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.

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.

Why Every Business Should Create a Loyalty Program: Unlocking the Power of Retention and Monetization

In today’s highly competitive business landscape, customer retention has become a critical factor in driving long-term growth. While acquiring new customers is important, retaining existing ones can be significantly more profitable. One of the most effective strategies for enhancing customer loyalty—and in turn, increasing revenue—is the implementation of a loyalty program.

Despite the common misconception that loyalty programs primarily offer discounts, a well-designed loyalty program can actually increase a business’s profitability. In this article, we’ll explore why businesses should create a loyalty program, how it can lead to increased revenue, and the crucial role that customer data plays in maximizing the effectiveness of these programs.

What is a Loyalty Program?

You’ve certainly heard of them, and it’s more than likely that you are a member of more than one. A loyalty program is a marketing strategy designed to reward customers for their repeat business or long-term engagement. Typically, businesses offer points, rewards, discounts, or other incentives that customers can redeem after meeting specific criteria such as making a purchase, referring friends, or engaging with the brand.

Loyalty or “Reward” programs can take various forms, including:

  • Points-Based Programs: Customers earn points with each purchase that can later be exchanged for discounts, products, or services.
  • Tiered Programs: Customers can unlock different rewards as they progress through various levels based on their spending or engagement.
  • Cashback Programs: Businesses offer a percentage of the purchase price back in the form of store credits or direct cashback.
  • Referral Programs: Customers are rewarded for bringing new customers to the business.

Why Should You Create a Loyalty Program?

Creating a loyalty program offers a multitude of benefits that can drive growth, improve customer retention, and boost your overall revenue. Here’s a deeper look at the key reasons why your business should consider implementing one.

1. Increased Customer Retention and Lifetime Value

The primary goal of any loyalty program is to increase customer retention. Retained customers are more likely to make repeat purchases, and their lifetime value is significantly higher than that of new customers.

Data shows that increasing customer retention by just 5% can increase profits by 25% to 95% (Source: Harvard Business Review). This is because loyal customers are more likely to spend more over time, make larger purchases, and are more receptive to upsells and cross-sells.

In fact, loyal customers are 50% more likely to try new products and spend 31% more than new customers (Source: Bain & Company). This means that a loyalty program isn’t just about rewarding customers; it’s about encouraging them to deepen their relationship with your brand.

2. Improved Customer Acquisition Through Referrals

Loyalty programs aren’t just about retaining existing customers—they also help businesses acquire new customers. Many loyalty programs include referral bonuses or rewards for bringing in new customers. According to a study by Nielsen, 83% of consumers trust recommendations from people they know, and 92% of consumers trust peer recommendations over advertisements.

When you reward loyal customers for referring others, you essentially turn them into brand advocates, significantly boosting your acquisition efforts without spending extra money on traditional advertising.

3. Loyalty Programs Increase Customer Spending

While it may seem counterintuitive that offering discounts or rewards could lead to higher revenues, the data consistently shows that loyalty programs lead to higher average transaction values.

A study by Bond Brand Loyalty found that 77% of consumers are more likely to make a purchase if they belong to a loyalty program. Moreover, loyal members tend to spend 12-18% more than non-members. This is because loyalty programs incentivize customers to purchase more frequently or in higher quantities to unlock more rewards.

For example, if your loyalty program is based on earning points per dollar spent, customers will naturally aim to accumulate more points by purchasing more items or opting for higher-value products. Additionally, loyalty programs can encourage customers to engage in repeat purchases (such as subscribing to auto-delivery services or making pre-scheduled orders) to maximize their rewards.

4. Gathering Data for Personalization and Targeting

One of the most powerful aspects of loyalty programs is the wealth of customer data that they generate. When customers sign up for a loyalty program, businesses can collect detailed information on their buying behaviors, preferences, frequency of purchases, and demographics.

Here’s how this data can drive monetization:

  • Personalized Offers: By analyzing purchase history, businesses can send personalized offers or discounts that cater to each customer’s preferences. Studies show that personalized marketing can increase transaction rates by up to 10% (Source: McKinsey & Company).
  • Targeted Marketing Campaigns: Loyalty data allows businesses to segment their customer base, enabling more targeted marketing campaigns. For example, you can send specific promotions to high-value customers or offer special deals to customers who have not engaged with your brand in a while.
  • Predictive Analytics: By analyzing trends in customer behavior, businesses can predict future purchases, stock up on popular products, and proactively offer deals on products customers are likely to buy. This reduces inventory waste and ensures that marketing efforts are timely and relevant.

Moreover, loyalty program data can inform product development. By identifying which products customers love the most, you can focus on expanding those product lines or improving similar items, increasing your chances of success in the market.

