Netflix has signed a multi-year deal with John Malone’s international cable company, Liberty Global, which will lead to Netflix’s content being made available to Liberty Global customers in more than 30 countries in Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean.
The partnership follows the launch of Netflix on Liberty Global’s U.K. platform Virgin Media in 2013. “It is the latest example of Liberty Global’s commitment to its customers to bring them the very best in entertainment, all conveniently available on their TV, tablet or mobile phone,” Liberty Global said in a statement.
The Netflix deal “complements Liberty Global’s investment in content through acquisitions, partnerships and original commissions, alongside the $2.5 billion spent each year on licensed content for its video platforms,” the company said.
The Netherlands will be the first new Liberty Global territory to launch Netflix on the Horizon box as part of this partnership. The roll-out will spread to other countries as technological upgrades across all of Liberty Global’s operations continue through 2017.
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When the Netflix app launches on Liberty Global’s platforms, existing Netflix members will be able to log-in on the main TV screen, eliminating the need to have a separate device and to switch between TV inputs and remote controls. New customers to Netflix can sign up via the app on the TV.
Mike Fries, CEO of Liberty Global, said: “We are committed to bringing the best content to our customers, and are thrilled to expand our partnership with Netflix. This deal will provide even more freedom to our subscribers, allowing them to access a goldmine of amazing TV and films at the click of a button, fully integrated into their usual TV viewing setup.”
Reed Hastings, Netflix CEO, said: “This partnership builds on our strong relationship with Virgin Media in the U.K., allowing millions of our mutual customers around the world to easily access the broadest range of TV shows and movies without having to search for that other remote control. Combining the Netflix app — and all the great content it provides — into the familiar, easy-to-use cable box makes both more appealing.”
