News

SPI International Brings Dizi Channel and Hundreds of Hours of On-Demand Content with FilmBox+ to NXTDIGITAL India

SPI International, a CANAL+ company with extensive experience in channels management and curation, is thrilled to announce its partnership with NXTDIGITAL India to launch Dizi channel and the FilmBox+ streaming service. Subscribers now have the unique opportunity to enjoy Turkish drama series with Dizi, in Hindi. Accessible as a linear channel through the VAS Bouquet package and available on-demand via the FilmBox+ platform, viewers can dive into the captivating content anytime, anywhere. Viewers can also watch renowned world cinema classics on-demand via FilmBox Arthouse on the FilmBox+ streaming service.

Murat Muratoglu, Head of Distribution at SPI International, stated, "We are pleased to collaborate with NXTDIGITAL India to bring their viewers Dizi channel and FilmBox Arthouse content. This alliance marks a substantial stride in providing exceptional entertainment to Indian viewers. We're set to transform the digital TV experience with a range of content to suit different tastes."

Subscribers will have access to a wide selection of Dizi channel series and FilmBox Arthouse content on-demand via the FilmBox+ platform, which allows viewers to watch their favourite shows and films at their convenience.

Khalid Khan, CEO of India Spark and instrumental in forging the partnership between SPI International and NXTDIGITAL India, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration and said, "We observed the growing preference of Indian viewers for Turkish content over the past few years. Recognizing a significant opportunity here, we collaborated with SPI International to dub their content in Hindi. As a viewer, I believe this marks a ground-breaking moment for all of us — it could potentially be the first Turkish channel entirely dubbed in Hindi. Furthermore, FilmBox Arthouse will be a cinephile's dream. It will offer a collection of timeless classics from legendary directors like Hitchcock, Kurosawa, Fellini, and more. Undoubtedly, it's a treasure trove of on-demand entertainment options for our audience. It was a long time coming, but here it is!"

N.K. Rouse, Chief Operating Officer, NXTDIGITAL, said, “It is a great time to get new internationally acclaimed content for the Indian masses when the world is coming closer. This partnership is a great way for us to give more value to our customers and bring them renowned content at their fingertips. The Dizi channel and the FilmBox+ partnership is a step ahead for NXTDIGITAL to provide quality entertainment to our customers on demand and open content avenues of the world for them.”

About NXTDIGITAL 

NXTDIGITAL is the digital media division of Hinduja Global Solutions Ltd. (HGS), the leading technology-led customer experience, business process management and digital media services player, backed by the global conglomerate Hinduja Group. The digital media business comprises content distribution platforms via cable and satellite, wired broadband, broadband-over-satellite services, enterprise solutions (ONEOTT iNTERTAINMENT Ltd.), technology services (IndusInd Media & Communications Ltd.), and content syndication (IN Entertainment Ltd.).

With a pan-India reach, NXTDIGITAL delivers television services via digital cable and the country’s only Headend-In-The-Sky (HITS) satellite platform under the brand names INDigital and NXTDIGITAL, respectively. The HITS service is available in over 1,500 cities and towns – covering over 4,500 PIN codes – with a significant presence in the fastest-growing demographics of semi-urban, semi-rural, and rural India. NXTDIGITAL is well-established nationally through a trained franchisee network of 10,000 digital services partners who deliver services to millions of customers across the length and breadth of the country.

HGS is listed on BSE and NSE. For the year ended March 31, 2023, HGS had revenues of Rs. 5,006.7 crore (US$ 621.5 million).

