News Summary
Scott Harkey, an advertising executive in Phoenix, is aggressively acquiring billboard operations, aiming to establish Harkey Media as the largest independent player in the out-of-home advertising sector. With investments exceeding $30 million in 2023, the company is focusing on major metropolitan areas and integrating innovative artwork into its advertising displays. This strategy reflects a commitment to community engagement while navigating the evolving landscape of outdoor advertising. Harkey’s initiatives also highlight crucial social issues, such as national park funding and political discourse in public spaces.
Phoenix – Scott Harkey, a prominent advertising executive based in Phoenix, is on an aggressive acquisition path to position his company, Harkey Media, as the largest independent out-of-home (OOH) advertising operator in the United States. With a significant financial backing of tens of millions of dollars, Harkey is rapidly transforming the landscape of outdoor advertising through strategic investments in existing billboard operations.
In 2023 alone, Harkey Media has made noteworthy strides by spending at least $30 million to acquire billboards from independent operators scattered across the country. The company is focusing its efforts on major metropolitan areas such as Phoenix, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York, with plans to expand into even more markets in the foreseeable future. Apart from acquiring existing billboards, Harkey Media is also involved in the construction of new billboard structures and the management of advertising assets for various partners, thus broadening its service portfolio.
Additionally, Harkey Media’s innovative approach to OOH advertising includes showcasing politically charged artwork, as evidenced by the recent billboard created by artist Karen Fiorito, which features a portrayal of former President Donald Trump. The billboard, located near Historic Grand Avenue in Phoenix, serves as a critique of Trump’s proposed policies and administration. Fiorito’s artwork incorporates a variety of symbols, including a sinking Cybertruck, a red swastika, and commentary addressing issues like budget cuts and immigration enforcement.
The location of this billboard is significant; Grand Avenue in Phoenix has a rich history of displaying political art, largely facilitated by local artist Beatrice Moore. This tradition continues with the ongoing efforts of community groups like More Perfect Union, which has funded various billboards in Phoenix and Tucson to raise awareness about the detrimental effects of federal budget cuts on national parks.
Focus on National Parks
One particularly striking billboard funded by More Perfect Union presents a postcard-style message informing the public about reduced visiting hours at Saguaro National Park due to budget constraints. The executive director of Friends of Saguaro National Park, Fred Stula, has pointed out the critical necessity of maintaining adequate funding for national parks, even though there was a temporary reinstatement of previously reduced visiting hours.
More Perfect Union asserts that, despite the recent financial hurdles, national parks are experiencing record visitation numbers. The group emphasizes the challenges that arise from insufficient budget allocations and staffing shortages, which severely affect the operation and maintenance of these vital natural resources.
Industry Response and Future Outlook
The out-of-home advertising sector is witnessing a dynamic shift as independent operators like Harkey Media capture a larger share of the market, leveraging their financial resources and strategic location choices. The acquisitions made by Harkey not only expand the company’s footprint but also set a competitive tone in the OOH advertising landscape, poised to challenge larger, established entities.
As Harkey Media continues to seek additional properties and expand its presence across key urban markets, the industry watches closely to see how this acquisition spree will shape the future of advertising. With a commitment to innovation and community engagement, Harkey’s venture may redefine the standards of OOH advertising and its impact on the communities in which it operates.
As the out-of-home advertising market evolves, it remains to be seen how Harkey Media will integrate its business objectives with the pressing issues surrounding public discourse and artistic expression, ultimately contributing to both commercial success and social awareness.
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Additional Resources
- ABC 15: Phoenix Ad Exec Has $100M War Chest for Acquiring Billboards
- Phoenix New Times: Phoenix Billboards Target Republican Lawmaker
- Calo News: Anti-Trump Billboard in Phoenix
- Wikipedia: Outdoor Advertising
- AZ Family: Arizona Billboards Call Out Doge Cuts
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Advertisement
- Fox 10 Phoenix: Missing America Network Uses Billboards
- Google Search: Billboard Advertising
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
