So THAT'S why contributor commissions were cut via RC copy cats. 
Seems strange to advertise stock images to the general public, like having SS advertise on Times Square.
Just judging from the photo, it looks like there's a lot of businesses. I'd have to imagine that this could be an effective way to hit different kind of image users. It is highly probable that the very workers who are employed by these businesses are the ones walking the streets, the influencers if you will. I am sure 123 conducted some sort of cost benefit analysis.