasingly prevalent in the arena. Digital signage, LED displays, and interactive experiences are just a few examples of the digital advertising tools that are being used in arenas today. As more fans look to their smartphones during events, advertisers are also exploring ways to integrate mobile advertising into their campaigns.

Virtual and Augmented Reality

  • Virtual and augmented reality technology is becoming more accessible and affordable, and it has the potential to transform the arena advertising landscape. Advertisers can create immersive experiences that allow fans to interact with their brand in a completely new way. For example, a car manufacturer could create a virtual reality experience that lets fans test drive their latest model.
  • Augmented reality, which overlays digital information on the real world, is also gaining traction in the arena. Advertisers could use this technology to create interactive experiences that enhance the fan experience. For example, an airline could use augmented reality to create a virtual tour of their newest plane.

Data-Driven Advertising

Data-driven advertising is already a major trend in the advertising industry, and it is only going to become more important in the arena. By analyzing fan data, advertisers can create more targeted and personalized campaigns that resonate with their audience.

For example, if a team knows that a certain percentage of their fans are families with young children, they could create an advertising campaign that highlights family-friendly activities and experiences. This type of targeted advertising is more likely to be effective than a generic campaign that tries to appeal to everyone.

Environmental Responsibility

As consumers become more environmentally conscious, advertisers are also looking for ways to reduce their impact on the planet. In the arena, this could mean using sustainable materials for advertising displays, or creating campaigns that promote eco-friendly products and services.

For example, a sports apparel company could create an advertising campaign that highlights their use of recycled materials in their products. This type of messaging not only resonates with environmentally conscious fans, but it also positions the brand as a responsible and socially aware company.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do advertisers choose which arenas to place their ads in?

Advertisers choose arenas based on a variety of factors, including the size of the arena and its location. Major metropolitan areas are popular choices because of the large number of potential viewers. Additionally, arenas that host professional teams with loyal fan bases are attractive because of the opportunity to reach a dedicated audience.

What types of ads are typically displayed in hockey arenas?

Hockey arena ads come in many forms, including on-ice ads, scoreboard ads, digital display ads, and even ads on the back of seats. Companies often opt for ads with bold designs and colors that will stand out in the arena’s busy environment. Popular industries for arena advertising include automotive, finance, and technology.

How are the prices for arena advertising determined?

The prices for arena advertising can vary widely based on factors such as the size and location of the ad, the length of time the ad will be displayed, and the popularity of the team and arena. Advertisers can work with arena management to determine the best placement for their ad and negotiate a price based on the desired exposure.

Are there any restrictions on the content of arena ads?

Yes, there are typically restrictions on the content of arena ads to ensure they are appropriate for all ages and do not offend fans or players. In addition, there may be restrictions on the size and placement of certain types of ads, such as on-ice ads. Advertisers must work with arena management to ensure their ads meet all guidelines and restrictions.

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