Digital ad revenue hit record high

U.S. Digital advertising revenue soared 22 percent in 2011, reaching a record high of US$31 billion, according to a report prepared by PricewaterhouseCoopers and released by the Interactive Advertising Bureau, paidContent reported.

Search revenues had nearly half of the share at $14.8 billion, with a 27 percent increase.

Display advertising accounted for $11.1 billion, up 15 percent on the year. One component, digital video increased by 29 percent to $1.8 billion.


The report also highlighted that mobile advertising spiked 149 percent to $1.6 billion.

"Clearly mobile has become a key category," said David Silverman of PricewaterhouseCoopers, the Los Angeles Times reported.

“Pushing past the $30 billion barrier, the interactive advertising industry confirms its central place in media. Across search, display, digital video, digital provides a wealth of opportunity for brands and consumers. With the proliferation of smartphones and tablets, it is likely that the tremendous growth in mobile will continue as these screens become even more crucial to the marketing mix,” said Randall Rothenberg, president and CEO of IAB, BusinessWire reported.

Rothernberg also commented it is indicative of an increased awareness from advertisers that they need to reach consumers where they are spending their time in digital media.

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