SPI International/Filmbox Channels Group and Ethnic Channels Group (ECG) have agreed on a distribution deal which appoints the latter as an exclusive agent for the SPI’s thematic and international channels in Canada.
ECG, a television broadcasting, distribution and communications company, will solicit new distribution deals for multiple channels from the SPI’s worldwide portfolio, namely Funbox UHD, FightBox HD, DocuBox HD, FashionBox HD, Fast&FunBox HD, FilmBox Art House, 360 Tune Box and Gametoon.
It will also sell two ethnic channel bundles: the Russian-language pack, comprised of FilmBox Art House, DocuBox, FightBox, Fast&FunBox and Gametoon, as well as the Polish-language pack featuring the leading Polish film channel Kino Polska and Kino Polska Muzyka, along with FilmBox Art House, DocuBox, Gametoon, FightBox and Fast&FunBox subtitled or dubbed in Polish.
Commenting on the development, Stacey Sobel, executive VP for SPI International, said: “We are excited to partner with ECG to distribute our channels in Canada and to provide diverse types of programming to both ethnic and general audiences.
“Our line-up for Canada begins with Funbox UHD, a general entertainment channel with premium Ultra HD content that allows viewers to experience more nuance and detail, faster frame rates, exceptional contrast dynamics and extended colors. Our worldwide channels FightBox HD, DocuBox HD, FashionBox HD, Fast&FunBox, 360 TuneBox and Gametoon have a general appeal to most viewers as they offer mainstream level interest. FilmBox Art House should generate interest among film aficionados who wish to have access to independent and arthouse films that are not easily accessible via main outlets in Canada. The two Kino Polska channels cater to a particular ethnic group”.
Slava Levin, CEO for ECG, added: “Canadians are always looking for new and compelling television choices, and ECG is proud to be partnering with SPI to bring new television channels to Canada for the first time ever, including the new Funbox state-of-the-art 24/7 channel delivering the ultimate 4K/Ultra HD experience.
“These top quality channels will appeal to people across Canada looking for movies, documentaries, adventure, sports, children’s shows, fashion, nature, wildlife and much more.”
