BBC First increases Dutch distribution

BBC Worldwide is upping the distribution of BBC First in the Netherlands after agreeing a deal with TV, internet and phone provider Caiway.

The fibre operator will carry the ‘best of British drama’ channel from June 15, and it will available to its 200,000 subscribers.

The fully localised Dutch version of BBC First is already available in some 6.7 million homes in the Netherlands, having launched there first via KPN in May 2015.

“We are proud to add Caiway as one of the providers of BBC First in The Netherlands after its proven success on other platforms in the region,” said Simon Cottle, distribution director, Northern Europe, BBC Worldwide.

“It’s great to see Dutch audiences enjoying British drama, and by adding Caiway, we are able to offer unmissable series to even more households.”

BBC First offer a range of popular series including Sherlock, Luther, Silent Witness, Death in Paradise and The Durrells.

The Netherlands was the first European launch market for BBC First, with a Belgian launch following a month later.

Globally, the channel is also available in Australia, Hong Kong, North Africa, Malaysia, the Middle East, Singapore and South Africa.