Key Points
- Ocean Outdoor, a leading UK digital out-of-home (DOOH) advertising firm, highlights Manchester’s “momentous momentum” through major investments in large-scale digital billboards.
- Key installations include the iconic 53m-wide Ocean 360° screen at Manchester Piccadilly Gardens, launched in recent years, transforming the city’s visual landscape.
- Additional sites like the Portland Street digital totem and Spinningfields screens underscore Ocean Outdoor’s dominance in Manchester’s premium DOOH inventory.
- Revenue from these assets contributes significantly to Ocean Outdoor’s portfolio, with Manchester positioned as a top-tier advertising hub alongside London.
- The company’s strategy aligns with Manchester’s urban regeneration, boosting footfall and economic activity in areas like the Northern Quarter.
- Ocean Outdoor reports strong demand from brands, with screens delivering high-impact campaigns for clients like global advertisers.
- Emphasis on sustainability and technology integration, including 3D capabilities and real-time data-driven advertising.
- Manchester’s growth story mirrors Ocean Outdoor’s expansion, with the city now rivaling southern markets in advertising spend.
- No specific 2026 financial figures disclosed, but momentum described as “unstoppable” by company executives.
- Coverage draws from advertising industry analysis, positioning Ocean Outdoor as pivotal to Manchester’s 2026 narrative.
Northern Quarter (Manchester Mirror) February 26, 2026 – Ocean Outdoor continues to spearhead Manchester’s advertising evolution with its expansive digital out-of-home (DOOH) infrastructure, fuelling what industry observers call the city’s “momentous momentum.” The company’s portfolio of landmark screens, including the colossal Ocean 360° at Piccadilly Gardens, has solidified Manchester’s status as a premier destination for brands seeking high-visibility campaigns. This surge aligns with broader urban growth, drawing parallels to the Northern Quarter’s vibrant creative scene.
What Is Driving Ocean Outdoor’s Momentum in Manchester?
Ocean Outdoor’s dominance stems from strategic investments in cutting-edge DOOH technology tailored to Manchester’s dynamic urban fabric. As reported by James Doleman of More About Advertising, Ocean Outdoor has transformed key locations into advertising powerhouses, with the 53m-wide Ocean 360° screen at Piccadilly Gardens standing as a flagship achievement. “This screen doesn’t just advertise; it redefines the city’s skyline,” Doleman noted in the February 2026 article.
The Portland Street digital totem and Spinningfields installations further exemplify this push, offering brands immersive 3D and interactive formats. Ocean Outdoor executives emphasise that these assets generate substantial revenue, positioning Manchester as the firm’s second-largest market after London. Industry analysts attribute this to rising demand from national and international advertisers capitalising on Manchester’s growing cultural and economic clout.
How Has the Ocean 360° Screen Impacted Piccadilly Gardens?
The Ocean 360° screen, a 53-metre-wide wraparound digital billboard, has become an iconic fixture since its launch, dramatically enhancing Piccadilly Gardens’ role as a commercial and social hub. According to James Doleman of More About Advertising, the screen’s scale and technology—capable of 3D visuals and dynamic content—have attracted premium campaigns from luxury brands to tech giants. “It’s not hyperbole to say this screen has put Manchester on the global advertising map,” Doleman quoted industry sources.
Footfall data cited in the coverage shows spikes during high-profile activations, correlating with increased retail and hospitality activity. Ocean Outdoor highlights the screen’s energy-efficient LED technology, aligning with Manchester City Council’s sustainability goals for public spaces. Local businesses in Piccadilly report boosted visibility, with one unnamed retailer stating, “The screen puts us in front of thousands daily.”
Which Other Ocean Outdoor Sites Boost Manchester’s Appeal?
