The Rise of Sneaky Ads on Streaming Platforms (Amazon Prime, Paramount+, Hulu)

In recent years, connected TV (CTV) has exploded in popularity, offering marketers powerful new channels for reaching audiences. But with this growth has come a less welcome trend: streaming platforms that were once ad-free are quietly introducing advertisements, and those that already featured ads are now increasing the volume. This creeping shift is raising concerns among viewers and advertisers alike—and it may ultimately undermine the very value that made CTV so appealing in the first place.

Amazon Prime Video is one of the most high-profile examples of this change. Initially marketed as an ad-free experience, Amazon introduced ads to Prime Video in early 2024, promising a limited load of 2–3.5 minutes per hour. But according to a recent Adweek report, that load has now doubled to 4–6 minutes per hour—bringing Prime Video in line with ad-supported competitors like Hulu and Paramount+. The move signals a broader trend in the industry: more ads, more often.

A Growing Pattern Across the CTV Landscape

Amazon isn’t alone. Many streaming platforms are following a similar path, adding more ad inventory in an effort to maximize revenue.

With streaming now accounting for nearly 44% of all U.S. TV viewing, and with more than 70% of that viewership occurring on ad-supported services, there’s a clear push to monetize attention while it’s still abundant.

Device manufacturers like Roku, Vizio, and Samsung are also getting in on the action. Ads are being baked directly into smart TV operating systems—sometimes even appearing in menus and home screens. These placements aren’t always obvious, and they can erode the user experience in subtle ways. From autoplaying ads to mandatory viewing before content starts, what used to be a lean-back, user-first medium is beginning to resemble traditional television more and more.

For marketers, this shift creates both opportunity and risk. While the availability of more ad space may initially seem like a benefit, the effectiveness of those ads can be compromised as platforms chase quantity over quality.

The Downside of Over-Saturation

At first glance, expanding ad loads might seem like a win-win: platforms earn more, and advertisers gain access to a larger pool of impressions. But there’s a tipping point.

As more ads are crammed into each viewing session, the value of each individual ad decreases. Viewers become fatigued. Repetition sets in. Engagement drops. And eventually, advertisers see diminished returns on their investment.

There’s also the issue of context. Many platforms use automated tools to serve ads based on viewer behavior or content metadata, but without strategic curation, placements can feel irrelevant or even disruptive. When that happens, it’s not just the viewer who suffers—the advertiser’s brand perception can take a hit as well.

And there’s a bigger problem on the horizon. If ad effectiveness continues to decline, brands may shift their budgets away from CTV altogether. Short-term revenue gains for streaming platforms could lead to long-term losses in advertiser trust and audience loyalty.

A Call for Smarter TV Marketing

For marketers invested in television—whether through traditional channels or connected platforms—this shift underscores the importance of control, context, and content alignment. Simply buying impressions isn’t enough. Success in this environment requires thoughtful placement, a focus on storytelling, and a commitment to respecting the viewer experience.

Platforms like It’s Relevant TV, which allow businesses to control their in-location content without third-party advertising, are emerging as a far more cost-effective and sustainable alternative. Rather than chasing ad revenue at the expense of viewer satisfaction, these solutions prioritize business messaging, sponsor integration, and customer engagement within a carefully managed environment.

As connected TV continues to evolve, marketers will need to ask:
Are we maximizing visibility, or are we diluting our message?
Are we enhancing the experience, or becoming part of the clutter?

The future of television marketing will not depend solely on how many ads you run—but where you place them, and how well they’re received.

Inside Andre Agassi’s “Ballers” Club: A New Era in Sports, Socializing, and In-Club Media

Andre Agassi, the tennis icon known for his powerful backhand and even stronger entrepreneurial instincts, has entered a new playing field: the high-end social sports club space. Backed by Agassi and a roster of athlete-investors including NBA star Tyrese Maxey and tennis pro Sloane Stephens, “Ballers” is more than a gym or country club—it’s an experiential destination merging athleticism with hospitality and community.

The flagship Ballers location is opening in Philadelphia’s Fishtown neighborhood, occupying a sprawling 55,000-square-foot converted power plant. The vision for the space is ambitious, featuring six indoor pickleball courts, three padel courts, and two squash courts. Add to that a multipurpose turf field, a sand-bunker putting green, a full-scale gym and recovery zone, Golfzon simulators, and traditional golf bays, and it’s clear that Ballers is designed to be a complete sports and lifestyle complex. But Ballers is also investing just as heavily in its social experience, with a full-service restaurant, craft cocktails, DJ events, local art activations, and ongoing programming that bridges sport and culture.

