France Télévisions, M6 & TF1 Align for French OTT Platform

French broadcasters France Télévisions, M6 and TF1 have joined forces to launch an OTT platform: Salto.

The platform will offer a range of programming, including informational content (news bulletins, magazines, special events), sports, entertainment, French fiction, U.S. series, documentaries and movies. Salto will also play an active role in showcasing content from the French and European creative industries. In addition to live and catch-up programs, it will offer exclusive content. The service will provide access to exclusive premieres and add-on services, complementing the existing free platforms MYTF1, 6Play and France.tv.

A stand-alone company, owned in equal shares by the three groups, will be set up to operate the platform, once clearance has been obtained.

Delphine Ernotte Cunci, chairwoman and CEO of France Télévisions, said: “I am delighted by the launch of this joint platform, which is a major development for the future of the French broadcasting industry. Salto will be able to respond to the challenge of global platforms by offering a high-quality service to all our audiences and showcasing the best of the French and European creative industries.”

Gilles Pélisson, chairman and CEO of the TF1 group, added: “For the TF1 group, this project is in line with our stated commitment to openness and strategic co-operation with key industry players, both in France and in Europe. In the years ahead, it will give us the weapons we need to meet the challenges we face while meeting viewer expectations ever more effectively.”

Nicolas de Tavernost, chairman and CEO of M6 group, said: “As a group that has been profoundly committed to adapting to changes in digital technologies and viewing habits for many years, M6 is delighted that the top three French television groups are joining forces to reflect and even accelerate changes in the TV industry, so that they can deliver what their audiences want.”