Sony Pictures Television (SPT) Networks has reached an agreement to acquire the Hungarian VIASAT3 and VIASAT6 TV channels from international entertainment group MTG (Modern Times Group).
The two channels will expand the current portfolio of SPT brands in Hungary, which already includes the AXN, AXN White and AXN Black linear channels as well as two digital services: AXN NOW and AXN Player. The completion of the transaction will be subject to Hungarian regulatory approval.
“This deal clearly strengthens SPT Networks’ position in the Central European market and we are focused on further growing our business over the coming year, building on the considerable success our channels and digital services have already had,” said Lyle Stewart, senior vice president, SPT Networks, CEEMA.
John Rossiter, general manager, SPT Networks, Central Europe, added: “This acquisition is a big milestone in our plans to boost SPT Networks’ audience share in Hungary and across the CE region as a whole, allowing us to establish multiple strong brands in the market. The VIASAT channels stand for high quality programming and make a great addition to our existing portfolio.”
Following the acquisition, SPT Networks will have a 6.4 per cent audience share of the 18-49 demographic in Hungary, the company claims, making it the fourth biggest cable, satellite, multichannel operator in the country.
VIASAT3 features movies, TV shows and original productions, including The Devil Wears Prada, the Harry Potter movies, The Blacklist and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and is aimed at women aged 18-39.
VIASAT6 targets a young male audience with popular movies, action and comedy series ranging from Bates Motel and American Horror Story to classics such as the Jaws and Saw movies. Both channels are carried by the main cable and satellite operators in Hungary.
