Five Ways OOH Can Drive Traffic and Fuel Sales for Auto Retailers…Even in Uncertain Times!

Intense competition among auto retailers is nothing new. But few things up the ante like uncertainty in the marketplace. Now, it’s more important than ever for auto retailers to leverage Clear Channel’s innovative Out-of-Home (OOH) advertising solutions that are proven to drive foot traffic to dealerships, fuel online action and power sales.

Here are five ways auto dealerships can harness the power of OOH advertising to drive measurable outcomes:

1. Utilize the Power of Digital Out-of-Home

OOH advertising is more than just putting a message in front of potential vehicle-buyers. It’s also about strategically reaching them, via a trusted medium, at the moment they’re in the market to buy a car, truck, or SUV. That makes Digital Out-of-Home (DOOH) a perfect vehicle for auto retailers. DOOH provides quick-change technology allowing real-time promotion of time-sensitive offers and the ability to update those offers quickly when marketing strategies shift. In addition, DOOH accommodates myriad creative executions to showcase inventory in unique ways, and the ability to tailor messages to specific audiences to drive awareness and action.

2. Direct Them to Where You Are

OOH has proven to be a powerful tool in driving consumer action and shaping purchase decisions. For example, an ad campaign leveraging OOH resulted in an 83% lift in auto retailer visits by consumers who were exposed to the OOH ads. (Click here for more case study details.) Auto retailers can capitalize on the strategic advantages of billboard advertising to create a lasting impression and guide potential buyers directly to their showroom.

3. Show Them WHO You Are

Because OOH lives where consumers live, it provides a tangible presence that’s nearly impossible for them to ignore. Auto retailers can use those benefits to great advantage by creating billboard ads reflecting the dealership’s unique personality, letting the community know you operate in their neighborhood, and that your team is friendly and ready to serve.

4. Cut Through the Clutter

Clever creative in OOH advertising can deliver greater impact, making ads more memorable with the potential to be shared across social media. Auto retailers can maximize the creative potential of OOH with campaigns rich in pops of color, smart copy, and larger-than-life extensions, embellishments, lighting effects and more. For marketers in need of inspiration, Clear Channel’s creative services team are OOH specialists adept at turning brand messages into bold impactful visuals that grab attention and drive engagement.

5. Let OOH Drive Consumers to your Website

Over 70% of vehicle purchasers primarily use their smartphones to research vehicles, compare models, read reviews, and even schedule a test drive. With 76% of adults taking action on their mobile devices after exposure to an OOH campaign, billboard advertising provides a tremendous opportunity for auto retailers to drive consumers to their website when they’re weighing car-buying options or ready to make a purchase.

Click here for more information on how Clear Channel Outdoor can help steer your dealership to success!

^{Sources: Cuebiq, 2021; Porch Media Group, 2025; OAAA, Morning Consult, 2022}