A number of French thematic channels have closed down during the past few days, including ones operated by M6 and TF1. But pubcaster France Télévision is gearing up to launch its own digital 24/7 news channel.
The M6 Group has ceased operations of two of its niche music channels, M6 Music Black featuring R&B and dance music channel M6 Music Club, citing heavy competition and difficulties negotiating carriage by the various platforms (Canalsat, Free, Bouygues, SFR).
Instead, M6 will now concentrate on its main music channel M6 Music as well as on the dedicated M6 Music Player app.
TF1 is closing down its lifestyle channel Stylia, while the joint venture with M6, TF6 is also terminating its broadcasts.
The Canal+ Group has ceased operations of Cuisine+ and Maison+, and will close down Canal Jimmy later this year.
Meanwhile, public broadcaster France Télévision is preparing the launch of its own all-news channel, due later this year. The broadcaster hopes to secure a slot on the nation’s DTT network as well as distribution via all platforms.
The channel aims to reach 18-45 year olds and hopes to build on the popularity of the broadcaster’s news website FranceTVinfo.
