Stealth Price Hikes: How Tariffs Are Quietly Driving Up Car Costs (And What Dealerships Can Do About It)

While most car buyers are keeping an eye on MSRP, automakers are quietly increasing the actual cost to consumers — without changing the sticker price. These are known as stealth price hikes, and they’ve become the go-to strategy for car manufacturers adjusting to new tariffs imposed by the U.S. government.

In April 2025, a 25% tariff on foreign-built vehicles and auto parts was enacted. The result? Manufacturers like Ford, Toyota, Hyundai, and VW are seeing costs rise by thousands of dollars per vehicle — and they’re passing those costs on to consumers in subtle ways.

How Are Prices Going Up Without Changing Car Prices (MSRP)?

Stealth pricing isn’t about slapping a new number on the window. Instead, automakers are:

• Cutting cash-back incentives
• Raising destination fees
• Reducing lease support
• Offering fewer low-interest financing options

A recent Los Angeles Times article explains that Ford raised the cost of its Mexico-built models (like the Bronco Sport and Maverick) by $2,000. But instead of hiking the base MSRP, which consumers would quickly notice, the majority of the price increase came from higher delivery fees and vanishing discounts.

According to Kelley Blue Book, the average transaction price for a new vehicle is now $48,699, up 2.5% from the previous month — the sharpest increase in five years.

What This Means for Dealerships

Customers are walking into dealerships expecting one price and encountering another when it’s time to sign. The numbers on paper haven’t changed much — but the monthly payments have. That disconnect creates frustration, erodes trust, and can lead to lost sales.

It’s critical for dealerships to get ahead of the message.

That doesn’t mean blaming manufacturers or diving into political debates about tariffs. Instead, it’s about transparency and reassurance:

• Be honest and explain how new costs are affecting the industry.
• Promote vehicles not as impacted by the tariffs.
• Reinforce your commitment to providing value even if prices have to go up.

How It’s Relevant TV Helps Dealerships Deliver the Message

Here’s where It’s Relevant TV steps in as a game-changer for in-store communication.

Instead of relying solely on salespeople to explain these changes — often after sticker shock has already set in — dealers can use their existing TVs to deliver helpful, targeted content before that moment of tension.

Here’re some ways dealerships are combatting the changes with their It’s Relevant TV:

• Display brief explainer videos about how tariffs affect prices.
• Showcase special offers on U.S.-built or pre-tariff inventory.
• Blend in entertainment with their licensed TV shows, to keep the experience light and engaging.
• Reinforce your dealership’s commitment to your customers while customers wait in the showroom or service lounge.

This kind of communication reduces anxiety and builds trust. When customers understand what’s happening and feel informed rather than surprised, they’re far more likely to follow through with a purchase.

Turning a Pricing Challenge Into a Sales Opportunity

Yes, prices are rising — but dealerships that handle the messaging well can come out stronger. Smart, in-store communication can:

• Turn confusion into clarity
• Build customer confidence
• Highlight urgency around pre-tariff deals
• Drive sales with greater transparency

The key isn’t to pretend prices haven’t changed — it’s to explain why they’ve changed in a way that keeps the customer on your side. As automakers adjust to tariffs with behind-the-scenes pricing changes, dealerships need to lead with clarity, empathy, and strategy. With tools like It’s Relevant TV you’re not just selling cars — you’re building trust, educating buyers, and creating a showroom experience that will bring them back time and time again.

How AI is Revolutionizing Video Marketing—And What Businesses Can Learn from Meta and It’s Relevant TV

The Future of Video Marketing is Here—Powered by AI

In a groundbreaking move that underscores the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in marketing, Meta (parent company of Facebook and Instagram) has announced its ambitious plan to fully automate ad creation using AI by the end of 2026. This bold strategy is poised to fundamentally reshape how brands create, distribute, and personalize video content at scale.

But Meta isn’t the only player making strides in this space. While Meta focuses on social media ads, platforms like It’s Relevant TV are applying AI to improve on-location marketing—helping brick-and-mortar businesses deliver smarter, more engaging messaging to the audiences physically present in their spaces. Together, these advancements signal a major shift in how brands of all sizes will use video in the years ahead.

How Meta Is Using AI to Automate Video Advertising

Meta’s strategy is rooted in its vision to simplify and enhance the entire ad creation process. The company aims to enable businesses to generate highly-targeted ad campaigns with minimal input. Here’s how it works:

One Image + Budget = Full Campaign
Businesses will soon be able to upload a single product image and set a budget. Meta’s AI will automatically generate multiple ad variations—complete with video, text, and formatting—optimized for performance across Instagram, Facebook, and other Meta platforms.
AI-Powered Targeting
The AI will use real-time data such as user geolocation, interests, and behavior patterns to determine where, when, and how to display the ad. This dynamic targeting ensures that each piece of content reaches the right person at the right time.
Performance Optimization in Real Time
Meta’s system will continually test and tweak ads mid-flight, using machine learning to adapt content based on what’s driving engagement and conversions.

