Discovery Channel to Debut in Flemish Market

LONDON/AMSTERDAM: Discovery Channel is expanding its reach with a launch on October 1 on Telenet’s analogue feed in the Flemish market.

This is the first analogue license to be released in the region since the launch of Vijftv in 2004. The new channel will complement Discovery’s digital distribution, increasing its reach to more than 2.4 million households. The channel will launch with Flemish Dutch promos, commercials and voiceovers, and subtitles will follow in Flemish Dutch in the future. Programs to be featured include Deadliest Catch, Ultimate Survival, Mythbusters, Dirty Jobs and Storm Chasers.

Arthur Bastings, the executive VP and general manager for Discovery Networks EMEA, said: “This launch is a testament to the strength of the Discovery brand. Key to our success has been putting Discovery’s target audience at the heart of every decision we make, and this channel launch represents our commitment to delivering a localized experience."

Jochem De Jong, the general manager and senior VP of Discovery Networks Benelux, added: "We are experiencing significant growth in Benelux and the launch of Discovery Channel in the Flemish market is the next strategic phase of our development. We plan to create a new team that will be dedicated to sourcing great content and working with commercial partners in the region."