A+E Networks EMEA Expands UK Streaming With New FAST Channels

On Wednesday, March 20, 2024, A+E Networks EMEA unveiled its latest venture into the free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) sector with the introduction of two new channels in the UK. This strategic move marks a significant expansion for the company within the FAST landscape, further establishing its dominance across various genres such as history, mystery, factual entertainment, and true crime.

The newly launched channels, Deal Masters and History Hunters, are set to captivate audiences with their unique content offerings. Deal Masters caters to viewers interested in learning how to make extra cash through the art of deal-making. The channel features a lineup of shows including Flipping Bangers, Hardcore Pawn, The Liquidator, and Dickinson’s Real Deal, showcasing the expertise of wheeler dealers in turning profits through savvy negotiations.

Conversely, History Hunters brings together a diverse group of Britain’s esteemed historians and well-known celebrities like Tony Robinson, Professor Alice Roberts, Al Murray, and Ross Kemp. This channel aims to explore historical narratives in innovative ways, with its initial roster of shows including River Hunters, Digging for Britain, Shipwreck Treasure Hunter, Al Murray: Why Does Everyone Hate the English?, and Walking Through History.

Julie Mitchelmore, VP of Digital at A+E Networks EMEA, emphasized the significance of partnerships with leading platforms in distributing premium content to both new and existing audiences. She highlighted that the introduction of these FAST channels would complement the network's current offerings: Inside Crime, Mystery TV, and World War TV.

The launch partners for these channels include Rakuten TV, Amazon Freevee, Virgin Media O2, and Samsung TV Plus. Dan Korn, VP of Programming at A+E Networks EMEA, expressed enthusiasm about working within this evolving sector and meeting audience demand across a variety of genres.

A+E Networks EMEA's expansion into the FAST channel market follows the success of its existing channels such as Inside Crime, Mystery TV, and World War TV. This move underscores the company's commitment to delivering compelling and award-winning content across a broad spectrum of genres.

Rakuten TV is part of Rakuten Group, Inc., a global leader in internet services spanning e-commerce, fintech, digital content, and communications. Amazon Freevee offers a vast selection of premium movies and TV shows for free. Virgin Media O2 provides FAST channels through its set-top boxes: V6, TV 360 and Stream. Samsung TV Plus comes pre-installed on Samsung Smart TVs from 2016-2023 and offers instant access to a variety of news and entertainment channels without any fees or subscriptions required.

A+E Networks EMEA continues to share impactful stories across the UK, Nordics, Benelux, Germany, Italy, Spain, Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa through its portfolio of premium brands. With offices in key cities across Europe and Johannesburg, the company remains dedicated to connecting with millions globally through its compelling content.