The goal? Efficiency and hyper-personalization at scale. For small and large businesses alike, this means less time spent creating ads, lower creative costs, and better ROI through precision targeting.

The In-Store Revolution: How It’s Relevant TV Uses AI to Enhance Customer Experience & Video Messaging

While Meta is automating ads for digital platforms, It’s Relevant TV is applying artificial intelligence to a very different, but equally valuable arena: on-premise television networks inside businesses.

Whether in a waiting room, showroom, or lobby, It’s Relevant TV transforms any screen into a branded, content-rich channel that keeps visitors informed, entertained, and engaged—with zero third-party ads.

Here’s how AI plays a critical role in delivering that experience:

1. Content Selection Based on Business Type and Audience

IRTV uses AI to match a business’s industry, location, and visitor demographics to automatically curate the right mix of video content—from news and entertainment to educational clips and local interest stories. A pediatric waiting room in Nashville, for example, will receive content vastly different from an auto dealership showroom in New York. And the programming is intelligently put together based on inputs from the businesses, constant A.I. adjustments, and human curation.

2. Intelligent Rotation to Prevent Repetition

One of the biggest problems with traditional playlist-based TV systems is content looping. Visitors see the same videos repeated, often within minutes. Other systems are sorted into “channels” and constantly play content lacking in variety. It’s Relevant TV’s AI continuously tracks what content has played and dynamically adjusts programming to avoid the repetition.

3. Video Keyword Blocking™

Unlike traditional filters that rely solely on manual tagging or broad content categories, It’s Relevant TV’s proprietary AI reviews video content and scene context. It identifies and blocks content with specific keywords or themes in real-time.—such as profanity, politics, and competitors—before the content ever appears on screen. The result is a highly controlled and brand-safe experience that ensures businesses only show content that’s appropriate, engaging, and aligned with their messaging goals.

Why This Matters: From Online Clicks to Offline Conversions

The synergy between Meta’s AI-driven ad platforms and It’s Relevant TV’s AI-enhanced on-location networks represents a complete funnel for video marketing:

Meta attracts, educates, and retargets audiences online with AI-optimized campaigns. And while these ads can be skipped after a period of time, they can reach a mass external audience quickly.
It’s Relevant TV closes the loop by reinforcing those messages in person, at the point of sale or service, without the ability for customers to skip over them.

Businesses no longer have to choose between digital and physical touchpoints—they can now synchronize them through smart, AI-powered video strategies.

AI is no longer just a buzzword—it’s the new engine behind marketing innovation. As platforms like Meta and It’s Relevant TV lead the charge, businesses have more tools than ever to deliver targeted, cost-effective, and engaging video content—both online and on-site.

Whether you’re running a local medical office, a national retail chain, or a franchise network, leveraging platforms that apply AI to video marketing is no longer optional—it’s essential to staying competitive in 2025 and beyond.

Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Day Frenzy: How Smart Retailers Are Winning — Even When Consoles Sell Out

The much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 officially launched today, June 5, 2025, sparking excitement and long lines at retailers worldwide. Boasting a 7.9-inch 1080p LCD screen, enhanced Joy-Con 2 controllers, and innovative features like GameChat and GameShare, the Switch 2 offers a significant upgrade over its predecessor. Priced at $449.99 for the base model and $499.99 for the Mario Kart World bundle, the console has been met with overwhelming demand, leading to sold-out preorders and eager fans queuing for hours to secure a unit .

In locations where Nintendo’s newest console was out of stock within minutes, screens across electronics departments pivoted instantly. Custom TV displays began promoting compatible accessories, best-selling games, and protective gear—all in stock and available for purchase today. According to retail staff at locations using these systems, the strategy is proving effective at turning disappointed shoppers into paying customers.

Retail Winners: Best Buy and the Midnight Launch Frenzy

Best Buy emerged as a major winner during the Switch 2 launch, with stores across the U.S. opening at midnight to accommodate the surge of customers. In Cary, North Carolina, more than 200 people lined up, some waiting over 14 hours, to be among the first to purchase the new console . Similarly, in Chicago, lines wrapped around blocks at both Best Buy and Target locations, highlighting the console’s immense popularity.

Best Buy’s strategic planning included offering limited-edition commemorative coins to early purchasers and organizing GameTruck theater experiences at select locations, allowing customers to try out new games like Mario Kart World firsthand . These initiatives not only enhanced the customer experience but also drove significant foot traffic and sales.

Game Truck - Brought to Best Buy for Nintendo Switch 2 Release — Game Truck – Brought to Best Buy for Nintendo Switch 2 Release

Leveraging In-Store Media Networks for Upselling Opportunities

For retailers equipped with custom in-store TV networks, such as It’s Relevant TV, the Switch 2 launch presents a unique opportunity to drive additional sales, even amidst limited console stock.

