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
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
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
Play is expanding its TV package offer with more channels from Grupa Kino Polska, one of Poland's leading media groups and a part of SPI International – a global media company owned by the CANAL+ Group. Starting in January, the operator's offer will include nine new channels, including five channels from the FilmBox package, the Kino TV film channel, as well as the documentary channel DocuBox HD, the FightBox HD sports channel and broadcast in 4K quality FunBox UHD. All mentioned Grupa Kino Polska channels will be available to Play subscribers on a promotional basis within an open window from December 14, 2023 to January 9, 2024.
- We are pleased that, thanks to our cooperation with Kino Polska Group, more channels will be added to Play's TV offer, expanding our TV service with a variety of high-quality programs. The rich library of movies, series, documentaries and sports content that will enrich our offer is perfectly in line with our strategy of providing customers with next-generation television. The best TV experience, top-notch entertainment and freedom of choice are the pillars of Play TV. - said Magdalena Zonko, Head of the Content Acquisition and Management Team in Play.
- We are constantly expanding the distribution of our channels, allowing an even larger audience to choose the content we offer. We are pleased that channels from the Grupa Kino Polska portfolio are joining the offer of another major operator in the country. Introducing them to Play increases their accessibility and will allow both new and existing subscribers to access attractive and quality content. I am convinced that everyone will find something for themselves in our offer. – said Jacek Koskowski, Director of Sales and Distribution in Grupa Kino Polska.
Grupa Kino Polska channels that will join the Play offer are popular and well-liked TV channels. FilmBox is a well-known brand offering five movie channels: FilmBox Premium HD, FilmBox Extra HD, FilmBox Family, FilmBox Action and FilmBox Arthouse. The FilmBox channels offer excellent entertainment for a wide range of viewers. The package includes a carefully selected range of award-winning films with great actors, high-profile Hollywood productions, acclaimed European cinema, top action films, entertainment classics for the whole family, interesting selection of series from all over the world, as well as arthouse cinema and productions outside the mainstream.
Play TV users will also be able to watch movies and series on the Kino TV channel. The programming offer includes a good selection of popular evergreens, fantasy films, moving dramas, funny comedies, cult horrors as well as series and miniseries.
Documentary enthusiasts will be pleased with the offer of the DocuBox HD channel, which presents nature, popular science, historical and cultural programs and series. For sports fans, the broadcaster offers FightBox HD - a unique sports channel on the Polish market, dedicated to more than 30 combat sports disciplines, including the recently fastest-growing MMA. In turn, FunBox UHD is one of the few channels available in Poland that broadcasts in Ultra HD (4K). It allows viewers to discover breathtaking places, meet extraordinary people and attend unique cultural events.
Additional information
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.
Grupa Kino Polska, part of SPI International, a company owned by CANAL+ Group, is one of the leading media groups in Poland, successfully operating also on international markets. The group distributes and produces content for television, VOD platforms, streaming services and cinemas, as well as selling program licenses. It is also a broadcaster of thematic TV channels, distributed on digital terrestrial television, cable networks and satellite platforms. The Group's portfolio includes such TV channels as Stopklatka, Zoom TV, Kino Polska, Kino Polska Muzyka, Kino TV, Dizi, Gametoon and FilmBox brand channels.
