In a considerable content cutback, the country’s pay television service has confirmed the removal of 16 channels. This comes after negotiations between Multichoice and Warner Bros. Discovery were unsuccessful, as DStv’s agreement with the international media group runs out on 31 December.
The service confirmed last month that Paramount Africa’s BET Africa and MTV Base channels, as well as CBS AMC Network International’s CBS Justice and CBS Reality TV channels are also being axed, causing a significant blow to Multichoice and DStv’s channel lineup. DStv offers various packages, ranging from its cheapest option at R29 per month for its EasyView package, to its most expensive package at R929 per month. However, it is unclear how pricing will be adjusted as a result of the significant content cutbacks, or how current pricing will be justified if it remains the same.
SA streamingtrendsreveal that there is a strong preference for local platforms, with DStv’s streaming service leading with a net penetration of 16%, Showmax in second with 11% and Netflix in third place with 10%. Despite few completely local streaming platforms, they cater to a large portion of SA audiences. Furthermore, industryprojectionsestimate the local streaming market to grow at an annual compound growth rate of 8% by 2028. While many South Africans have enjoyed DStv’s offerings for decades, it is to be seen how many will stay loyal after the major channel cuts in the new year.DM
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