Retailers like Target have implemented dynamic digital displays to highlight in-stock items such as the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller, Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip, and popular game titles. These displays provide real-time promotions, guiding customers toward complementary purchases even if the console is already sold out in their location.

“From exclusive launch day experiences and giveaways to a wide assortment of Nintendo-inspired merchandise starting at just $20, we’re turning our stores into a celebration of play,” said Cassandra Jones, senior vice president of merchandising at Target.

Custom TV networks like It’s Relevant TV allow retailers to go beyond the game console and upsell customers other Nintendo-related items that didn’t have the same stock limitations. Even if a customer is unable to secure a Nintendo Switch 2 today, they can still leave with a carrying case, or a few games that are in high demand to have ready to use when the next batch of consoles arrive. Industry experts note that such strategies not only enhance the shopping experience but also contribute to increased sales and customer satisfaction. No one wants to wait hours in line for something and leave empty-handed, so focusing customer attention away from the disappointment of not getting the console and towards something they can buy today is vitally important.

In-Store TV displays also played a pivotal role in the days leading up to the product’s release. For the last few weeks retailers have been promoting the upcoming Nintendo launch events and pre-orders, insuring that release day would be big. And those efforts certainly paid off. Analysts say that this strategy underscores a broader shift in retail: turning impulse buyers into engaged brand participants, even when marquee items are out of stock. By leaning into dynamic in-store messaging, stores are making the most of launch day momentum and maximizing per-visit revenue.

The Nintendo Switch 2 launch has not only reinvigorated the gaming community but also provided retailers with a significant boost in sales and customer engagement. Retailers like Best Buy have demonstrated the benefits of strategic planning and customer-focused initiatives. Meanwhile, leveraging in-store media networks offered an effective avenue for upselling and maximizing revenue during this high-demand product launch.

How Auto Dealerships Are Driving Sales Amid Tariff Concerns with In-Store and Video Marketing

As the U.S. auto industry braces for the impact of new tariffs, dealerships across the country are leveraging innovative marketing strategies to boost sales and reassure customers. By combining in-store promotions with dynamic video campaigns, including the use of platforms like It’s Relevant TV, dealerships are effectively encouraging consumers to purchase vehicles before potential price increases take effect.

Navigating the Tariff Landscape

In early 2025, the U.S. government implemented a 25% tariff on imported vehicles, prompting concerns about rising car prices. Ford, for instance, reported a significant $1.5 billion loss attributed to these tariffs, leading to anticipated price hikes of 1% to 1.5% later in the year . Despite these challenges, Ford’s U.S. sales in May surged by 16% year-over-year, with F-Series truck sales up 15% . This uptick is partly credited to strategic promotions like employee pricing, which are set to continue through July 4.

The Power of In-Store Video Marketing

To capitalize on consumer urgency, dealerships are enhancing their in-store experiences using platforms like It’s Relevant TV. This service transforms dealership TVs into customized channels that blend family-friendly entertainment with targeted marketing messages. Features include:

Promotion of Services: Dealerships can educate customers about available services, encouraging repeat business.

Social Media Integration: Real-time social media feeds allow customers to connect with dealerships online.

Custom Content: Dealerships can showcase their own videos and advertisements, ensuring consistent branding.

By providing engaging content and timely promotions, It’s Relevant TV helps reduce perceived wait times and enhances the overall customer experience .

Video Campaigns Driving Urgency

Beyond the showroom, dealerships are launching compelling video campaigns to reach potential buyers. These campaigns often highlight:

Limited-Time Offers: Emphasizing promotions like employee pricing to encourage immediate purchases.

Tariff Impacts: Informing consumers about impending price increases due to tariffs, creating a sense of urgency.

For example, Ford’s recent sales boost is attributed in part to consumers acting before tariff-related price hikes.

Embracing Multiscreen Strategies

Recognizing that consumers engage with multiple screens, dealerships are adopting multiscreen marketing approaches. By combining traditional TV, streaming services, and in-store displays, they ensure consistent messaging across platforms. This strategy not only broadens reach but also reinforces brand messaging, leading to higher recall and purchase intent .

In the face of economic uncertainty and tariff-induced challenges, auto dealerships are proactively adapting their marketing strategies. By leveraging in-store platforms like It’s Relevant TV and expanding the exposure of their video campaigns, they are effectively driving sales and enhancing customer engagement. These innovative approaches not only address immediate concerns but also lay the groundwork for sustained success in a competitive market.

Sydney Sweeney’s Bathwater Soap? Inside Her Viral Dr. Squatch Giveaway and Marketing Genius

In a bold fusion of celebrity allure and inventive marketing, actress Sydney Sweeney has partnered with natural men’s personal care brand Dr. Squatch to launch a limited-edition soap infused with her own bathwater. This unconventional product, aptly named “Sydney’s Bathwater Bliss,” is set to release on June 6, 2025, with only 5,000 bars available at $8 each. The collaboration has already generated significant buzz, with tens of thousands signing up for a chance to win one of 100 bars in a pre-launch giveaway.

