Having been in business for a couple decades now, “product placement” is less about sales and more about brand awareness. 

(And admittedly I’m not 100% understanding all of your first paragraph, so please forgive me :) )

re: People willing to pay directly…

Because humans sell their attention so cheaply, most people discover (become aware) of new products via others. 

This is the why the rise of the influencer has come on so strong. 

However, and I think more to your point, sophisticated buyers don’t learn from influencers (those that amass hundreds of thousands of followers) Rather sophisticated buyers discover via relationship!

This is why you will see most luxury brands advertise in boutique publications or at boutiques trade shows…their sales require relationships, not transactions.