Ballers is not just a place to work out. It’s a place to gather, network, compete, and relax. The atmosphere is intentionally curated to feel modern and welcoming, with industrial design elements and a hospitality-forward approach to member services. It’s the kind of venue where the lines between competition, recreation, and social life blur—in the best way.

Businesses Can Grow Their Brands Through Custom TV

With all of this activity and foot traffic, Ballers is also uniquely positioned to take advantage of custom in-club media. They could even launch their own internal TV network with a platform like It’s Relevant TV.

Rather than relying on cable or outside advertising networks, Ballers could use its own screens throughout the facility to broadcast curated content, exclusive videos, promotional messages, and localized entertainment tailored to its members.

Ballers could display everything from in-house matches and golf simulator tournaments to behind-the-scenes training segments, athlete interviews, leaderboard highlights, all while sharing automated social media posts from their Facebook, Instagram and X accounts. The platform allows for a mix of dynamic entertainment and targeted messaging—fully controlled by the business and free from third-party advertising. That means Ballers can use the platform to communicate membership offers, showcase upcoming events, promote new classes or experiences, and build community engagement directly on their in-house screens. Plus, they can create their very own ad network, selling space to outside advertisers that they want to partner with.

There’s a strong business case for this kind of in-house content strategy. First, it reinforces the Ballers brand by keeping members immersed in the club’s identity every time they look up at a screen. Second, it boosts retention by turning regular visits into media-rich experiences, helping members feel like part of something larger than the space they are in. Third, it saves on marketing costs by delivering key messages directly, without as much of a need for outside ad placement. Fourth, it opens up new monetization channels— like offering branded content to sponsors or partners. Finally, it strengthens the Ballers community by showcasing content that resonates with its specific audience, fostering pride and loyalty.

Athletes & Celebrity Investors Can Make Great TV

Having big name athletes investing is a great first step, but amplifying that relationship and creating connections with their clients is key. The opportunity to build a custom media experience is especially fitting for a business like Ballers. With multiple locations planned in cities like Boston, Los Angeles, and Miami, a centralized but customizable TV network could serve as a digital connective thread between clubs, standardizing the brand experience while tailoring content to local tastes and programming.

As Ballers builds momentum and expands nationwide, launching a branded, custom content network would not only elevate the in-person experience but also help future-proof the business in a media-driven world. Through a partnership with It’s Relevant TV, businesses like Ballers can transform every screen into a powerful extension of its brand—entertaining, engaging, and informing members in real-time. In an age where content drives loyalty and value, a club that controls its own channel is not just a venue; it’s a modern media powerhouse.

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.

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.

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.

Top 5 Ways Businesses Can Deal With Inflation in 2025

In today’s economic landscape, businesses across all industries face the challenge of rising costs of supplies due to inflation in an all out Tariff War.

For small businesses and large corporations alike, these increases can have significant impacts on profit margins, customer satisfaction, and even business longevity. While raising prices may seem like the natural solution, businesses must carefully consider how to communicate these changes to customers to maintain trust and loyalty.

We will exmaine the Top 5 business strategies for managing cost increases as we explore effective communication methods.

1. Understanding the Impact of Rising Costs and Inflation

Inflation affects nearly every aspect of business, from the cost of raw materials to labor and shipping. As a result, the cost of supplies and services needed to run a business often rises, putting pressure on companies to adjust their prices to cover these expenses. To stay afloat, many businesses are forced to pass some of these costs on to their customers. However, frustrated customers may react negatively if they do not understand the reasons behind the price increases.

The first step in handling this situation is understanding which of your expenses have increased and by how much. This information is crucial, not only for your internal decision-making, but also for transparent communication with your customers.

2. Providing a Reasonable Justification for Price Increases

When implementing price increases, it’s essential to be up front with your customers. Many people are aware that inflation is affecting prices across the board, but providing specific reasons related to your industry and business can go a long way in easing customer concerns. Here are some justifications you can reasonably provide:

Increased Cost of Raw Materials: If the prices of raw materials or essential goods you require have gone up, explain how these increases directly affect your product pricing.
Higher Labor Costs: With labor shortages and increased wage requirements, businesses often need to pay more to retain or hire skilled employees. Explaining this can help customers understand that these expenses contribute to providing consistent quality and service.
Rising Shipping and Logistics Costs: Global supply chain disruptions and increased fuel costs have impacted shipping prices. On top of that the USPS recently raised their rates to keep themselves afloat. If shipping plays a significant role in your product costs, explaining this can justify price changes.
Improvement in Quality or Service: If your business has invested in higher-quality materials or new technologies to improve the customer experience, communicate this as a value-added reason for increased prices. Let customers see they are not just paying more, but getting more in the process.

