Proximity Marketing
You know the next big thing is mobile marketing. So, start your “layers” now. Keep your eye on a hot new mobile app called Layar (the “ar” refers to “augmented reality.”). Layar offers the user geo-sensitive layers of commercial information laid over whatever the phone’s camera shows. For example, a curbside viewer could point a phone camera at a home and find its sale price. Or, a store could beam out special offers, events or store hours to viewers standing out front. Talk about relevant marketing: A Starbucks across the street could lure you in with a coupon on a mocha venti.
These services are starting to propagate mostly in major metro markets. While you may not spend budget on this now, you’ll want to have it firmly on your radar screen as soon as possible. So, when the time comes, you’ll be well versed in this intriguing, new marketing vehicle. LC
