SmartNews launches store visit measurement for advertisers

SmartNews Inc. has launched a new “Store Visit Measurement” feature for its SmartNews Ads platform, allowing advertisers to track how digital ad exposure contributes to physical store visits. Developed in collaboration with Blogwatcher Inc., the feature utilizes Blogwatcher’s “Store Visit Measurement API” to connect online ad interactions—such as views or clicks—with actual visits to designated physical locations.

Advertisers can monitor key metrics including the number of visits, visit rates, and cost per visit directly through the management dashboard. The system does not require the installation of specialized tags on websites or landing pages, making it accessible for small-scale testing without minimum spend requirements. The tool is designed to assist retailers, restaurants, and commercial facilities in optimizing their marketing strategies by bridging the gap between digital engagement and offline results.

Bic Camera participated in a pilot program for the feature, noting that the ability to view “number of visits” as a direct metric provides a new analytical axis for evaluating the effectiveness of online ads in driving foot traffic.