About SPI INTERNATIONAL

SPI INTERNATIONAL (a CANAL+ company) is a global media company operating TV channels and multiple digital products across six continents. It is a major player in content distribution and broadcasting worldwide. SPI operates multiple free-to-air and pay-TV channels in CEE, Western Europe, Asia, and Adria regions, including key European markets such as Poland, Czechia, Romania, Serbia and the Netherlands. SPI owns a suite of legacy brands that have become household names, such as FilmBox, Film1, Kino Polska, Stopklatka, and Dizi, along with different thematic channels and streaming services, including FilmBox+. Working with over 800 operators worldwide, SPI uses cutting-edge technology, providing its subscribers with access to SPI's linear and on-demand content. For over 25 years, SPI INTERNATIONAL has been a leading supplier of theatrical films and television programming in the international markets. SPI's solid alliances with major license suppliers provide compelling content with strong recognition and high demand. www.spiintl.com

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Thema America Joins Forces with SPI International for Latin America

Thema America, a Canal+ group company, announced today that it has reached a strategic agreement with SPI International for representation and distribution of its channels in Latin America. The agreement is part of Canal+'s global expansion plans and comes as a result of the purchase and definitive acquisition of SPI International last year. The alliance will allow Thema America to represent and distribute the channels in SPI International's content portfolio throughout the region, including FunBox UHD, FilmBox Arthouse, Gametoon, FightBox, DocuBox, Fast&FunBox, FashionBox, Erox, Eroxxx, and 360TuneBox. 

“We are thrilled to grow our thematic channel offering through this alliance with SPI International to represent and distribute its renowned channels throughout Latin America,” said Carlos Fernandez, CEO of Thema America. “Joining the forces of such a strong sister company to Canal+, which has 25 years of experience in the international distribution of film and television content, will allow us to expand our business and strengthen our brand presence, while we expand our television entertainment offering to a market of some 600 million viewers in this region.” 

SPI International is a global media company with extensive experience in channels management and curation, currently operating 57 feeds across 69 countries. The company also has over 800 operators as business partners and around 90 million subscribers worldwide, making it a key player in television distribution and broadcasting worldwide. 

“We are excited to deepen our collaboration with Thema's seasoned team, expanding from the Asia Pacific to Latin America, introducing a curated catalogue of channels tailored for diverse tastes to new audiences. This strategic partnership with another Canal+ company, opens up exciting new horizons to broaden the reach of our content in the region,” commented Murat Muratoglu, Head of Distribution at SPI International. 

The diverse portfolio of channels that Thema America will represent and offer to its business partners in the region includes FilmBox Arthouse, a commercial-free channel dedicated entirely to classic cinema and the best of contemporary arthouse cinema. The channel presents the greatest successes of international cinema, including great titles by well-known directors such as Hitchcock, Kurosawa, and Fellini, among many others. 

Following a worldwide trend, Thema America now brings Gametoon to its Latin American audience. This is a very attractive channel for new generations and video game lovers. Around 70% of Gametoon's content is exclusive. The channel offers news from the world of video games and the best tips and tricks from renowned gamers and YouTubers. In addition, it features key tournaments, and programs designed for players of all ages. The channel has more than a million fans on social media. 

With approximately 1,000 hours of programming, FightBox is dedicated to fighting events. It offers exclusive content, live events, and weekly programming in some 30 combat disciplines, including MMA, boxing, wrestling, karate, kickboxing, taekwondo, capoeira, judo and jiu-jitsu, among other sports. On the other hand, Fast&FunBox is dedicated to the excitement of car racing, motocross, watercross, and extreme sports such as base jumping and skydiving. In addition, lovers of winter sports such as skateboarding and snowboarding, among others, will be able to enjoy the excitement of the world championships in the comfort of home.  

DocuBox, as its name suggests, is a documentary channel, which focuses on nature, wildlife, culture, historical figures, travel, science, and the environment. In the same vein, Thema America will also offer FunBox UHD, the only ultra HD channel that features varied content on nature, travel, lifestyle, performing arts, music, and movies. And for fashion-loving viewers, Thema America will add FashionBox, a fashion and style channel, which covers the latest trends and tips in beauty, makeup, and fashion, and which presents exclusive broadcasts from the trendiest catwalks and exclusive fashion boutiques. 

Additionally, Thema America's alliance with SPI International includes representation and distribution of adult-themed channels Erox HD and Eroxxx HD for Latin American audiences. The distribution of these channels must comply with local regulations to safeguard young audiences. 