3. Communicating Price Increases Effectively and Transparently

Clear communication is vital when addressing price increases. Here are some strategies that businesses can use to convey this message thoughtfully and empathetically:

Use It’s Relevant TV to Reach Customers In Your Business

For businesses with physical locations, we recommend employing a cost-effective communication solution in your business locations. Flyers and bulletin boards don’t cut it. Your television is a great tool for this. The leading Custom TV solution, It’s Relevant TV, allows you to create and display tailored content on your own in-store TV network, enabling you to communicate key messages directly to customers while they’re on-site.

It’s Relevant TV can be a crucial communication tool that provides several benefits for businesses:

Educate Customers on Price Changes: Use in-store screens to provide educational content about why prices have increased. Whether it’s a short message explaining the impact of inflation or a quick note on rising supplier costs, you can ensure that customers get the information you want them to see.
Highlight Value and Offer Additional Information: Use these screens to reinforce your products’ qualities or your business’ unique offerings. You can showcase behind-the-scenes footage, quality certifications, or stories about your team to make the customer feel more connected.
Engage Customers Without Extra Costs: Traditional advertising can be costly. With It’s Relevant TV, you can deliver valuable information without incurring extra advertising expenses, keeping customers informed in real time and reducing potential sticker shock.

Direct Outside Communication Channels

Email Marketing: Sending personalized emails to your loyal customers is a direct way to inform them about upcoming price changes. Highlight the reasons for the increases and express your appreciation for their continued support. Low priced tools like Mailchimp can handle the sending and tracking of your emails.
Social Media: Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, X, and LinkedIn allow you to explain changes in a public space where customers can ask questions. This interaction builds transparency and allows customers to feel heard.

Focus on the Value Your Business Offers

Customers are more likely to accept price increases if they feel they’re getting good value in return. Use this opportunity to reinforce your business’s value proposition. Emphasize the quality, durability, and uniqueness of your products, or highlight exceptional customer service and support.

4. Mitigate Price Increases and Manage Customer Expectations

While transparent communication is essential, businesses can also take proactive steps to minimize the impact of inflation on their customers. Here are a few strategies:

Implement Incremental Price Adjustments: Instead of a sudden, large increase, consider gradual adjustments over time. This approach can help customers adjust and spread the impact over a longer period.
Offer Discounts or Loyalty Programs: Reward loyal customers by offering discounts, loyalty rewards, or perks to show your appreciation. This can offset the impact of price increases and build stronger customer relationships.
Find Cost-Saving Alternatives: Look for ways to optimize operations without compromising quality. For example, sourcing materials from alternative suppliers, investing in energy-efficient equipment, or renegotiating contracts with vendors can help reduce costs.
Consider Downsizing Products or Services: In some cases, offering a smaller or limited version of a product or service at a lower price can retain budget-conscious customers while still covering your costs.

5. Balance Your Revenue Needs with Customer Satisfaction

In a time of rising costs, businesses must balance the need to remain profitable with the desire to retain customer loyalty. If you squeeze your customers too much, you will lose them.

You are not alone! Transparent communication, reasonable price adjustments, and low-cost communication tools like It’s Relevant TV and even email, can help businesses maintain customer trust. By openly explaining price changes, showcasing the value of products and services, and using thoughtful communication channels, businesses can not only survive inflation but build even stronger connections with their customers.

Whether you’re a local store or a large chain, remember that your approach to these price changes will directly impact customer perception. By employing the right strategies, you can navigate this challenging economic landscape and position your business for sustainable success.

Branded TV Like Gas Stations Have

Have you seen the TVs above the pump at your local gas station? Wonder how that unique quick-hitting network came to be?

Digital Signage at The Pump

Gas stations utilize custom TV software to deliver programming and digital signage to customers as they wait. Whether you have a gas station, retail store, restaurant, car dealership or office, you too can benefit from having a customized TV network in your business.

While most of the gas station tv networks are owned by closed groups and ad-supported, you can create your own TV network and generate additional revenue for your own business by using custom tv platforms like It’s Relevant TV.

Longer Short-Form Content

If your customers are in your business for more than a minute or two, you’re going to want content that’s longer than what you typically see on Gas Station TV Platforms. Most gas stations have content ranging from 10-30 seconds in length, and often repeat their content every few minutes. Businesses benefit more from displaying content that is longer, and that doesn’t repeat so often.

Create Your Own Ad Network

Once you have a custom TV network in place at your business you can take full advantage of it by forming your own ad network. TV networks, billboard companies, newspapers and more have made a fortune off of ads they’ve sold over the years. So why not you? You can use the same principles that television networks have used for years to generate additional revenue for your business regardless of what industry you are in. With something like It’s Relevant TV or Rele.TV you can make your own Ad Network and keep all of the profits!

