Viasat Broadcasting has announced an increase in net sales of 17% year-on-year to SEK2,571 million in the fourth quarter to following a free-to-air sales growth of 14% in the Scandinavian market. Viasat, which runs the popular TV3 brand, is benefiting from the digital switchover process that has now completed in Sweden.
The Nordic pay-TV businesses also performed well, generating net sales of SEK3,613 million, an increase of 14% over the 12-month period. As of December 31, 2007, premium subscribers stood at 760,000, including 714,000 who enjoy the DTH satellite service.
The number of subscribers with the Viasat+ personal video recorder increased from 28,000 at the end of 2006 to 73,000 at the end of 2007. Multiroom subscriptions increased from 97,000 to 130,000.
Growth in the company’s Eastern European interests also accelerated during the year to deliver 26% sales growth and contribute 42% of group operating profits. Viasat’s Baltic DTH business reported 164,000 subscribers with 26,426,000 receiving its mini-pay service.