5. Cost-Effective Customer Retention vs. Acquisition

Acquiring new customers can be 5 to 25 times more expensive than retaining existing ones (Source: Harvard Business Review). Loyalty programs provide a more cost-effective way to retain customers, as they focus on rewarding and engaging existing customers rather than spending vast amounts of money on acquisition strategies like digital ads or promotions.

The beauty of loyalty programs is that, while offering discounts or rewards, businesses are fostering long-term relationships that lead to higher customer lifetime value. Essentially, by rewarding customers for continued loyalty, you’re reducing the need for costly incentives to drive one-time sales, making it a highly efficient way to grow your business.

In today’s competitive market, offering a loyalty program can differentiate your brand from others that don’t. As consumers are increasingly becoming more conscious of their purchasing decisions, they value businesses that reward their loyalty. A well-crafted loyalty program not only incentivizes repeat business but also enhances your brand’s image, turning transactional relationships into deeper emotional connections with customers.

Research from Accenture shows that 77% of consumers are more likely to stay loyal to brands that offer them personalized deals and rewards. This gives you an edge over competitors who may not offer similar benefits, especially in industries where customers have plenty of options.

The Bottom Line: Monetizing Through Loyalty Programs

Creating a loyalty program isn’t just about offering discounts; it’s about building a sustainable revenue model that focuses on retaining customers, increasing spending, and gaining valuable insights into your customers’ behaviors.

Here’s a recap of the key reasons why your business should create a loyalty program:

  • Increased Customer Retention: Loyal customers spend more, and increasing retention by 5% can boost profits by 25-95%.
  • Higher Customer Lifetime Value: Loyalty programs drive repeat purchases, leading to long-term profitability.
  • Improved Acquisition: Loyalty programs leverage referrals, turning existing customers into brand ambassadors.
  • Data Collection and Personalization: You can gather valuable data to tailor your offerings and marketing, leading to more effective campaigns and higher ROI.
  • Cost-Effective Retention: Retaining customers is far less expensive than acquiring new ones, making loyalty programs a cost-effective strategy for growth.
  • Competitive Differentiation: A great loyalty program sets you apart from competitors, helping you attract and keep customers in a crowded marketplace.

By implementing a well-structured loyalty program, you not only increase customer engagement but also enhance your monetization strategies through data-driven insights and personalized experiences. If you haven’t yet invested in a loyalty program, now is the time to consider how it could transform your business into a more profitable, sustainable, and customer-focused enterprise.

It’s easy to build your own loyalty program thanks to the many companies out there that have ready-built systems, and are able to white label the experience – matching it to your brand.Services like Bubblehouse, Smile.io and Points.com are great places to start your search.

References:

  • Harvard Business Review – “The Value of Keeping the Right Customers”
  • Bain & Company – “The Loyalty Effect: The Hidden Force Behind Growth”
  • Bond Brand Loyalty – “The Loyalty Report 2020”
  • McKinsey & Company – “The Power of Personalization”
  • Nielsen – “Global Trust in Advertising”

Top 10 Free & Low-Cost Services You Should Be Using in Your Business in 2025

In today’s ever-changing economic landscape, businesses must constantly adapt to remain competitive. With inflation driving up costs, and constantly shifting tariffs disrupting supply chains, business owners and marketing managers are rethinking their strategies. The good news? A variety of low-cost, pre-built tools can help businesses become more efficient and resilient. Here are the top 10 services that companies in the U.S. are using in 2025 to streamline operations and enhance productivity.

1. Google Workspace – Cloud-Based Collaboration

Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) provides cloud-based productivity tools, including Gmail, Google Drive, Docs, and Sheets. These tools allow for real-time collaboration and document sharing, eliminating inefficiencies caused by version control issues and email overload. Part of the service is a white-labelled Gmail, that uses your business’s own domain name but brings the power of Gmail to your email.

Price: Business Starter at $6/user/month, Business Standard at $12/user/month.
Savings: Eliminates the need for costly office software while enabling real-time collaboration, reducing time spent on document management by 40%.

2. Slack – Real-Time Communication

Slack replaces inefficient email chains with instant messaging, making it easier for teams to share files, coordinate tasks, and stay connected. It’s like have desktop and mobile text messaging dedicated to your business. Its integration with other workplace tools makes communication seamless and improves workflow.

Price: Free for small teams; Paid plans start at $7.25 per user/month.
Savings: By replacing lengthy email chains, Slack can save businesses 20-30% of their communication time, increasing efficiency and reducing costly miscommunication errors.

3. It’s Relevant TV – Smart In-Store Digital Marketing

For businesses with physical locations, It’s Relevant TV offers an affordable and engaging alternative to traditional signage and cable television. By replacing repetitive and often offensive TV programming with custom-branded content, businesses can boost customer engagement, promote their own services, and enhance the customer experience.