Finally, for music lovers, it has added 360TuneBox, a channel that organizes its music content by genre and is a home for independent creations by exceptional artists.

For more information about the SPI International thematic channel offerings that THEMA will be representing and distributing in Latin America, we invite you to visit 
https://www.thematv.com


About Thema America
THEMA, a Canal+ group company, a leader in the distribution of thematic and multicultural content across all platforms for MVPD (multichannel distributor of video programming), has a diverse portfolio of more than 180 channels worldwide. THEMA America's portfolio includes, among others: Kanal D Drama in association with Kanal D International; MEZZO Live HD; a channel of  the Canal+ group; serving Hispanic communities in the U.S., Mexico's leading channels, Once Mexico and Canal 22 Internacional; and the Dominican channel Telemicro International, among others.

About SPI INTERNATIONAL
SPI INTERNATIONAL (a CANAL+ company) is a global media company operating TV channels, multiple digital products across six continents, and is a major player in content distribution and broadcasting worldwide. SPI operates multiple free-to-air and pay-TV channels in CEE, Western Europe, Asia, and Adria regions including key European markets such as Poland, Czechia, Romania, Serbia and the Netherlands. SPI International owns a suite of legacy brands that have become household names such as FilmBox, Film1, Kino Polska, Stopklatka, Dizi along with different thematic channels and streaming services, including FilmBox+.  Working with over 800 operators worldwide, SPI uses cutting-edge technology providing its subscribers with access to SPI’s linear and on-demand content. For over 25 years, SPI INTERNATIONAL has been a leading supplier of theatrical films and television programming in the international markets. SPI’s solid alliances with major license suppliers provide compelling content, with strong recognition and high demand.
 www.spiintl.com

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FilmBox Hungary to Launch Dedicated Channel Feed and Forges Partnership with RTL Saleshouse

SPI International, a CANAL+ company, built over the years strong expertise in channels management across various platforms, including PayTV, FTA and digital and keeps leveraging its expertise to enhance the group's mainstream channel offerings. In line with SPI International's commitment to providing exceptional entertainment and services to global audiences and business partners, SPI International is happy to officialise the launch of a new version of FilmBox channel in Hungary, fully tailored for the Hungarian market, featuring an enhanced content selection starting January 2024. This endeavour will be further strengthened through a partnership with RTL Saleshouse, facilitating advertising sales and viewership measurement.

SPI International has the experience to edit and create TV channels and SVOD services globally. By introducing a dedicated FilmBox feed for Hungary, the company develops a strategic move, following the successful implementation of a similar approach in the Czech market in 2018. The new agreement with RTL Saleshouse exclusively pertains to the FilmBox channel. In Hungary, the FilmBox channel boasts the highest penetration within the SPI channel portfolio.

"We’re dedicated to enhancing FilmBox’s value proposition across key regions like Hungary, through individual feeds featuring enriched content selections. Our next goal was to find a partner who embodies the spirit of FilmBox and can collaborate effectively within SPI’s corporate structure. RTL Saleshouse fulfils these requirements, and I am excited to commence our collaboration," adds Tamás Fülöp, Regional Director of SPI International.

"The renewed FilmBox channel fits perfectly into our portfolio, and we are very proud to launch and build the advertising sales channel together," said Zsófia Demeter, Ad Sales Director, RTL Saleshouse.

SPI International has also recently unveiled exciting new content acquisitions for FilmBox channels in Central and Eastern Europe. Featuring titles from industry leaders like Paramount Global Content Distribution and Prorom, these additions will provide viewers with an elevated entertainment experience.

