CTV Advertising for eCommerce Brands
Ecommerce is booming, and competition is fierce. Every brand is fighting for attention across social media, search engines, and email inboxes. But there’s another tactic that eCommerce companies can use to break through—Connected TV (CTV) advertising.
CTV gives you a powerful way to tell your brand story on the biggest screen in the house—your customer’s TV—without needing a Super Bowl-level budget. If you’re an eCommerce brand in Los Angeles, it might be time to reach people in their living rooms.
This guide breaks down what CTV advertising is, why it works so well for eCommerce, and how to get started.
What Is Connected TV (CTV) Advertising?
CTV refers to streaming platforms and devices that let users watch TV content through an internet connection—think Hulu, Roku, YouTube TV, Amazon Fire Stick, or even gaming consoles. These aren’t cable ads—they’re digital TV commercials that appear before or during content on streaming platforms.
So instead of hoping someone scrolls past your Instagram ad, you’re catching them during their favorite show or movie—on a much bigger screen, with way less noise.
Benefits of Connected TV
CTV is growing fast, and it’s not just for big corporations anymore. Here’s why more eCommerce brands are shifting part of their ad budget to streaming TV:
1. Targeted Audience Reach
You’re not blasting your message to random households. CTV lets you target viewers by:
- Demographics (age, gender)
- Geography (down to zip codes)
- Interests and behaviors
- Purchase history or intent
Want to reach dog owners in West LA who’ve recently visited an online pet supply store? You can do that.
2. High Engagement on a Premium Platform
People are more focused when watching TV than when they’re scrolling on their phones. Your ad isn’t just another swipe—it’s front and center, with sound on, and often can’t be skipped. You’re literally in the room with them.
3. Cost-Effective with No Wasted Spend
CTV ads are bought using a cost-per-thousand impressions (CPM) model, so you’re only paying when people actually see your ad. No more wasting money on TV time blocks where you *hope* the right audience is watching.
4. Real-Time Analytics
You’ll get detailed performance data just like you do with digital ads. Track impressions, clicks (if paired with QR codes), site visits, and even conversions—something traditional TV could never offer.
5. Seamless Creative Integration
Already have video assets from YouTube or social media? You can often repurpose them for CTV, especially if they meet length and quality standards. Or you can create something new, custom-built for the platform—which we can help you with).
Why CTV Works for eCommerce Brands
Streaming TV is one of the most effective ways you can promote your online business. Here’s why it’s especially good for eCommerce:
Builds Brand Trust
Consumers trust brands they’ve “seen on TV.” It gives you instant credibility and helps you look like a major player—even if you’re still building your customer base.
Complements Your Digital Strategy
CTV ads don’t replace your Facebook or Google ads—they amplify them. Run retargeting campaigns for people who’ve already seen your TV ad, or use it to build brand awareness before launching a big email or SMS push.
Inspires Action Across Devices
People often watch CTV with their phones in hand. You can drive viewers to:
- Scan a QR code
- Visit your website
- Use a promo code
- Download your app
This type of cross-device experience makes it easy for viewers to engage right then and there.
How Much Does It Cost?
CTV is surprisingly accessible. You don’t need a $100,000 campaign to make an impact.
Ad Spend
- Most platforms require a minimum spend of $5,000–$10,000/month, depending on targeting.
- Average CPM ranges from $20–$50, depending on audience and placement.
Production
- A professionally produced 15–30 second ad can cost anywhere from $20,000 to $50,000.
- If you’ve got existing content that works, your production costs could be even lower.
Not sure where to start? Many boutique agencies, like COLAB Los Angeles, offer CTV packages tailored for SMBs, including concept, scripting, filming, and media buying.
How to Launch a CTV Campaign in 5 Simple Steps
Step 1: Define Your Goals
Do you want to drive site traffic, increase conversions, or just boost awareness? Your creative and targeting will depend on this.
Step 2: Know Your Audience
Use your CRM or eCommerce analytics to create audience profiles. What are their behaviors, locations, devices, and shopping patterns?
Step 3: Create Compelling Creative
Remember, you’ve only got a few seconds to grab attention. Your ad should:
- Open with a strong visual or hook
- Showcase your product or offer
- Include a clear call to action (like “Shop Now” or “Scan to Save”)
- Keep it short—15 or 30 seconds max
Step 4: Choose Your Platforms & Buy Media
Work with COLAB Los Angeles to get your ad on Hulu, Pluto TV, Amazon Fire TV, or similar platforms. Use geo-targeting to focus on L.A. or your key delivery zones.
Step 5: Track, Learn, Optimize
Monitor metrics like impressions, completion rates, conversions, and lift in direct or branded search traffic. Adjust targeting or creative based on performance.
Tips for CTV Success
- Keep it simple – Don’t try to cram in too much. One clear message is better than a crowded story.
- Use QR codes – Makes it easy for viewers to act instantly from their phones.
- Test and iterate – Try multiple versions of your ad and see which one drives better results.
- Pair with retargeting – After viewers see your CTV ad, retarget them with Facebook, Instagram, or Google ads to increase conversion rates.
Connected TV Advertising and Your eCommerce Brand
If you’re an eCommerce business looking to scale your brand presence, CTV is one of the smartest ad channels you can start using today. It combines the power of traditional TV with the precision of digital, giving you the best of both worlds. And best of all—you don’t need a million-dollar budget to get started.
Ready to get started? We specialize in helping Los Angeles-based eCommerce brands launch their first CTV campaigns—from creative production to media buying and optimization.