From Viral Ad to Viral Product Idea

The genesis of this unique product traces back to a 2024 Dr. Squatch advertisement featuring Sweeney in a bubble bath, humorously addressing “dirty little boys” and promoting natural hygiene. The ad sparked a flurry of fan comments playfully requesting her bathwater. Rather than dismissing these remarks, Sweeney and Dr. Squatch leaned into the joke, collecting water from the shoot to create a tangible product. Sweeney announced the collaboration on Instagram, stating, “You kept asking about my bathwater after the @drsquatch ad… so we kept it.”

The Product Details

“Sydney’s Bathwater Bliss” is a medium-grit exfoliating soap that combines natural ingredients like pine bark extract, shea butter, and sand, delivering a forest-inspired scent with notes of pine, Douglas fir, and earthy moss. Each bar comes with a certificate of authenticity, emphasizing the inclusion of Sweeney’s actual bathwater. The product aims to promote awareness about natural ingredients in personal care products, blending humor with educational marketing.

Anticipated Sell-Out and Resale Frenzy

Despite its modest $8 price tag, the soap’s limited availability and celebrity association have led to a surge in demand. Dr. Squatch is confident that the 5,000 bars will sell out rapidly, a belief supported by the overwhelming response to the giveaway. Notably, some individuals have already listed the yet-to-be-released soap for resale at prices exceeding $200, highlighting the product’s perceived value and the power of scarcity in marketing.

Instead of soft, floral branding or overly clinical messaging, the Dr. Squatch x Sydney Sweeney collaboration leans into humor, confidence, and pop culture appeal. By introducing a playful, almost outrageous concept—soap made with a celebrity’s bathwater—the brand creates intrigue and taps into masculine curiosity without compromising on authenticity or quality. It reframes scented soap as something bold, exclusive, and worth talking about, making it socially acceptable—and even cool—for men to be interested in.

Harnessing the Power of Video Marketing

This campaign underscores the efficacy of creative video content in driving consumer engagement and sales. The initial advertisement’s viral success laid the groundwork for the product launch, demonstrating how compelling storytelling and humor can captivate audiences. For business owners, this serves as a case study in leveraging video marketing to create buzz, foster brand loyalty, and convert interest into tangible sales. By tapping into cultural trends and embracing authenticity, brands can craft narratives that resonate and inspire action.

This campaign is a masterclass in the power of video marketing to shape perception, generate buzz, and drive immediate consumer action. The viral success of the original Dr. Squatch ad featuring Sydney Sweeney demonstrates how a single well-crafted video can spark massive engagement, fuel product demand, and even create an entirely new revenue opportunity. It’s not just about celebrity appeal—it’s about tapping into humor, curiosity, and cultural relevance through strategic storytelling on screen.

Retailers with Physical Locations can Magnify Their Success

While Dr. Squatch is an e-commerce brand without its own physical storefronts, companies like LUSH Cosmetics—with dedicated retail locations—are uniquely positioned to take a campaign like this to the next level. In the world of soap and personal care products, where many offerings can feel interchangeable, creative marketing is often what transforms a basic commodity into a buzzworthy, must-have item. A clever concept alone isn’t always enough—brands need a vehicle to keep that momentum going in-store, where buying decisions happen in real time.

This is where a platform like It’s Relevant TV becomes especially powerful. By turning in-store televisions into custom marketing channels, brands can showcase campaign videos, behind-the-scenes moments, influencer clips, and even live social media engagement—all timed to coincide with product promotions. With no third-party ads to compete for attention, the content stays brand-focused and on message. For physical retailers, this creates an immersive, storytelling-driven environment that not only reinforces marketing efforts but also elevates the perceived value of their products, turning everyday items like soap into premium experiences that drive customer loyalty and sales.

Navigating the Impact of Tariffs: How Your TV Can Support Your Business

Overcoming The Impending Tariffs

The recent imposition of substantial tariffs on imports from key trading partners has created a challenging environment for U.S. businesses. Industries ranging from manufacturing to retail are grappling with increased costs and supply chain disruptions. In this climate, finding innovative solutions to maintain customer engagement and drive revenue is crucial.

