The rise of FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV) channels has become an essential part of today’s audiovisual entertainment landscape. Among the major players in this space, telcos are particularly well-positioned, given their vast user bases across Europe, Latin America, and other regions.
However, the shift to FAST presents challenges for some, as it requires a deep understanding of both video delivery and digital advertising. This is where a perfect synergy emerges between Telefónica’s strong market position and cloud-based video operations,and The Channel Store’s expertise in video and advertising within the FAST sector.
The two companies have entered into a long-term global partnership to bundle FAST and AVOD (Advertising Video on Demand) services into Telefónica’s TV offering, with the launch planned for this month. Through this collaboration, O2 Telefónica in Germany will enhance its portfolio by introducing dozens of FAST channels at launch, with plans to continuously expand and improve the offering in the coming months.
In this collaboration, The Channel Store will manage content negotiations, integration, and monetization, while O2 Telefónica will focus on defining the content strategy and integrating Pay TV with FAST/AVOD services for its subscribers.
“The Channel Store is an important partner for o2 TV”, explains Markus von Böhlen, Director Devices, Trading and Digital Life at o2 Telefónica: “With the new ‘o2 TV’, we are offering all consumers in Germany an optimal TV and streaming experience for the whole family at an excellent price-performance ratio. The new offer is also of interest to all other customers who want entertainment and Internet access from a single source.”
Fernando García Calvo, CEO at The Channel Store comments: “Telefónica and O2 have combined the strength of an up-to-date OTT video solution with a compelling content proposition. We’re thrilled to be part of this ecosystem and remain committed to bringing our expertise to this rapidly expanding FAST market.”
This partnership between O2 Telefónica, Telefónica Group, and The Channel Store marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration, which will expand to include new projects, content channels, and innovative distribution and monetization models.