Solari boards, also known as split-flap boards, are disappearing from airports around the world due to their inefficiency and difficulty in maintenance. Changi Airport in Singapore recently announced the retirement of their split-flap boards, citing the challenge of finding replacement parts. Solari di Udine, the company that popularized split-flap boards, no longer sells them to airports. However, these vintage boards are experiencing a renaissance in other industries such as shops, restaurants, museums, and hotels. Oat Foundry, a company that builds mechanical displays, has successfully revived the split-flap design and has clients worldwide. The appeal of split-flap boards lies in their nostalgic sound, the anticipation of travel, and the eye-catching analog movement they provide in a digital age.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solari boards disappearing | Technological | Digital displays replace split-flap boards | Efficiency and maintenance issues |
| Nostalgia for split-flap boards | Cultural/Social | Continued appeal of vintage tech | Sentimental value and analog movement |
| Split-flap boards in non-airport settings | Market/Industry | Increased use in shops, restaurants, museums, and hotels | Nostalgia and aesthetic appeal |
| Oat Foundry’s split-flap boards | Technological/Market | Increased use of non-digital displays | Demand for non-digital, nostalgic experience |
| Campaign to keep Solari board | Cultural/Social | Preservation of tangible experiences | Appreciation for analog and historical value |