Sainsbury’s to launch TV service with Rovi

Supermarket chain Sainsbury’s is to become the latest UK retailer to launch a digital video service later this year.

Sainsbury’s has teamed up with technology provider Rovi to launch the service, which will offer access to a library of films and TV series, including new releases on the same day-and-date as their DVD and Blu-ray release.

Sainsbury’s will initially offer the service, which will offer titles on video-on-demand and electronic sell-through, through its Sainsbury’s Entertainment portal but will expand to offer it through connected devices including Smart TVs, Blu-ray Disc players, smartphones and games consoles.

The move is the latest in a series into online entertainment by the supermarket chain, with the acquisition of social network and e-book retailer Anobii and online entertainment company Global Media Vault, and the launch of its music download service.

“Rovi was a natural choice to collaborate with for the launch of Sainsbury’s Entertainment’s digital video service given the company’s market expertise, long-standing industry relationships, and proven technology,” said Luke Jensen, group development director, Sainsbury’s. “On demand streaming video is an exciting addition to our existing online offerings, and supports our customers as they progress from consuming content on physical disc to accessing their favourite entertainment on a range of devices, where and when they choose.”

Rovi’s Entertainment Store was also the platform of choice for consumer electronics retailer Currys and PC World, which launched its own movies-on-demand service, Knowhow Movies, in February.

“Our agreement with Sainsbury’s is an important win for Rovi as we continue our efforts to expand our presence and influence in international markets. Sainsbury’s is an ideal company to collaborate with as they have the marketing acumen, as well as the consumer reach and loyalty needed to be successful and help introduce new consumers to the convenience, quality, and flexibility of online video entertainment,” said David Cook, senior vice-president of sales and marketing and general manager of Rovi Entertainment Store.