BT and Global have announced a 10-year partnership to upgrade payphones in the UK and launch more digital hubs for local communities.

In a move to provide better connectivity and hyper-local advertising to over 200 towns and cities, the agreement will see Global convert up to 2,000 conventional BT payphones and kiosks into brand new Street Hubs over a 10-year period from next year.

Subscribe to Mobile Marketing Magazine

Click here to get the latest marketing news free in your inbox every Thursday

This also includes selling and marketing on the telecoms giant’s 959 existing Street Hubs.

BT will also continue to provide mobile and WiFi connectivity to the units.

BT Business Chief Executive Officer, Bas Burger, said: “BT’s payphones have long been an iconic feature on the UK’s streets – and with the way we all communicate changing, today’s announcement marks a further step into the future.

“There are already almost 1,000 modern digital Street Hubs bringing communication benefits to local communities across the UK.

“By bringing together BT’s rock-solid connectivity with Global’s unrivalled expertise in out-of-home advertising, we can almost triple this number over the next decade.”

Global Group CEO, Stephen Miron, added: “We are absolutely delighted to continue our partnership with BT for at least another 10 years. Street Hubs have become increasingly attractive to advertisers, given their striking presence and prominent positioning on the major streets across the UK.

“Together with BT, we have very exciting and ambitious plans to significantly expand the Street Hub network, alongside some highly innovative solutions for advertisers. BT has been a great partner, and we look forward to continuing this relationship over the next decade.”