ShelfTalk Really Talks Now

News America Marketing is giving voice to in-store displays with “audible ink.”

The company’s SmartSource ShelfTalk and FloorTalk display vehicles have added AudioInk that lets shoppers hear a message when they touch the display.

Conductive ink is used to print shelf and floor ads; when shoppers touch an ad, it relays a signal (normally carried by traditional wiring) that activates an audio message. One ad can carry multiple messages to target different shoppers.

“Because the electronics are actually printed, it’s a remarkably durable and cost-efficient way to get the customer’s attention in the aisle,” said Executive VP-marketing Jesse Aversano in a statement.

SmartSource works with specialty printer t-ink, Inc., New York City, which uses traditional printing methods to print circuits directly on paper.

First work hits stores in spring 2005.