One effective strategy is enhancing the in-store experience to encourage customer loyalty and repeat visits. It’s Relevant TV offers a tailored television network that transforms your business’s waiting areas or retail spaces into dynamic, engaging environments.

thank-you-on-business-tv-digital-signage

Here’s how a Custom TV Network can help your business navigate the current economic landscape:

Cost-Effective Marketing: With rising operational costs due to tariffs, allocating budget for advertising can be challenging. It’s Relevant TV provides an affordable platform to showcase your products, services, and promotions directly to your customers while they are on-site.
Enhanced Customer Experience: By offering entertaining and informative content, It’s Relevant TV reduces perceived wait times and improves overall customer satisfaction. A positive in-store experience can differentiate your business from competitors facing similar challenges.
Filtered Content: The platform allows you to choose from 65+ categories of content that are comprised of over 500,000 TV programs, giving you many more choices of content. Add to that a filtering system that allows you to block out topics and people from your screen, and you are sure to foster a stronger connection with your clientele.
Cut the Cable Cost: With cable bills soaring year over year, and no end in sight, businesses are looking for alternatives to the traditional TV subscription. It’s Relevant has affordable plans starting at a fraction of what cable TV plans cost. They also have a history of keeping rates low. The CEO was quoted in a recent news article saying, “We have never raised the rates on any of our clients, despite the last few years of inflation. We are committed to being a partner, and a good partner does everything they can to keep costs low and predictable”.

In times of economic uncertainty, leveraging innovative solutions like It’s Relevant TV can provide your business with the tools needed to adapt and thrive. By enhancing the customer experience and effectively communicating your value proposition, you can mitigate some of the challenges posed by the current tariff situation and position your business for sustained success.

#1 Marketing Mistake of 2025: Don’t Overlook Customer Retention

Many businesses allocate a significant portion of their budgets to external advertising, often underestimating the value and ROI of internal marketing for customer retention.

Data from industry studies reveals it costs 5 to 7 times more to acquire a new customer than to retain an existing one.

Despite this, businesses remain fixated on external campaigns, paying high CPMs (cost per thousand impressions) to platforms like Meta (formerly Facebook), Google, and X (formerly Twitter). Meta’s CPMs typically range between $8 to $14, while Google Display Ads average around $6 to $12, and X’s CPMs can range from $6 to $10 or more, depending on targeting and ad formats.

Compared to these, TV marketing tools such as those offered by It’s Relevant provide much lower CPMs—between $0.50 to $2—making them a smarter, and more cost-effective option.

The high costs of external advertising are also compounded by the fact that many platforms target audiences that may not convert. Meta and Google ads, while effective in getting in front of large audiences, can actually limit your ad’s visibility to the most relevant audiences. This often causes wasteful spending as you reach irrelevant audiences, unless you have someone dedicated to continual optimization and investment– which just makes it even more expensive!

In contrast, internal marketing tools focus on your customers who are already familiar with your brand—people who have visited your business, and are statistically more likely to return. By targeting this core group, innovative customer retention technologies ensure businesses get the most value out of their marketing efforts.

Internal Marketing is crucial for Customer Retention

Most business owners already know that the cost of retaining a customer is much less than the cost of acquiring a new one; but that’s just the start. The added revenue a business can generate is where the difference really shines.

According to research by Bain Capital, increasing customer retention rates by just 5% can boost profits by up to 95%. When businesses use industry-leading tools like It’s Relevant TV, they can easily promote special offers, highlight additional services, and deliver timely messages to their customers while they are present in their locations.

In today’s competitive advertising landscape, where external platforms demand higher and higher CPMs, businesses must rethink their marketing strategies.

Instead of pouring all of your funds into external campaigns with CPMs upwards of $10-20, you can achieve better results by leveraging affordable and targeted internal marketing tools.

Utilizing platforms like It’s Relevant TV and the even lower-cost-to-start Rele.TV, allow businesses to create their own ad spaces for a fraction of the price, and with just as much if not more effectiveness. With CPMs as low as $0.50 to $2, these internal technology-assisted solutions not only maximize your marketing budget but also target the ideal audience—your existing customers—ultimately driving greater loyalty, retention, and revenue.

Increase Your Social Media Following to Increase Your Customer Retention

Social media following plays a key role in this process by keeping your brand top-of-mind long after a customer leaves your store. When customers follow your business on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or X, you gain direct access to their attention—providing opportunities to re-engage, promote special offers, and build a deeper relationship when they are outside of your business’s walls. This long-term connection can be the difference between a one-time visit and a lifelong customer.

It’s Relevant TV helps bridge the gap between in-store experience and online engagement by turning your business’s TVs into tools for social growth. Instead of displaying cable or passive streaming content that can promote other brands, It’s Relevant TV gives businesses the power to include automated social media displays that directly invite customers to follow them on social media. This turns passive viewing time into an active social conversion funnel.

By combining relevant, family-friendly entertainment with your brand messaging, It’s Relevant TV ensures that customers are both entertained and engaged. This unique dual-purpose platform keeps visitors in a good mood while also planting calls to action that matter to your business. Whether you operate a retail store, medical office, restaurant, or auto dealership, It’s Relevant TV helps convert foot traffic into followers—and followers into repeat customers. It’s a simple yet powerful way to increase social engagement without needing to spend extra time or money on social campaigns.

