On Demand Advertising
Back in 2005, Virgin Media (then known as ntl:Telewest) was the first provider to make video-on-demand (VOD) widely available across the UK. It remains the leading VOD service by some margin.
Accessed via the Electronic Programme Guide (EPG), the Virgin Media service allows subscribers to watch top programmes at their leisure, or to catch up on TV they may have missed during the week. Viewers can also watch entire series in their own time, while hundreds of films and music videos are available to rent for 24 hours.
All in all, it’s considered the most extensive on demand service available via the TV screen – even more so since the introduction of the BBC’s iPlayer and Channel 4’s 4oD on the TV platform in early 2008. It’s also presenting lots of interesting opportunities for advertisers. Options include:
Pre-roll
One of the most popular video-on-demand formats, consisting of a short video ad that plays just before requested video content.
Showcase
A dedicated environment on Virgin Media where advertisers can create their own branded, on demand channels.
Advertiser funded content
Rather than associating yourself with existing content, one option is to create original content that carries a sympathetic brand message.
Sponsorship
As well as advertising around existing content, or producing your own, there is also the option to sponsor specific video-on-demand content on relevant subjects such as sports or music.
For more information please contact
Guy Martin at ids on 020 7693 8814
or e-mail guy_martin@idigitalsales.co.uk