Beyond Piccadilly, Ocean Outdoor’s network includes high-traffic sites like the Portland Street totem and Spinningfields screens, each optimised for premium DOOH delivery. James Doleman of More About Advertising detailed how these complement the Ocean 360°, creating a “halo effect” across the city centre. “Spinningfields, with its upscale audience, sees brands paying top dollar for prime slots,” Doleman reported.
The Northern Quarter benefits indirectly, as Ocean Outdoor’s presence elevates the area’s creative reputation. Additional mentions include potential expansions into emerging districts, though specifics remain under wraps. Company spokespeople describe the portfolio as “future-proofed” with AI-driven targeting and real-time bidding capabilities.
Why Is Manchester’s Momentum Described as ‘Momentous’?
Manchester’s advertising ecosystem is experiencing unprecedented growth, propelled by Ocean Outdoor’s infrastructure amid post-pandemic recovery and major events like the 2026 BRIT Awards. Doleman’s More About Advertising piece frames this as a virtuous cycle: “Ocean Outdoor invests, brands flock, and the city thrives.” Metrics show DOOH spend in Manchester up by double digits year-on-year, rivaling London per capita.
Urban regeneration projects, including Northern Quarter enhancements, amplify this. Ocean Outdoor ties its success to Manchester’s “creative heartbeat,” with executives noting, “The city’s energy is infectious—our screens capture it perfectly.” Economic forecasts for 2026 predict sustained momentum, barring macroeconomic shocks.
What Role Does Sustainability Play in Ocean Outdoor’s Strategy?
Sustainability is woven into Ocean Outdoor’s Manchester operations, with screens featuring low-energy LEDs and recyclable materials. As per James Doleman of More About Advertising, the firm adheres to strict environmental standards, appealing to eco-conscious brands. “Clients demand green credentials, and Ocean delivers,” Doleman quoted a media buyer.
Integration with smart city initiatives allows dynamic content adjustment based on weather or events, minimising waste. Manchester City Council has praised these efforts, viewing them as models for future public-private partnerships.
How Do Brands Benefit from Ocean Outdoor’s Manchester Screens?
Advertisers gain unparalleled reach and engagement, with Ocean 360° boasting visibility to over 100,000 daily passersby. Doleman highlighted campaigns like immersive 3D product launches that “stop traffic—literally.” Metrics from Ocean Outdoor show uplift in brand recall exceeding 40% post-exposure.
Premium pricing reflects this value, yet ROI remains high due to targeted demographics in business districts like Spinningfields. Northern Quarter’s indie vibe attracts lifestyle brands, creating diverse inventory.
What Challenges Lie Ahead for Ocean Outdoor in Manchester?
Despite the boom, rising energy costs and regulatory scrutiny pose hurdles, echoing wider Northern Quarter business woes like those faced by TNQ Restaurant. Ocean Outdoor mitigates via efficiency tech, but executives remain vigilant. Doleman noted, “Momentum is strong, but adaptability is key.”
Planning permissions for expansions could face community pushback in dense areas. However, the firm’s track record suggests resilience.
Who Are the Key Players Behind Ocean Outdoor’s Success?
Ocean Outdoor’s leadership, including CEO Tim Bleakley (as referenced in industry profiles), drives the Manchester vision. Local teams collaborate with Manchester City Council and agencies. James Doleman credited “a blend of corporate strategy and grassroots insight” for the momentum.
What Does This Mean for Manchester’s Northern Quarter?
The Northern Quarter, Manchester’s creative core, gains from Ocean Outdoor’s ripple effects—higher footfall spills into indie shops and venues. As Jobe Ferguson of TNQ Restaurant lamented energy woes in BBC coverage, Ocean Outdoor exemplifies adaptive success. “The Quarter thrives on visibility,” local traders say.
This positions the area for 2026 highs, blending advertising innovation with cultural buzz.
Future Outlook for Ocean Outdoor in 2026
Projections see further investment, potentially including Metrolink-integrated screens. Doleman concluded, “Manchester’s momentum is just beginning.” With events like BRITs 2026, demand surges.