How to Build Your Own TV Network in 2025 | A Simple Muvi Alternative

If you’re looking to start your own online television network, you’ve probably come across high-priced solutions like Muvi. While Muvi positions itself as a comprehensive OTT and streaming platform, the truth is—most businesses can get more for less than the $199+/month price tag) that comes with it.

What most businesses really need is a customizable, content-rich TV network that works right out of the box—with no tech team required. That’s where It’s Relevant TV comes in, offering a fully-managed, branded TV experience for just $89/month. Let’s break down how It’s Relevant TV lets you build your own television channel the smarter way.

You Don’t Need to Build a TV Network From Scratch

With services like Muvi, you’re expected to act like a full-blown media company: sourcing your own video content, building out distribution, setting up monetization, and managing user interfaces. That might make sense if you’re launching the next Netflix—but it’s overkill for businesses that want to control what’s playing on their in-location TVs or their owned channels.

It’s Relevant TV simplifies this entire process:
• 500,000+ licensed videos across 100+ categories
• Custom-branded network for your business
• Turnkey solution: No programming or content acquisition needed
• Set up in minutes, not months

Instead of spending hours uploading content and building menus, you’re spending time where it counts—growing your business and engaging your visitors.

Designed for Businesses, Not Broadcasters

Muvi is great for large media companies or content distributors. But what about restaurants, auto dealerships, doctors’ offices, gyms, and retail stores that just want engaging, brand-safe content to play on their TVs?

It’s Relevant TV is built specifically for those businesses.

You get:
• A curated mix of short-form content that keeps people watching
• Your brand featured on-screen at all times
• The ability to run your own promotions, ads, or messaging
• Smart keyword blocking to keep out controversial content

That means no more cable commercials for competitors, and no more irrelevant or inappropriate shows turning customers off.

Pay $89 per Month, Not $199+

With Muvi, plans start at $199/month, and that’s just the beginning. Add-on costs for bandwidth, transcoding, and app development can send your bill soaring.

It’s Relevant TV keeps it simple:
• $89/month flat rate, no hidden fees, no setup costs.
• Includes support, content, branded graphics, and unlimited video uploads.

For small to mid-sized businesses, that’s not just affordable—it’s a game-changing investment in customer experience and internal marketing.

Your Own TV Network = Internal Marketing Power

Why let your TVs advertise for someone else?

With It’s Relevant TV, your screens become powerful in-store marketing tools:
• Display seasonal offers, product highlights, or loyalty programs
• Reinforce brand identity with custom visuals and messages
• Schedule different content for different hours or locations

You’re not just entertaining your audience—you’re converting them.

And unlike Muvi, you don’t have to worry about content moderation or production. It’s already done for you.

No High $$$ Development

Muvi expects users to know (or hire) a team to handle things like:
• Backend video configuration
• DRM protection
• CDN integration
• App development across platforms

Unless you’re building a multi-platform entertainment empire, that’s probably overkill.

It’s Relevant TV requires zero technical knowledge. Everything runs through a user-friendly portal with live support just a click away. You choose your topics, upload your ads or promos, and you’re done.

Built to Scale with Your Business

Whether you have one location or hundreds, It’s Relevant TV can grow with you:

• Multi-location content control
• Location-specific advertising
• Centralized management dashboard

You can even monitor how often your promos are running—and adjust messaging by day, time, or season. Try doing that with standard cable or static digital signage.

The Bottom Line

If you’re a media company with a production team and a multi-tiered distribution strategy, Muvi might be worth the $199+ investment.

But if you’re a business owner, franchise group, or marketing manager who just wants a modern, professional, branded TV experience without the hassle or high cost…

It’s Relevant TV is the better choice.
• Faster setup
• Smarter targeting
• Less cost
• More content
• Ongoing support

Ready to Launch Your Own TV Channel?

Join the hundreds of businesses already using It’s Relevant TV to power their custom-branded networks.

👉 Learn more and get started

FAQs

Q: Can I upload my own content to It’s Relevant TV?
Yes. You can upload your own videos, ads, or announcements to play in between content segments.

Q: What kinds of businesses is It’s Relevant TV ideal for?
Restaurants, retail stores, medical offices, auto dealerships, gyms, franchises, and waiting rooms of all kinds. Anywhere there is a TV with people in front of it for 2 or more minutes!

Q: Does It’s Relevant TV have ads?
No. Just marketing messages for the products and services you are selling or are partnered with.

Q: How fast can I launch?
The SAME DAY! No developers or AV specialists needed. If you have a Roku, Apple TV or Amazon Fire TV/Stick you are ready to launch!

Q: Is this streaming or cable?
You can cut the (tv portion) of your cable subscription. It’s Relevant TV is a streaming-based platform.

Buying Social Media Followers Will Hurt Your Business More Than Help It

In the race to build a strong social media presence, some businesses may be tempted to take shortcuts—like buying followers to artificially inflate their numbers. At first glance, this may seem like an easy way to make your brand appear more popular and credible. However, purchasing social media followers is a dangerous strategy that can do far more harm than good.

