French private broadcaster TF1 is once again reconsidering the exclusive distribution arrangement for its digital thematic channels with CanalSat.
At the moment the channels, LCI, Eurosport, TV Breizh, Série Club, Ushuaïa TV, TF6 and Histoire, are only available to CanalSat customers, not via any other provider such as Orange, Free and SFR. TF1 has now asked all operators to submit their offers for distribution of the channels on their platform.
Two years ago, TF1 did a similar round among the operators, but at the time decided to stay with CanalSat, as their offer was the most lucrative. In August 2009 the exclusive distribution agreement was reinforced for another two years.
This time, the situation is different as CanalSat has said it is no longer prepared to pay for exclusive distribution rights. TF1 said it is open to all kind of offers, also for the distribution of individual channels; platforms are requested to submit details of the kind of tier the channels will be placed in (free, subscription) as well as details about the fees they are willing to pay to TF1.