While MWE Networks does not have the stature of Polsat Plus Group or TVN Warner Bros. Discovery, it is undoubtedly an important player in Poland’s TV industry.
Founded in 2008 by the entrepreneur Michal Winnicki, it has grown over the years and currently boasts a portfolio of 13 thematic TV channels including Antena HD, Power TV, Nuta.TV, Ultra TV 4K and Adventure. In addition, it operates three local terrestrial TV multiplexes (MUX-L1, MUX-L3 and MUX-L4), along with an experimental multiplex (MUX-MWE) the future of which is currently being analysed by the company.
MWE Networks is planning more thematic channel launches, with Junior Channel set to make its debut in January 2024 and Pogoda24, which will cover weather, next spring. No date has yet been set for the shopping channel Zakupy24, though it is known that all three will be distributed by cable and MWE’s local multiplexes.
In October 2022 it was reported that MWE Networks’ future plans included entering the Warsaw Stock Exchange early this year, acquiring a number of cable networks and launching its own OTT service. Although none of these appear to have materialised, in June it acquired 100% of shares in Golf Zone, the company which broadcasts Golf Channel Polska, and was able to add the first sports channel to its portfolio.
MWE Networks has for some time been focused on expanding to other markets and already has a presence in the Czech Republic and Lithuania. Its recent failure to secure a second slot on the first national multiplex MUX 1 seems to have speeded up its plans for future expansion, both geographically and in new business areas.
To that effect, it was announced this week that it will be moving its headquarters to Cyprus. At the same time, Michal Winnicki will focus on developing the company in entertainment and technology while handing the running of its TV and media business to other executives.
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