Netflix partners with Fetch TV for Oz market
February 16, 2015
By Colin Mann
In advance of its planned launch in Australia and New Zealand, online movie and TV subscription service Netflix has secured a further operator carriage deal with the news that Australian IPTV platform Fetch TV is to make the service available on the Fetch TV Second Generation set-top box.
From the integrated Netflix app, Fetch TV subscribers will be able to sign up for the Netflix service and easily access and enjoy thousands of hours of popular movies and TV shows including Netflix originals Bloodline, Grace & Frankie and Marco Polo, and Disney films such as Frozen and Maleficent.w With the services unbundled, customers will need to hold a separate account with Netflix.
“As we surveyed the Australian market, Netflix was impressed by the Fetch TV service, unique business model, and the committed coalition of Telco partners,” said Bill Holmes, head of business development at Netflix.“By partnering with Fetch TV, we are making it easy for TV fans and movie lovers to watch Netflix on their televisions.”
“Working with our ISP partners, iiNet, Optus and Dodo, Fetch TV has established itself as a disruptive force in the Australian entertainment market,’’ said Fetch TV CEO Scott Lorson. “We have done this by offering a differentiated and compelling entertainment experience, at a very attractive price point.’’
“Today’s announcement represents a significant milestone for Fetch TV and our partners, and a very exciting development for our 170,000-plus customers,’’ Lorson added. “Netflix is the clear world leader in online entertainment, with a powerful brand, compelling content, and an unparalleled reputation for innovation and disruption. Netflix perfectly complements the Fetch TV service. We are now able to offer Australian consumers a world-class integrated entertainment offering at unprecedented value.”
The move – which also includes the New Zealand market to accommodate planned expansion by Fetch TV – is likely to be followed by agreements with other platforms to house its app.