The Cable Networks Group provides a strong foundation for franchise building across the Company as well as unique opportunities for exploiting international expansion and digital media opportunities. The Group includes the Disney Channels Worldwide portfolio of kids channels, ABC Family, SOAPnet and Jetix, as well as the Company’s equity stake in Lifetime Entertainment Services and A&E Television Networks. Combined, these assets reach the full spectrum of audiences from preschoolers to adults.
Disney Channels Worldwide has an aggressive distribution strategy focused on reaching as many kids and families as possible around the world. The goal is to use this expanded reach to support the Disney brand, build existing franchises and launch new TV-based franchises that the entire Company can leverage.
As part of that ongoing strategy, Disney Channel Spain launched on free ad-supported Digital Terrestrial TV (DTT) in July 2008, marking the first time Disney Channel has been available on free DTT anywhere in the world. The launch extended Disney Channel’s reach to all TV viewers in that country. Disney Channel also launched on pay-DTT in Italy as well as basic cable in France, significantly extending its audience reach in those markets.
Today, Disney Channels Worldwide is a global powerhouse in kids entertainment. Disney Channel content reaches hundreds of millions of homes around the world. This access makes Disney Channel a daily touchstone for the Disney brand in more than 100 countries.
