It has been reported that On Demand Management, a cable consortium led by Telewest and including NTL and General Cable, is in discussions with major Hollywood film companies with a view to striking a deal which would allow On Demand pay-per-view rights to blockbuster films. The On Demand cable consortium represents more than half the UK’s cable subscribers.
The cable companies intend to provide pay-per-view channels which would virtually be view-on-demand with films starting every thirty minutes or less. If this deal were to come off it would represent the first real challenge to BSkyB’s strong market position in this area and would considerably realign the two companies in preparation for the launch of digital television. Previously pay-per-view events have all been negotiated by BSkyB but the launch of digital TV will open up a host of opportunities for the cable companies.
On Demand are reported to be in advanced discussions with Warner Brothers and possibly other Hollywood companies. Spokespersons for both Telewest and General Cable would neither confirm nor deny this. BSkyB were unavailable for comment.
Telewest: 01483 295 184
BSkyB: 0171 705 3200
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