Price: Typically provides a cost savings over what a business is currently paying for cable. Starts at around $89/month and offers a FREE option for businesses with a sponsor.
Savings: Eliminates the cost of expensive traditional advertisements while improving customer engagement, leading to higher sales and repeat business.

4. Zapier – Automation Without Coding

Zapier automates repetitive tasks by connecting various apps and services. Businesses use it to save time and improve accuracy by streamlining workflows between platforms like Gmail, Slack, and Trello.

Price: Free for basic automation; Paid plans start at $19.99/month.
Savings: Automating repetitive tasks can save businesses 10+ hours per week per employee, leading to significant cost reductions over time.

5. QuickBooks – Easier Financial Management

Managing finances efficiently is crucial for lean operations. QuickBooks provides small and medium-sized businesses with an easy-to-use platform for tracking expenses, handling payroll, and generating reports.

Price: Starts at $30/month for Simple Start; advanced plans up to $200/month.
Savings: Automating financial processes can cut bookkeeping costs by up to 50%, reducing the need for additional accounting personnel.

6. HubSpot – All-in-One Marketing & Sales

HubSpot’s CRM and marketing automation tools help businesses attract and retain customers while optimizing marketing campaigns. By reducing the manual effort needed for lead generation and customer management, businesses can stay lean without sacrificing growth.

Price: Free CRM; Paid marketing and sales plans start at $20/month, with advanced plans over $800/month.
Savings: Businesses using HubSpot often report a 30% increase in lead conversion rates and thousands saved on separate marketing tools.

7. Shopify – Hassle-Free E-Commerce

Shopify simplifies the process of selling products online. With built-in inventory management, payment processing, and marketing tools, it allows businesses to scale while also supporting traditional brick-and-mortar operations.

Price: Basic plan starts at $39/month, Advanced plan up to $399/month.
Savings: Businesses save thousands annually in web development costs, with an estimated 20-30% time savings on managing online sales.

8. Asana – Workflows Made Simple

Asana helps teams manage tasks and projects with clarity. Businesses use it to assign responsibilities, track progress, and set deadlines, making collaboration more efficient and reducing wasted effort. 85% of the Fortune 100 companies use Asana.

Price: Free for basic plans; Premium plans start at $10.99 per user/month.
Savings: Teams using Asana report a 45% increase in efficiency by reducing time spent on status meetings and tracking work manually.

9. Trello – Project Management Simplified

Trello is an intuitive project management tool that helps teams collaborate effortlessly. By using customizable boards, lists, and cards, businesses can keep projects on track while reducing wasted time and miscommunication.

Price: Free for basic use; Business Class at $10 per user/month; Enterprise pricing available.
Savings: Trello helps reduce project mismanagement, saving teams an estimated 10+ hours per week by streamlining workflows and improving communication.

10. Hootsuite – Social Media Management Made Easy

Hootsuite helps businesses streamline their social media marketing by scheduling posts, tracking engagement, and analyzing performance across multiple platforms. This saves time and ensures a consistent online presence without requiring a full-time social media team.

Price: Free for one user; Paid plans start at $99/month.
Savings: Automating social media scheduling can save marketing teams up to 15 hours per week, freeing up time for higher-value tasks.

Implementation Leads to Success

As economic pressures mount, businesses must find innovative ways to stay competitive while cutting unnecessary costs. The Top 10 tools above provide powerful, cost-effective solutions to help companies become lean and efficient. Whether it’s through automation, improved communication, or smarter marketing, these services help businesses navigate today’s challenges with confidence.

By embracing technology and leveraging pre-built solutions, companies can streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive sustainable growth—no matter what economic shifts lie ahead. Try one, or try them all. The more you can go with less, the better your business can become in 2025!

COVID-19 Vaccination Sites | Communicating With Your Visitors

Vaccination sites require visitors to wait 15 minutes after getting the COVID vaccine; that’s 15 minutes you could be using to your benefit as a vaccine provider.

The TV provides an opportunity to communicate with your patients while they’re sitting around waiting for time to pass. Whether it’s getting first-time visitors to come back for other reasons or encouraging more volunteers to donate things like plasma; you have a prime opportunity to educate those people-in-waiting. This article is all about the best way to take advantage of that time, and it all starts with the TV in your waiting room.

The Best Waiting Room TV for Vaccination Sites

The best waiting room TV for medical offices isn’t cable, nor is it a medical display; that goes double for “FREE” medical TV services. The best TV software for your clinic is It’s Relevant TV. It’s Relevant is geared towards patient comfort, providing hospitals, clinics, and medical offices with a means to keep their visitors entertained. Entertainment here is key, because medical displays are NOT fun. They’re boring, and often times unsettling.

It’s Relevant helps pass the time by putting something fun on the TV.

