W4free expands with Netgem TV deal

UK-based AVOD W4free has continued its expansion via a distribution deal with cord-cutting operator Netgem.tv. 

The streaming service launched in November 2019 with a “curated mix of short form lifestyle, crime, movies and tv series.” It is chaired by industry veteran Chris Sharp and is a product of Video Solutions AG which operates similar AVODs in Germany, Switzerland and Austria.

Since then, W4free has signed content deals with multiple distributors including Signature Entertainment, Kaleidoscope and Platform Entertainment, and has added news and sports programming.

Now it is looking to expand its reach via Netgem, with the streamer now available on its growing network of fibre broadband providers, smart TVs, set top boxes and mobile devices. Netgem is available in an estimated 250,000 households.

W4free chairman Sharp said: “Adding Netgem TV as a distribution partner is an important development in the evolution of w4free.com. It will certainly expand our footprint in Britain. The key to our growth will be to maximize our consumer visibility making it even easier for customers to see our curated programme service. Being available on a platform like Netgem TV that is across linear and mobile platforms is a tremendous step forward.”

Sylvain Thevenot, chief commercial and customer officer at Netgem said: “The W4Free service arrives on Netgem TV at just the right time adding a fantastic collection of movies and series for our customers at no extra cost. We are focused on making our customers’ lives easier by giving them more choice and easy access to quality content on a service that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. By working with content partners like W4Free we are able to significantly increase the value of our TV service and the streaming proposition for growing Altnets in the UK and Ireland.”

In addition to W4free, over the past few months Netgem has added the likes of BritBox, Premier Sports, LaLigaTV and 20 other linear channels to its line-up.