 

About SPI INTERNATIONAL

SPI INTERNATIONAL (a CANAL+ company) is a global media company operating TV channels, multiple digital products across six continents, and is a major player in content distribution and broadcasting worldwide. SPI operates multiple free-to-air and pay-TV channels in CEE, Western Europe, Asia, and Adria regions including key European markets such as Poland, Czechia, Romania, Serbia and the Netherlands. SPI International owns a suite of legacy brands that have become household names such as FilmBox, Film1, Kino Polska, Stopklatka, Dizi along with different thematic channels and streaming services, including FilmBox+.  Working with over 700 operators worldwide, SPI uses cutting-edge technology providing its subscribers with access to SPI’s linear and on-demand content. For over 25 years, SPI INTERNATIONAL has been a leading supplier of theatrical films and television programming in the international markets. SPI’s solid alliances with major license suppliers provide compelling content, with strong recognition and high demand. www.spiintl.com

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SPI International Launches an Expansive Array of Channels with Vodafone Ireland

SPI International, a CANAL+ company, boasting significant expertise in curating and managing high-performing channels across FTA and Pay TV platforms, signs a new channel distribution deal with Vodafone Ireland that unveils a comprehensive lineup of thematic channels to Irish audiences. Committed to providing a top quality entertainment experience to global audiences and business partners, SPI International brings a full portfolio of channels to Vodafone customers catering to various tastes and preferences, such as FilmBox Arthouse, DocuBox, Gametoon, Dizi and more.
 
‘’We are thrilled to provide an enhanced entertainment experience by delivering a diverse range of channels to our longstanding partner, Vodafone, spanning various territories including the latest addition, Ireland,’’ said Georgina Twiss, MD Western Europe and Africa at SPI International.
 
The channels included in the deal are: FilmBox Arthouse which brings world cinema classics from iconic directors such as Hitchcock, Kurosawa, Fellini and many others to cinema lovers; Dizi, the popular Turkish drama channel; DocuBox which broadcasts a collection of award-winning documentaries about different cultures and the wonders of our world; FashionBox provides highly entertaining content on fashion trends and all things style, Fast&FunBox offers action-packed programming dedicated to adrenaline sports; FightBox broadcasts some of the most electrifying combat sports live events and multi-discipline mixed martial arts coverage from all over the world; Gametoon which is dedicated to gaming content created by true gaming and esports enthusiasts; FunBox UHD broadcasts visually-groundbreaking documentaries and lifestyle programming and 360 TuneBox presents new music every week with today’s emerging artists.
 
“We are very excited to introduce 9 high quality linear channels to our refreshed lineup and offer a wide variety of great entertainment content from SPI International in various genres such as movies, knowledge, music and sport. This is a great addition to our recently launched VodafoneTV Play which is the all-in-one smart entertainment hub and soundbar,” said Marton Lennert, Head of Entertainment and Devices at Vodafone Ireland. 
 
 
About VODAFONE
VODAFONE IRELAND is Ireland's leading total communications provider with 2.3 million customers and employs over 2,000 people directly and indirectly in Ireland. Vodafone provides a total range of communications solutions including voice, messaging, data and fixed communications to consumers and to small, medium and large businesses. Since 2011, Vodafone has expanded its enterprise division, offering integrated next-generation fixed and mobile solutions in addition to cloud-based platforms, machine to machine services and professional ICT support. Vodafone Group is one of the world's leading international mobile communications groups with mobile operations in 26 countries, partners with mobile networks in 55 more, and fixed broadband operations in 17 markets. For more information, please visit www.vodafone.ie

About SPI INTERNATIONAL
SPI INTERNATIONAL (a CANAL+ company) is a global media company operating TV channels, multiple digital products across six continents, and is a major player in content distribution and broadcasting worldwide. SPI operates multiple free-to-air and pay-TV channels in CEE, Western Europe, Asia, and Adria regions including key European markets such as Poland, Czechia, Romania, Serbia and the Netherlands. SPI International owns a suite of legacy brands that have become household names such as FilmBox, Film1, Kino Polska, Stopklatka, Dizi along with different thematic channels and streaming services, including FilmBox+.  Working with over 700 operators worldwide, SPI uses cutting-edge technology providing its subscribers with access to SPI’s linear and on-demand content. For over 25 years, SPI INTERNATIONAL has been a leading supplier of theatrical films and television programming in the international markets. SPI’s solid alliances with major license suppliers provide compelling content, with strong recognition and high demand. www.spiintl.com

read more »