Canal+ and beIN SPORTS have confirmed they have initiated discussions to establish a partnership in the form of an exclusive distribution agreement. Under this agreement, all beIN SPORTS channels in France would be available through CANAL+ offers exclusively. It would cover a five-year period.
Canal+ notes that the media sector in France has seen the emergence of powerful and globalised players that represent new forms of competition for Canal+ and beIN SPORTS. The partnership would allow both channels to bring to their customers an improved offer, while providing sports competitions with a wider exposure.
The deal would allow Canal+ Group to market a comprehensive and coherent sports offer. beIN SPORTS would benefit from the expertise and distribution know-how of Canal+ to collectively attract larger numbers of subscribers.
Canal+ and beIN SPORTS, which would both retain their identities, brands and editorial autonomy, would continue to respond independently to sports rights tenders. In a Statement, Canal+ said it was indeed in the interest of all stake-holders (Leagues, clubs, broadcasters, etc.) that sports events were as well-funded as possible in order to provide French homes with high-quality sports shows.
It says the partnership would also benefit and create value for the French TV and films production industry, in which CANAL+ is the largest investor in France. The agreement is subject to approval by relevant authorities, particularly the Autorité de la concurrence (French Competition Authority).
Source : http://advanced-television.com…s-distribution-agreement/
