When it comes to TV advertising costs in the UK, the real question isn’t just about money, it’s about value and strategy. Let’s break down what you need to know to get the most impact from your investment.
At its core, TV advertising costs split into two main categories: Creative (the actual production of your ad) and Media (placing your ad on TV). These two elements are where your budget will go, and understanding the balance between them can guide you to success. The media portion, which typically takes up most of the budget, ensures your ad reaches as many relevant viewers as possible. This is essential for brands looking to maximise their reach with the right message.
This varies greatly based on ambition.
A straightforward ad can cost under £10,000 – £15,000, while a more complex concept might require a larger budget.
Getting your ad seen depends on a variety of factors, such as time of day, audience targeting, channel choice, and time of year. The variety of options—from traditional broadcast to targeted video-on-demand (VOD) advertising, makes it possible to adjust your spend based on your brand’s unique goals.
Looking to take your company’s visual content to the next level? Our expert video production team is here to help! Contact us now to start the conversation and let us guide you towards a truly standout video production.
TV advertising is generally sold on a cost-per-thousand (CPM) basis, meaning you pay a set price per 1,000 viewers reached. However, several factors influence this price:
Costs fluctuate throughout the year, with autumn usually seeing higher prices than summer.
Networks set prices based on viewer demographics, which means knowing your audience is key to buying smart.
When demand for TV spots is high, expect costs to rise.
The industry standard is a 30-second slot. Shorter or longer ads affect costs proportionally.
Prime-time slots are premium, while daytime ads offer a more affordable option.
You can target specific regions with ITV, Channel 4, and Sky, though regional targeting generally increases CPM.
Digital options like VOD let you reach more targeted audiences but often at a higher CPM.
If you’re ready to dive into TV advertising or want a clearer idea of what’s possible within your budget, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to demystify the TV marketplace and help you plan an effective, impactful campaign tailored to your brand’s vision.
Each budget level offers unique advantages depending on a brand’s objectives, target audience, and desired creative impact. Consulting with an experienced production company can further optimise a brand’s spend, ensuring each pound contributes to maximising viewer impact.
Content Reusability: ideal for small businesses or those looking to re-purpose existing footage, such as previous social media clips or photos.
Limited Scope: It usually involves minimal crew, simple editing, and may use pre-recorded voiceovers or licensed music rather than custom audio.
Basic Graphics: text overlays, simple animations, straightforward imagery.
Short Running Time: Ads in this range typically stay around 10–15 seconds to maximise impact without an extensive production.
Custom Filming: This range allows for more creative control, including on-location filming and custom content rather than reusing old footage.
Professional Crew and Equipment: You’ll likely have access to a small but professional crew and higher-quality cameras, lighting, and sound equipment.
Enhanced Graphics and Effects: graphic design work, basic animations, and custom audio tracks, such as music licenses and tailored voiceovers.
Storytelling Capability: more production time, means including some storytelling elements.
Multi-location Shoots: adding depth and variety to the visuals
Professional Actors and Extras: Hiring talent adds to the cost, but improves the ad’s quality and appeal, as actors bring brand messages to life with personality and relatability.
Advanced Editing and Graphics: more sophisticated editing techniques, custom animations, and some 3D effects.
Longer Running Times: Ads can extend to 30 seconds or more, allowing more space for complex storylines, brand messaging, and viewer connection.
High Production Value: These ads rival mini-movie quality with a crew, high-end equipment, and cinematography, sound design, and post-production teams.
Creative Concepts and Special Effects: highly creative concepts, and even CGI.
Custom Soundtrack and Voice Work: which adds a unique audio element to the ad.
Extended Storytelling: more in-depth stories, production of a “mini-campaign” with connected themes.
A high-quality TV ad can do more than just broadcast, it can be repurposed for platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, helping you extend your reach and maximise value.
TV advertising is flexible, with campaigns tailored to your goals and audience. Our team works with you to craft a strategy that targets the right viewers across key channels, ensuring your budget delivers maximum impact.
For newcomers, our entry-level packages make TV advertising accessible, while experienced advertisers can choose customised plans for specific channels and audiences. Each package (here for + info) includes ad production and media costs, offering a complete solution to meet your needs.
Having all the above in mind, you can reach out now via our contact form, and experience the professional work that Impress Video Production offers. We are always beside your marketing needs and ready for action.
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