Video network Smartclip launches in the UK

Interactive video network Smartclip has launched in the UK, offering agencies and advertisers the ability to convert TV ad campaigns to an online video format.

The German network, which was founded by by ex-Lycos executives Jean-Pierre Fumagalli and Roland Schaber last year, has run 180 advertising campaigns across its 300-plus network of publishers, with more than 100 million video views a month.

The intelligent network technology standardises ad specifications to ensure compatibility with any embedded media player.

Smartclip UK’s managing director Sam Kayum, said the uptake of online video ads across Europe has been “slow” as it is seen to be more complicated than traditional television advertising.

However, the smartclip service claims to offer online video campaigns that are as easy to book as TV campaigns, “but with an added level of measurability that can demonstrate a tangible value”.

The company’s European clients include Nokia, Alfa Romeo, O2, Johnson & Johnson, Nintendo, Disney and Universal Group.