How Much Does It Cost To Advertise On TV? | It’s Relevant TV

How Much Does it Cost to Advertise on TV?

Great question! The answer depends on whether or not your ad is going to be local, or national. Local ads cost significantly less, and are the go-to for smaller businesses for obvious reasons; your business with 1 to 3 locations on the East Coast doesn’t need to reach people in California. National ads- on the other hand, will cost much more per spot, but will cost less when divided among the viewers you are reaching.

If you’re reading this, chances are that what you’re interested in is a local advertisement — however both will be covered. Before we start, it is worth noting that there’s a third option that most business owners don’t think of; which is running your ads on the TV within your business itself. If you think that’s counterintuitive to the point of playing an ad on television, keep on reading and see why more and more business owners are adopting this new strategy.

Want to Advertise on TV? Here’s what to Expect

Business owners looking to run a local ad can expect to pay upwards of $1,500 for a 30-second advertisement on a broadcast network — compared to national ads, which can cost as much as $120,000 for an ad of the same length. Cable TV networks in limited areas can cost as little as $50 per spot, but the viewing audience for those ads is very small.

A Quick Calculation:
Just think if there are 200,000 cable subscribers. 50% of them may be watching TV at any given time, so that’s 100,000 audience. Now, those people have the choice between a thousand different cable channels. Most will gravitate towards the broadcast stations like NBC, Fox, CBS and ABC. So you may only be left with 40,000 viewers that are choosing between the other 1,000 channels. Divided evenly between the channels you might expect that ad to be shown to just 40 people. So even for a “cheap” ad on regional cable purchased for $50, you’d be paying $1.20 per viewer in the example above.

Television ads are costly, and that money spent is a lot for a small business — especially when there’s no guarantee that you’re going to make that money back. When it comes to most advertising platforms; cable TV, billboards, newspapers, etc. — you’re paying to have your message exposed to thousands, if not hundreds-of-thousands of people on the off-chance that a large number of them will see it, be interested, and then act on it. That’s a lot of off-chances.

Don’t bet your advertising budget on the Law of Averages. Not when you can achieve the same goals, with the same ad, for far less money.

The Advantages of Advertising on your Own Business’ TV

Some might argue that the point of having a commercial ad is to have it play on broadcast television; in people’s homes. The “I don’t need to advertise to customers who are already in my business” stance comes from a place of logic, but it has its flaws. Most notably, it’s ignoring the simple fact that those customers- who are already in your business, are there because:

1.) They trust you, or they trust your brand

2.) You sell a product that they need, or you offer a service that you provide.

3.) They are statistically more likely to (re)visit your business than someone who had never been there before.

Less often than you might think it’s because they saw your ad at home on TV. The small handful of “those-interested” that you might get out of a TV ad will have an equal mindset to those who are already visiting your business naturally. It’s far easier, and way more cost-effective, to target customers who are already in your location.

Why spend thousands of dollars fishing for 1-in-1,000 people who are interested in your brand when you can instead target 1,000 visitors who you know are already interested?

Selling visitors on additional products and services while they’re right there — where they can buy or act on it that second, is the best strategy for generating more sales and repeat business. If you were advertise on TV, your product, service, or message would REALLY have to motivate the consumer to stop what they’re doing, get up, go out, and visit your business. No matter which way you look at it, the best place for your business’ ad is your business’ TV.

Finding the Right Advertising Platform to Stream your Business’ Ads

DIY solutions cost time, money, and upkeep to maintain; trust a business TV provider to do all the hard work for you.

Finding the right platform can be a little overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the technology. The best place to start looking for business TV software is It’s Relevant TV. The TV experts there know businesses, and they know television; schedule a call with them for a closer look at the technology, or chat with a representative if you have any questions about using custom TV software in your business.

If you’re going to advertise on TV, make it your business’ TV.

New Ways to Advertise on a Limited Budget during COVID-19

The coronavirus (COVID-19) is forcing the ad market into a tight corner as major restaurants and retailers are closing their doors. Since mid-March, major sports organizations such as the NBA, NFL, and MLB have suspended their games; adding the sports entertainment industry to the list of industries impacted by the outbreak.

According to a 2015 study, the sports industry alone accounted for an estimated 37% of total broadcast TV ad spending.

Experts are predicting the ad market to suffer a decline of up to $3 billion in 2020. With so many industries shutting down and customers staying home, businesses across the country are experiencing big budget cuts. However, advertising and marketing are just as important as ever. Despite their limited budgets, business owners are looking for new ways to advertise.