This article will explore why buying followers is not only ineffective but can actively damage your business’s reputation, social media performance, and bottom line.

Instead of resorting to risky tactics like buying followers, businesses should utilize in-business solutions like It’s Relevant TV, which allows you to organically build a loyal and engaged audience through smart in-location promotions.

The Dangers of Buying Social Media Followers

1. Low Engagement Rates

One of the biggest red flags when you buy followers is that they are typically comprised of fake accounts or bots. While your follower count may grow, your engagement rate (likes, comments, shares) will not. Social media algorithms prioritize engagement, so if your posts are not getting interactions, your content will be less visible to a real audience. So even though your follower count will be higher, the number of people actually seeing your posts may become lower! The lower engagement signals to both the platform and your genuine followers that your content isn’t valuable.

Why this matters:

Engagement is the key to growth: Social media algorithms (on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X) are designed to show users content that sparks interactions. If your posts aren’t getting likes, comments, or shares, your content will get buried.
Customers notice: When a business has thousands of followers but barely any engagement on their posts, it becomes obvious that many of those followers are fake. This erodes trust and can make your business look inauthentic. If you take shortcuts with your social media, customers may assume you are taking shortcuts in other areas as well.

2. Consumers Can Tell When Followers Are Bought

Today’s consumers are savvy. They can quickly identify when a business has bought followers based on the disparity between follower count and engagement. For example, a business with 10,000 followers but only a handful of likes on each post will raise eyebrows. When customers sense that a business is trying to deceive them, it damages your brand’s credibility.

How it hurts your brand:

Lack of trust: Authenticity is key in building customer relationships. When consumers realize that you’ve bought followers, it can make them question the legitimacy of your business and its offerings.
Negative reputation: A business that takes shortcuts like buying followers can quickly develop a negative reputation, which spreads easily through word-of-mouth and online reviews.

3. It Skews Your Analytics

Another downside of buying followers is that it corrupts your social media data. Analytics are crucial for understanding what content resonates with your audience, how to improve your strategy, and where to invest your time and resources. It can also provide you with valuable feedback on the products or services you are promoting. When you fill your follower base with bots or inactive accounts, your analytics data becomes skewed and meaningless.

Consequences of distorted analytics:

Bad decision-making: If you’re basing your social media strategy on faulty data, you’ll likely make poor decisions, wasting time and money on content that doesn’t perform.
Missed opportunities: You won’t be able to properly track what content your real audience likes, leading to missed opportunities for engagement and growth.

4. Risk of Being Penalized by Social Media Platforms

Social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter regularly purge fake accounts and bots from their systems. If a large portion of your follower base is made up of these types of accounts, your numbers can drop drastically overnight. Additionally, platforms can penalize accounts that engage in these practices by limiting the reach of their content or even shadow-banning or suspending the account altogether.

The potential fallout:

Follower loss: When platforms detect fake followers and remove them, your follower count can plummet, exposing your deception to the public.
Account suspension: If your account is found to be in violation of platform policies, you could face serious consequences, including temporary or permanent suspension.

5. No Real ROI

Ultimately, buying followers provides no real return on investment. Fake followers don’t interact with your posts, buy your products, or refer others to your business. Without real customer engagement, your social media presence becomes nothing more than a vanity metric that doesn’t contribute to your bottom line.

Instead of wasting money on fake followers, businesses should focus on engaging genuine customers who are interested in their products and services.

The Alternative: Building Genuine Followers with In-Business Promotions

1. Target Customers Inside Your Business

Using TV platforms like It’s Relevant TV enable you to reach customers in your physical location—the very people who are most likely to follow you on social media. These customers have already demonstrated an interest in your business simply by being there, making them the perfect audience to engage with on social media.

Higher likelihood of engagement: Customers who are physically in your business are more likely to follow you on social media, engage with your content, and share their experience with others.
Stronger connection: Since these customers already have a connection with your brand, they are more likely to trust your content and recommend your business to others.

2. Promote Social Media Without the Risks of Public Feedback

Unlike public social media platforms, It’s Relevant TV doesn’t show customer reviews, comments, or ratings. Instead, it allows you to display only the posts that you create on your own social media profiles. This gives you full control over the messaging your customers see, without the risk of negative comments or bad reviews influencing their perception of your brand.

Total control: You decide which posts are shown, ensuring that only your best content is displayed.
No negative distractions: Without public reviews or comments, you can promote your social media content in a risk-free environment.

3. Leverage High-Engagement TV Content

Static signs that ask customers to “Follow us on Facebook” are no longer effective. People are naturally drawn to digital screens, especially those displaying dynamic, engaging content like TV. It’s Relevant TV taps into this attention by seamlessly integrating your social media promotions into the programming your customers are already watching in your business.

Eye-catching content: Moving images and videos grab more attention than static signs or posters.
Built-in call-to-action: By displaying your social media handles on a TV screen that’s already drawing customers’ attention, you create a natural and effective way to encourage followers.

