Unwrapping Holiday Trends and OOH Advertising in Tampa Bay

Exploring Tampa Bay’s Holiday Trends and Out-of-Home Advertising

The vibrant Tampa Bay area is Florida’s best-kept secret. Surprised? Don’t be! You may have a preconceived idea of what the region used to be—sleepy, quaint, and laid-back. This perception couldn’t be farther from the truth. Below, we’ll quickly bring you up to speed on one of Florida’s fastest-growing areas. And explain why the holidays are the perfect time of the year to put your brands in front of audiences across the region with Ballyhoo Media’s unique out-of-home advertising.

Tampa Bay Today

The Tampa Bay metropolitan area includes cities like Tampa, St. Petersburg, St. Pete Beach, and Clearwater. It is the 17th largest metro area in the US. Brands and advertising agencies should be aware that within the last year, the region led the State in buying power, retail sales, food sales, and bank deposits. It has the largest consumer market in Florida.

The region has undoubtedly outgrown its “Sleepy Town” reputation. In the present day, its local cities host lively events, including Gasparilla, Florida’s largest Pride celebration, the Firestone GrandPrix, and so much more. It’s also home to major sporting organizations like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Tampa Bay Rays, and the Tampa Bay Lightning.

The Tampa Bay Charm

Each city within the Tampa Bay region has a unique appeal and charm that attracts tourists from near and far. Did you know St. Petersburg holds the Guinness World Record for the most consecutive days of sunshine with an impressive 768 day-stretch? The “Sunshine City” is a vibrant, close-knit arts and culture community home to world-famous museums and independent galleries. It is consistently ranked as a top arts and culture destination among cities its size. Moreover, St. Pete Beach, not to be confused with St. Petersburg, was named by Forbes among its “Best Places to Travel in the US” for 2023. TripAdvisor also named it the #1 beach in the US for 2021. To further showcase how significant this region is, Clearwater was ranked #6 on TripAdvisor’s list of “Top Trending Destinations in the US” for 2022.

Advertisers will be glad to know that the Tampa Bay region has a little something for everyone. As a state treasure, it’s known for being a perfect fusion of thrills, culture, and relaxation! Whether that means visiting the theme parks in Tampa, dining on the St. Pete Pier, or laying out on the sandy Clearwater beach– Ballyhoo Media knows precisely how to target locals and tourists in the area.

OOH Done Different

The Tampa Bay region has hundreds of billboards that offer traditional and digital outdoor advertising. But why blend in when you can make waves? Ballyhoo Media is the only water-based media agency operating along the coast, earning millions of impressions. Our dynamic platforms have the longest dwell times in the industry, leaving target audiences with a lasting impression. With the waterways being a big draw to the area, we’re the experts in standing out in a sea of competition!

Unveiling Tampa Bay’s Vibrant Holiday Spending Habits

As the season approaches, Tampa Bay’s spending habits take a spirited turn. From the cheerful streets of St. Petersburg, adorned with twinkling lights and bustling with holiday markets, to Clearwater’s coastal charm enhanced by seasonal events, the region embodies a captivating blend of celebration and community. The shopping culture thrives, drawing in tourists seeking unique finds and fostering a strong sense of local support. Initiatives like the Shop Local Movement and the Keep St. Pete Local take center stage, boasting over 700 local businesses and encouraging residents to invest in their community while satisfying their needs.

The Tampa Bay area averages about $2.1 billion from restaurants and about $820K from retail annually. According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), Americans spend approximately $1,000 on Christmas. From that budget, roughly 70% of it goes directly toward gifts. As the holiday season quickly approaches, more people begin gift planning and researching retail sales ads.

Why is this important? Insight into shopping trends can help when planning the type of OOH advertising that is most effective for your target audience. According to the OAAA Harris Poll for holiday shopping intent, 78% of consumers agree that OOH ads are useful.

And let’s not forget the snowbirds that return to Tampa Bay during the holiday season. The population is estimated to be 5% higher in winter due to snowbirds, with Clearwater being one of the more popular destinations. In 2019, it’s estimated these visitors made a $95 billion impact on the Florida economy. It goes to show – that putting brands in front of audiences along the coast can make a significant impact during the holiday season.

Let’s get to work – Advertising in Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay’s dynamic transformation from its once sleepy reputation to a bustling, diverse metropolis is a testament to its thriving economy and vibrant cultural scene. Ballyhoo Media’s innovative approach to out-of-home advertising, particularly its distinctive water-based platforms, stands out in a sea of traditional billboards, allowing advertisers to connect with a diverse and engaged audience.

In essence, Tampa Bay is not just a geographical location; it’s where culture, commerce, and community intersect. Advertisers tapping into the Tampa Bay area’s unique charm and spending habits have the chance to create lasting impressions and foster connections with an audience that appreciates innovation and local authenticity. As we navigate the exciting landscape of Tampa Bay, Ballyhoo Media’s innovative OOH advertising creates a compelling narrative for brands seeking to make waves in this vibrant market.