Electronic Message Centers (EMCs) is the latest advertising tool for landlords to expose tenants to customers. Simply known as digital signage, landlords are replacing static pylon signs in many markets with EMCs. In addition, an EMC can be an income producer for landlords who charge a modest monthly fee to tenants to include a marketing message on the EMC.
EMCs’ advantages over static pylon signs are numerous. EMCs allow tenants to have real-time communication with potential customers. They attract attention through animation and brightness, so they increase awareness of tenants and their products. EMC displays are readable at farther distances, especially in poor lighting. Cycle time for messages and changes to messages (size, type, colors, etc.) are quick, simply by typing on a keyboard remotely.
High-quality EMCs are expensive, but returns can still be high. “We have a client that recently installed a two-sided EMC on the upper half of an existing pylon sign structure. The display cost $28,000, but the tenant fees more than covered the cost,” said Michael D. Sneden, Executive Vice President at ValueXpress. The center has 30 tenants, and each pays $50/month for digital placement, totaling $18,000 annually and providing a 65% rate of return!