Streaming networks may have found a new way to sell people on ad-free subscriptions: elections.
In a survey of nearly 1,800 U.S. adults by research firm Savanta, nearly 10% chose to avoid ads during the midterm election cycle by upgrading to ad-free options, canceling subscriptions entirely, or tuning out networks.
Of course, the latter two are not favorable for streaming networks. And it’s unclear how many of those new ad-free subscribers will stick around past election season.
“People will always try to find ways to avoid advertising, and I think behaviors will change depending on the environment, how much advertising it is, and whether it’s persistent,” said Shaun Austin, global head of media at Savanta.
