Report: Online Ads Getting Record Results
Record-breaking numbers may be on the way for tech companies that run online ads, reports claim, as the numbers for the final quarter of last year are about to be released. These include giants like Google, Amazon and Facebook, though they also include numerous smaller companies. It seems like, no matter where you look, online ads have gotten a lot of traffic and online shopping, predictably, is hotter than ever. As the reports come out over the next few weeks, it will be interesting to see just how well these ads performed and to consider whether or not this is a new normal in the United States.
Reasons for the Surge
The main reason for the surge, these reports state, is the pandemic. It has forced people to stay home and many businesses to experience closures. This means that shopping online became not just popular, but the only option for many. This had an impact even as changes began to happen back in March of 2020, but things reached a new level in the fourth quarter because of the holiday shopping season. Events like Christmas shopping and Black Friday typically pack malls and stores across the country. Those that were open often had limited capacity, and many wise shoppers also simply opted to stay home and do that shopping online. This meant not just greater sales, but greater ad exposure and more traffic.
A Longer Holiday Period
Another part of the equation is that the traditional holiday period appeared longer than most other years, though still within that fourth quarter. For instance, between Thanksgiving and Christmas in 2020, the numbers show two extra peak shopping days, when compared to 2019. Some companies also started promotions earlier, such as Black Friday deals that ran for a week or Amazon Prime Day sales that started in October. One could speculate that people spending more time at home left them with less to do and so browsing, researching and shopping became a pastime.
Not All Industries
It is worth noting that not all industries shared the same success. Reports specifically noted that travel was down, of course, which can be costly. However, through the lens of online ads in general, advertisers could simply push other industries. Digital products, for instance, could see even more demand and very little reduction in sales.
One thing that is interesting is that this rise in shopping happened during a time in which many people felt economic strain. It does not appear to have stopped them from using the internet to make purchases. This could indicate that the numbers will stay strong in the first quarter of 2021, even without the holiday season. If people have money to spend and still do not have ways to spend it in person, the internet provides the easiest outlet.
A Lasting Change?
It’s hard to know if this will be a lasting change. With a vaccine now beginning to make the rounds, it’s likely that the traditional economy will finally be able to open up again during this year. People will not be forced to take the online route. But, will many shoppers have discovered how easy and convenient it is? Will they have formed new habits? Will they expect longer “Black Friday” deals and promotions in the future? No matter how it all plays out, we’re here to help with your online success at Content Customs.