The challenge
Pennymangle Ltd operates the largest network of penny mangle machines in the UK, where people can “mangle a penny” to turn it into a souvenir of their visit.
As audience preferences evolve, the company released National Notes—12 high-quality, exclusive, collectible banknote-style souvenirs so far, celebrating well-known British landmarks, available to buy from branded kiosks.
Pennymangle Ltd wanted to add value and bring these collectibles to life, enhancing their appeal, and encouraging purchases, through exclusive digital content.
The response
Holosphere worked with Pennymangle Ltd to transform the static designs into exciting 3D mobile augmented-reality animations.
After purchasing the physical note, customers can access the embedded AR content through an app, available via a QR code or the Google/Apple store. Once activated, 3D models related to the theme of each location would “jump out” from the notes, allowing people to explore the content from different angles—getting closer or moving further away.
The result
Customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and the success of the project has led Pennymangle Ltd to plan to collaborate with Holosphere on additional designs and AR experiences that people can enjoy at home.
“People never cease to say ‘wow’ when they see the banknotes come to life! The wow factor of the AR makes it much easier for sites to see the added value of the Souvenir Banknote, which has a sale price of just £2.50!”
– James Chilton, Sales Engineer
The project proved how AR can enhance the souvenirs by telling the story behind each item, providing historical and cultural context. This added depth makes the souvenirs even more meaningful and desirable.