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Definition of Post-roll Ad in Advertising

A post-roll ad is a video advertising format that appears at the end of online video content. Unlike pre-roll ads that play before a video, post-roll ads are displayed after the main video has completed its playback. These advertisements typically run for 5-15 seconds and are designed to capture viewers’ attention during the final moments of their video watching experience. Digital publishers and advertisers use post-roll ads as a strategic method to engage audiences who have already consumed the primary video content.

Usage of Post-roll Ads

Post-roll ads are predominantly utilized in digital video platforms, streaming services, online media websites, and video content networks. Marketers strategically employ these ads to reinforce brand messaging, promote additional products, or drive specific call-to-action responses from viewers who have already demonstrated interest by watching the entire video. Advertisers often customize post-roll ads to align with the content’s theme or target audience, increasing the likelihood of viewer engagement. These ads work particularly well for educational content, entertainment videos, and tutorial-style media where viewers are more likely to watch until the end.

Related Terms

Pre-roll Ad: An advertisement that plays before the main video content, opposite of post-roll ads.
Mid-roll Ad: Video advertisements inserted in the middle of video content, interrupting the primary video.
Video Advertising: A broader category of digital marketing that includes various video ad placements like post-roll, pre-roll, and mid-roll formats.
Programmatic Advertising: An automated method of purchasing video ad placements, which can include post-roll ad spaces.
Impression: A metric measuring how many times an advertisement is displayed to potential viewers.

Frequently Asked Questions about Post-roll Ads

Are post-roll ads effective?
Post-roll ads can be effective when strategically designed and targeted to the right audience. While they typically have lower engagement rates compared to pre-roll ads, they can still generate brand awareness and conversions.

How long are post-roll ads?
Most post-roll ads range between 5-15 seconds, with some platforms allowing up to 30 seconds. The shorter duration helps maintain viewer attention.

Where are post-roll ads commonly used?
Post-roll ads are commonly used on YouTube, streaming platforms, online news websites, educational content sites, and digital marketing video channels.

Do viewers watch post-roll ads?
Viewer engagement varies, but many viewers tend to close the video or navigate away during post-roll ads. However, well-crafted ads with compelling content can still capture audience attention.

Creatopy Team
Creatopy is the AI-driven creative automation platform that enables brands and agencies alike to build, optimize and personalize creatives at scale for various markets, channels and digital platforms.

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