• by Liz Tascio , October 26, 2006

Kiss paper flyers good-bye. A new company promises one-on-one interactions with consumers on the street that deliver measurable results and qualified leads.

Adwalker, founded in Ireland in 2003 and introduced in the U.S. last year, sends teams of trained “ambassadors” into high-traffic areas. Each wears a screen that’s visible even in sunlight, a portable printer, and a credit card machine. The Internet-connected reps can sign consumers up for contests and subscriptions, print coupons, register information, and make sales on the spot.

The eye-catching teams generate leads, create brand awareness, and drive traffic to a store or Web site at a low cost-per-lead, says Matt Fine, regional CEO of Adwalker’s U.S. operations.

“Crowds develop around them, which brings on more crowds,” Fine says. “Everyone wants in. They want to be part of the entertainment.”

Adwalker’s clients includes Charles Schwab, Nokia, and Volvo.