4. Build Trust and Authenticity

Using It’s Relevant TV to promote your social media allows you to grow a genuine, engaged follower base. By targeting the right people—customers who have already visited your business—you’ll cultivate an audience that is genuinely interested in your products and services. This authentic engagement is much more valuable than a large but inactive follower base filled with fake accounts.

Trustworthy growth: Genuine followers are more likely to engage with your content, recommend your business, and return as loyal customers.
Positive brand perception: Building an authentic following creates a stronger, more credible social media presence that customers can trust.

Skip the Shortcuts, Build Real Followers

While buying social media followers might seem like a quick fix, it’s a strategy that will ultimately hurt your business more than help it. From low engagement rates and damaged credibility to skewed analytics and potential penalties from social media platforms, the risks far outweigh the temporary boost in follower count.

For less than $90 a month, businesses can focus on building genuine, engaged followers—and It’s Relevant TV provides the perfect solution. By promoting your social media accounts to customers already inside your business, you’ll grow an audience that is genuinely interested in your brand, without the risks associated with buying followers.

MNTN (Mountain) Seeks to IPO– Understanding the Revolution in Connected TV Advertising

MNTN (pronounced “mountain”) is a leading connected TV (CTV) advertising platform that enables brands to effectively reach audiences through internet-connected televisions. By offering a self-serve platform, MNTN simplifies the process of purchasing premium CTV inventory and provides real-time performance analytics, making TV advertising both accessible and measurable for businesses of all sizes.

Ryan Reynolds and the Acquisition of Maximum Effort Marketing

In June 2021, MNTN expanded its creative capabilities by acquiring Maximum Effort Marketing, the agency co-founded by actor Ryan Reynolds and George Dewey. This acquisition allowed MNTN to integrate Maximum Effort’s innovative approach to ad creation with its advanced advertising technology. As part of the deal, Reynolds assumed the role of Chief Creative Officer at MNTN, while Dewey became Chief Brand Officer.

Democratizing CTV Advertising for Businesses of All Sizes

MNTN’s platform is designed to cater to businesses ranging from small startups to large enterprises. By providing a user-friendly interface and scalable solutions, MNTN enables advertisers to:

Maximize Return on Ad Spend (ROAS): The platform’s precision targeting and real-time analytics help advertisers optimize their campaigns for better performance.

Accelerate Campaign Deployment: With intuitive tools, businesses can launch campaigns swiftly, adapting to market trends and consumer behaviors.

Enhance Advertising Strategies: MNTN’s comprehensive reporting and insights empower advertisers to make informed decisions, refining their strategies for greater impact.

Opportunities in CTV Advertising

The CTV advertising landscape presents significant opportunities for businesses:

Expanding Audience Reach: As more consumers shift from traditional TV to streaming services, CTV offers access to a growing and diverse audience.
Advanced Targeting Capabilities: CTV platforms like MNTN allow advertisers to leverage data-driven insights for precise audience targeting, enhancing engagement and conversion rates.
Cost-Effective Advertising: Compared to traditional TV advertising, CTV provides a more affordable option with measurable results, making it accessible for businesses with varying budgets.

Financial Growth and Investment

MNTN has demonstrated robust financial growth and attracted significant investment:

Series D Funding: In 2022, MNTN secured $119 million in Series D financing, with prominent investors such as BlackRock and Fidelity participating.
Revenue Growth: The company reported a nearly 28% increase in revenue, reaching $225.6 million in the previous year. Net losses narrowed from $53.3 million to $32.9 million, indicating improved operational efficiency. Source: Reuters

Looking Ahead: IPO Plans

In February 2025, MNTN filed for an initial public offering (IPO) in the United States, aiming to list on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “MNTN.” The company has engaged Morgan Stanley, Citigroup, and Evercore ISI as underwriters for the IPO, reflecting its growth trajectory and the expanding potential of the CTV advertising market.

Innovations in Advertising

MNTN’s innovative approach to CTV advertising, bolstered by strategic acquisitions and substantial investments, has positioned it as a key player in the evolving digital advertising landscape. By offering accessible and effective advertising solutions, MNTN continues to empower businesses of all sizes to engage with audiences through connected TVs, capitalizing on the shift towards streaming and digital content consumption.

Beyond MNTN there are many other tech startups creating ad monetization on televisions. Some of these other companies are focussed on screens within business locations, reaching engaged customers at the point of sale, making an even stronger bond and higher CPMS for ad sales.

Funding

MNTN has raise over $200M– using the funding to grow their team, enhancing their adtech platform, expanding the customer base, and acquiring complementary businesses – all of which set the stage for its strong revenue growth and the lofty ~$2.2B valuation achieved in 2022. These investments in growth appear to be paying off, as evidenced by MNTN’s IPO filing in 2025 and its position as a leading player in the connected TV advertising market.