Spot Runner, a start-up TV ad agency created by the founders of Firefly and PeoplePC, is a service that allows small local advertisers to customize one of a growing library of TV commercials to use in their local market. The user pays only $500 to use the professionally produced template and then can build a media schedule and run the ad using Spotrunner’s ad placement interface that boasts local targeted spots for less than $10 in non-prime time.

I’ve always had trouble recommending TV for small business marketers because the cost is pretty hard to justify for most.

A professionally produced television ad costs at least $5000. Now, Spot Runner’s ads are indeed generic templates, but the quality is pretty good. This service could be a very good way to add another medium to the mix to help with awareness. The low cost is what may make this form of television advertising make sense when it is added to the overall mix that includes direct mail, referrals and public relations.

I caught up with Spot Runner co-founder, David Waxman, and recorded an interview for the Duct Tape Marketing podcast. Go have a listen and find out more about this innovative offering.