ANIME NETWORK Distribution Soars to 40 MILLION
Continuing to draw in viewers with the strength of its programming and command of all things anime, Anime Network has reached a new distribution milestone. America’s #1 anime channel is now available to 40 million homes across the United States and Canada-a 233% increase and more than three times its reach in less than two years.
‘We are obviously pleased to have made such significant progress,’ said Kevin McFeeley, Anime Network’s Vice President of Affiliate Sales. ‘Yet, we are even more encouraged by the possibilities for even further growth as we seek out new and exciting platforms on which to deliver content to our fans.’
Available to its ravenous viewership on a variety of platforms-24/7 ‘linear’ channel, video-on-demand (VOD), subscription-based video-on-demand (SVOD), pay-per-view (PPV) and transactional for both cable and satellite subscribers-Anime Network has seen a swarm of carriage deals attribute to its success.
In particular, the Network’s recent deals with Wide Open West and Harron Communications (linear) and Service Electric Cablevision and Knology (SVOD) provided the reach that took its total distribution over the 40 million mark.
‘The addition of Anime Network to our On DEMAND library will provide our customers with an even more robust viewing experience,’ said Donald Brandt, Director of Programming & Program Marketing at Service Electric Cablevision. ‘While we were answering the call of numerous anime enthusiasts, we also knew this programming had the power and quality to attract and hook new viewers.’
Launched in late 2002 as a free VOD service on Comcast, Anime Network bears distinction of being the first network in North America to successfully transition from a VOD-only offering to a 24/7 linear service. As of September 13, 2006, its rich lineup of programming will be viewable as a 24/7 linear channel through 17 different service providers, and as a VOD service through 22 service providers. Anime Network has quickly become the largest VOD offering and one of the most popular SVOD services available today, with over 95% penetration to all VOD-enabled households.