NELSON: Video on Demand Viewers Don’t Mind Watching Ads for Free Content

Digital and Radio Facts: VOD VIEWERS DON’T MIND WATCHING ADS FOR FREE CONTENTThe rise of video-on-demand (VOD) programming choices is not only a great benefit to viewers—it also opens more opportunities for advertisers and content creators to reach them. But advertising strategies should be navigated carefully, as viewers are looking to cut through the clutter.Many consumers see value in ads, but the value proposition must be right. In fact, more than half of global respondents who say they watch VOD (51%) programming also say they somewhat or strongly agree that ads in VOD content give them good ideas for new products to try. And importantly, nearly six-in-10 (59%) say they don’t mind getting advertising if they can view free content. This sentiment is particularly strong in North America, where 68% are willing to trade their time and attention for free programming.What’s clear, however, is the need for more relevant ads that speak directly to consumers. Two-thirds of global respondents say most ads in VOD content are for products they don’t want (66%).