IRTV brings a variety of engaging content to the table separated into a list of 40+ unique categories. The categories are like “channels,” which can be turned on/off based on the interests of your visitors. So whether you’re someone who likes celebrity interviews and cooking, or prefer home gardening and automotive, there’s something for all audiences.

It’s Relevant TV features short-form content. This increases the liklihood of your visitors seeing something that will get their attention.

More importantly, It’s Relevant gives you the freedom to upload your own videos and messages. Playing your messaging alongside content that your visitors are genuinely interested in watching is the best, most-effective way to get those messages across. Because It’s Relevant isn’t just a medical display, you can count on the only medical-related messaging being your own approved videos. This is important, because you’re not always in control of what shows up on your TV when it comes to other services. With IRTV, you’re in control.

Getting It’s Relevant TV for your Vaccination Sites

You can find out more about It’s Relevant TV here. Chat with the TV experts about any questions you have regarding custom TV networks, or schedule a demo to see the technology firsthand. Custom TV software is the future of medical office television as more and more clinics are seeing the advantages to canceling cable in favor of a customizable, personally-branded network.

Free Waiting Room TV Service | Businesses & Medical Offices

Looking for free waiting room TV service for your business or medical office? Cutting cable in favor of waiting room TV software is a step in the right direction; but settling on one of the self-proclaimed “free” TV services is just as bad, if not worse, than what you just got rid of. If you take anything away from this article, let it be not to fall for “free.” You always get what you pay for. Certain waiting room TV services, like this one, are as close to free as you’ll get; with features that make it worthwhile, and tools to even offset the cost.

If you’re paying $0/month for waiting room television, it shouldn’t be because it’s costing you $0/month. It should be because it’s generating enough revenue to cover the monthly cost.

Why is a Free Waiting Room TV Service a Bad Idea?

When something is advertised as “free,” it generally means that it isn’t costing you any money. However, that doesn’t mean that it isn’t costing you something else. Free is good when that free thing is complimentary, or a bonus; a thank-you for choosing X, Y or Z, with the hopes of leaving a good first impression. When that free thing is a TV service, or a brand-new television; or both, chances are that provider is taking advantage of you in some way.

How can you tell if you’re being taken advantage of?

If something is too good to be true, more often than not that’s usually the case. A free TV + content that you pay 0$/month for? It might seem like a win-win, but beneath the surface there’s something disingenuous going on. There’s no two ways of looking at it — whether you’re a restaurant, a gym, salon, dentist, or even a hospital, you have something these service providers want; a captivated audience.

Day-in and day-out, you’ve got visitors coming in and waiting — sometimes for 10, 15, or even 30 minutes. That’s a long time, and that’s precisely what these providers are looking for; to turn your TV into an electronic billboard. For who? Themselves, and their happy advertisers. They might throw you a bone and give you the ability to upload your own ads on the side, but not without your messages competing for the spotlight.

If you thought commercials were bad…

Try endless looping commercials for drugs, treatments, or nonsense-conditions that you or your doctors don’t endorse; it’s on your TV, visitors will associate it with your brand, and nothing short of turning it off will stop to it.

Recommended Read: “Top 5 Reasons a Free TV Service is Bad for Medical Offices

An Alternative to Free Waiting Room TV Software that’s still Free, and 100% Safe

One of the downsides of a free waiting room TV service, as described above, is that fact that someone else is reaping all of the benefits while you’re stuck with their ads playing on your TV. But what if that “someone else” was someone you chose to instead? Someone you trust, or a non-competing brand that your business supports.

It’s Relevant TV, a company that provides custom TV networks to businesses, is unique in that it offers shoppers a $0/month Sponsor-Supported package in which you choose a trusted company, organization, or fellow business owner to cover the cost of your monthly subscription. In exchange, they get to feature their brand and messaging on your TV in a way that is mutual, non-intrusive, and most-importantly; safe for your business.

Check to see if there are any local businesses that you can partner with!

Choosing a brand that pairs well with your business, who has your best interests at heart, is a lot better than letting someone you don’t know; who you’ve never heard of, profit off of your business’ TV. Partnerships are, and always will be, a great marketing strategy.

A Safer Way to Shop for Waiting Room TV Software

The best way make sure that you’re getting a TV system that’s built to serve your brand is to consult with someone in the industry itself. The TV experts at ItsRelevant.com are there answer any questions you might have about what to look for when it comes to waiting room TV technology. Schedule a call with them, or ask to arrange a demo if you’re serious about a custom TV network.

If anyone should be making money off of the TV in your business or medical office, it’s you, or a partnered brand. Your TV, your space, and your visitors are extraordinarily valuble to these advertising companies; so much so that these “free TV services” are able to deal out free TVs and iPads like playing cards. The cost of that technology is nothing compared to what they’re making off of you.