How to use storefronts of closed stores? Advertising.

The New York Times reports on the clever use of well-placed empty storefronts. It’s not expensive,looks good and some owners are donating space to good causes (like Conservation International).

“Mr. Sherman [the managing director of BBDO West,San Francisco,part of the Omnicom Group] is paying an average of $500 for three-month stints in prime locations. (An outdoor billboard in comparable spots would cost $50,000,he said.)”