You seem to be missing the point of conversions, word of mouth, etc. Ads may cost pennies on your company’s user tracking platform, but what about the real cost

You seem to be missing the point of conversions, word of mouth, etc. Ads may cost pennies on your company’s user tracking platform, but what about the real cost of acquiring and retaining a customer? Those need good products and good service in a case like this. Buying ads for what seems like pennies can hurt businesses as they keep chasing “engagement” while waiting for revenue and profits. The reach of an online platform may be high compared to a sign, but that alone can’t help a business survive (especially small businesses that need local customers).