Spike to Become 24-Hour Channel in the Netherlands

AMSTERDAM: Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) is expanding Spike into a 24-hour channel on Ziggo in the Netherlands, where it has been airing as a five-hour block since November 2015.

The 24-hour Dutch service will feature popular programs such as global hit Lip Sync Battle and fight series Bellator MMA. There will also be local programs such as Gamekings and a new reality series focused on Dutch kickboxer Nieky Holzken.

“Since we launched the Spike block in Benelux, we’ve seen ratings grow 128 percent,” said Michael D. Armstrong, the executive VP and general manager for international brand development at VIMN. “With a combination of global hits, including Lip Sync Battle, Ink Master and Bellator MMA, as well as local favorites such as Gamekings, the channel appeals to both women and men in the hugely importantly 20- to 49-year-old adult audience. We’re excited to be expanding the brand even further in the Netherlands and beyond.”

“We’re delighted to announce the expansion of Spike in the Netherlands this December,” said Raffaele Annecchino, the president and managing director of VIMN Southern & Western Europe, Middle East and Africa (SWEMEA). “Since launch, Spike’s programming has been a hit across the Netherlands amongst our growing adult audience, and we look forward to more great results from the channel with this new 24-hour offering. Our goal in the next few years is to expand the brand across all of our regions.”