Sony Pictures Television Networks’ first Italian free-to-air TV channel will launch on Thursday, May 4, as Pop.
Following SPTN’s acquisition of Neko TV (LCN 45) from Television Broadcasting System the channel will be rebranded as Pop, and become available on the nation’s DTT network.
“Today marks a new era in our European business, as we announce the launch of Pop – SPTN’s leading kids brand and first Free-To-Air channel in the growing Italian DTT market,” said Kate Marsh, EVP of Sony Pictures Television’s Western Europe International Networks division.
“Sony’s Pop television network has been a big hit with kids elsewhere in Europe and now we’re thrilled to launch the channel in Italy, offering kids and families popular programme franchises and first-run shows such as Kuu Kuu Harajuku, Wild Kratts and The Insectibles which will be completely new for Italian Free-To-Air audiences, and exclusive to Pop.”
SPTN has appointed Viacom International Media Networks Pubblicità & Brand Solutions as the advertising sales partner for SPTN’s new Italian FTA channels, and Persidera has been awarded the contract to provide DTT capacity. The new commercial agreement with Viacom will take effect from May 4, and includes responsibility for managing the sale of SPTN’s broadcast advertising inventory, including sponsorship.
