Limited Space’s Orbit network spans some of the UK’s most visited shopping centres, with large‑format digital screens positioned to capture attention within busy circulation areas. As part of an ongoing investment strategy, Limited Space identified the Orbit estate for a technology refresh that would enhance visual impact while creating a more efficient and resilient display infrastructure. The existing displays comprised a mix of legacy LCD video walls and earlier LED solutions, many installed within heavy frames or glass enclosures. While functional, these systems limited performance and posed increasing maintenance challenges. Any upgrade needed to be implemented within operational retail environments, often overnight, and without interrupting trading hours or advertising schedules. The solution also needed to make use of existing structural elements wherever possible, balancing performance improvements with speed and sustainability.
Absen’s XL1.5 COB LED was selected to meet these demands, marking the first UK deployment of the series. Installed across multiple flagship locations, the solution enabled a consistent upgrade in image quality and robustness without the need for full structural replacement. Existing frameworks were retained and adapted using bespoke aluminium mounting systems, reducing material use and allowing installations to be completed within tightly controlled timeframes. With its ultra‑fine 1.5mm pixel pitch, the XL1.5 delivers crisp, detailed imagery well suited to close‑viewing retail environments. The large‑format screens, measuring approximately 3 metres by 2 metres, provide a striking visual presence within high‑footfall areas, enhancing the effectiveness of digital advertising while maintaining clarity and colour accuracy.
COB technology (or Chip‑on‑Board technology) embeds multiple LED chips directly onto the substrate and seals them beneath a protective layer, resulting in improved durability, smoother visuals and greater reliability in demanding environments. Absen’s COB technology was a defining factor in the specification. The full LED surface offers enhanced protection against physical impact and wear, making it particularly suitable for low‑level, public‑facing installations. The durable design also supports touch interaction, allowing existing interactive capabilities within the Orbit network to remain in place. To support reliable long‑term operation, a new control system was introduced across each site, ensuring consistent playback and system stability.
All upgrades were completed within overnight installation timeframes, ensuring uninterrupted trading and no loss of media revenue. The refreshed Orbit network now delivers a more resilient, future‑ready retail media platform, strengthening Limited Space’s portfolio while providing advertisers with a powerful, large‑scale digital environment across some of the UK’s most prominent shopping destinations. “For this type of retail environment, you need technology that can genuinely stand up to everyday use while still looking exceptional,” explains David Neale, Managing Partner, EcoVista. “Absen’s COB solution gives us that balance; it’s robust, reliable and delivers the visual quality brands expect in premium locations.”
“This upgrade is about strengthening our retail media estate for the long term,” shares Matt Carroll, Co-Managing Director, Limited Space. “Working with EcoVista and Absen, we’ve introduced a display solution that enhances visual impact for advertisers while giving us greater confidence in the performance and durability of our network.”
“Introducing XL1.5 COB to the UK retail market through this installation has been an exciting milestone for Absen,” shares Libby Xing, Regional Manager for UK DOOH and Sports, Absen. “It shows how COB technology can deliver outstanding image quality while meeting the practical demands of busy, public‑facing environments and we’re proud to have worked alongside EcoVista and Limited Space to bring this project to life”