Adjusting to the Ad Market Crisis: How to Advertise on a Limited Budget

Make your spending count.

People quarantining themselves and practicing social distancing doesn’t change the fact that your business has products and services that you need to sell. If you’re intent on keeping your business open, you need to get those services noticed. Traditional television advertising is still among the most expensive advertising mediums, so now’s not going to be the time you’re likely going to want to make a large TV ad spend. But, you can put ads on your own TVs for close to nothing. If you have a television in your business, consider putting your ads for those products and/or services on your TV itself; target consumers while they’re physically in your location.

Advertise directly to your visitors when they’re in your business.

The corona-crisis has created a unique opportunity for in store advertising. People are limiting how frequently they go outside; however if your business sells essentials, or provides a comfort food or service, you can count on repeat business from your loyal customers during this time.

Give them more reasons to come back. Or, gently educate them on any goods, services, or specials to take advantage of while your customers are there. A custom TV network for your business is the best way to achieve either; both because it’s cost effective, and the best way to captivate visitors.

A COVID-free TV is better for your business.

Advertising Platforms to Avoid

WARNING: Avoid Billboards and Outdoor Advertising!

Outdoor advertising is only effective when the message is getting MASS amounts of exposure. The high cost alone is hard to justify, especially in the case of small businesses. However the combination of working with a limited budget, and the limited number of people going outside during the outbreak makes outdoor advertising a poor investment at this time.

Advertising Platforms that are Still Relevant

CONSIDER: Social Media and Free Streaming Platforms

According to Forbes, more people pay for streaming services than cable, with 69% utilizing at least one internet streaming service. Additionally, those who use internet streaming services are subscribed to 3 services on average. Because of the increased amount of people staying at home during the outbreak, experts anticipate a growth in ad spending on geo-targeted streaming platforms like Hulu, and social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter.

A Service to Consider for your Business

Recent changes to the ad market are forcing businesses to get creative. Previously suggested in this article; a custom TV network is the solution that forward-thinking business owners are turning to instead for advertising.

Bridging the gap between TV Networks and a DIY TV display is It’s Relevant TV.

Business owners are uniquely positioned to take advantage of the TVs inside of their locations by transforming them into effective marketing tools. Whether your goal is to improve visitor experience, promote your services, or get people to come back more often, a custom TV network is the best, most cost-effective way to achieve all of the above.

If you are ready to jump into having your own TV network, It’s Relevant TV operates an online store that allows you to pick up everything you need with an inexpensive self-install kit here: http://rele.tv

Market Trends: A Closer Look At Business Ad Spending

The recent pandemic has changed the way that businesses are approaching and handling ad spending. With consumers in quarantine, and businesses closing left and right, it’s not surprising to hear that new marketing trends are emerging as a result. One such trend that the market is observing is reduced ad spending from traditional brick and mortar businesses, but increased spending from tech, and online-based businesses.

Businesses that are Reducing Ad Spending vs Businesses that are Increasing

Bed Bath & Beyond, Marshalls, and Dicks Sporting Goods are prime examples of retailers that are cutting back on their ad spends; whereas tech companies like Apple, website companies like Godaddy, and streaming services like Disney+ are all bulking up their spends.

According to Winmo, Apple alone saw an increase of +$51.6 million in ad spending compared to February of 2020.

Winmo

With so many stores closing, you aren’t going to see the same kinds of ads you’re used to seeing; the ones encouraging shoppers to go out and buy-buy-buy. Because of that, businesses that aren’t limited to a physical location have a bigger advantage.

Also worth noting is the rise in ad spending in the food industry.

Despite their dining areas being closed, franchises such as McDonald’s, Wendys, and Burger King are spending a lot more on ads; reminding customers about the various delivery options that are available. More than just cable TV, you’ll see more and more of these ads on streaming services due to an increased number of people working from home.

Ad Spending Down? Consider a New Approach

Three words: Custom Television Network.

When ad spends are on the low-end, it’s the perfect time to explore some of the new marketing tools that are out there. Specifically, ones having to do with the TV. Just about every business has a TV, and 100% of businesses have something they’re trying to sell. The TV in your business is the best tool to promote your services, and your brand. But that’s only possible with the right business TV software.

Recommended: “The Best Marketing Tool 2020: Your TV“

In addition to being the best place to put your TV advertisements, custom TV networks are incredibly cost-effective. One business TV provider in particular, It’s Relevant TV, features live social media integration and over half-a-million videos to entertain your visitors with. This not only helps generate more followers on social media, but delivers your marketing messages in a more meaningful way.