Discovery has moved to give greater prominence to its own established channels following the completion of its deal with BBC Studios for control of part of the UKTV portfolio.
Discovery now formally takes over control of lifestyle channels Really, Home and Good Food, while BBC Studios takes over entertainment channels Alibi, Dave, Drama, Eden, Gold, W and Yesterday, the UKTV brand, as well as the digital service UKTV Play.
But free-to-air UKTV channels Dave, Home and Yesterday are being moved down the Freeview guide in favour of Quest and DMAX.
Marcus Arthur, President, UK & Ireland at BBC Studios and new CEO of UKTV said, “UKTV has always been an important part of the BBC Group, creating value for licence fee payers and British programme makers. UKTV’s award-winning brands, innovative commissions and premium acquisitions have delivered large and loyal audiences who love great TV. As a wholly-owned part of BBC Studios we will support its future content ambitions, building on its history of success over many years.”
James Gibbons, EVP General Manager UK & ANZ at Discovery added, “Today marks an exciting milestone for Discovery, as we welcome UKTV’s lifestyle channels to our substantial UK portfolio. We are committed to deepening our position with viewers as the leader in real life entertainment by building great brands that power people’s passions and deliver value to our partners.”
Earlier this month, Ofcom said it wouldn’t be running a formal competition assessment of the deal.
BBC Studios will make payments to Discovery totalling £173 million.
