(1 October 2005 9:00 pm)

MUMBAI: Rainbow Media which owns and manages American networks - AMC, Fuse, The Independent Film Channel (IFC) and WE: Women's Entertainment has announced that it will expand its distribution arm internationally.

The aim is to to take its content globally for the first time in its 25-year history.

Rainbow Media states that it helped revolutionise American cable television with the development of niche oriented linear networks such as AMC, Bravo, WE, IFC and fuse. It then went on to further expand the niche oriented concept by producing a varied array of original VOD programmes for Mag Rack and sportskool.

Most recently, Rainbow expanded to a third tier of niche-oriented content with the launch of Voom HD Networks, whjich it claims is the largest and most diverse suite of high definition (HD) channels in the world.

The expansion into the international marketplace will focus on channel development and programming sales and licensing, all in an effort to broaden the audience of Rainbow's original content, maximise the value of the Rainbow brands, and fill a large and lucrative international content void, especially in the area of HD programming.

Rainbow Media senior VP business development Glenn Oakley will supervise this expansion for the company. He will lead the newly created Rainbow International division.

Rainbow Media president and CEO Joshua Sapan says, "Throughout Rainbow's history, we have prided ourselves in creating popular and highly valuable original content that has been at the forefront of television innovation, from cable to VOD and now HD. Our new distribution arm will leverage our experience in all aspects of high definition, programming and channel operations, providing viewers around the world with great value.

"With Glenn leading us into the international marketplace, Rainbow International will bring extensive network operation experience, vast programming assets and incredible stability to new global ventures. This is particularly exciting news for those in the HD space, where we are already hearing a tremendous excitement about VOOM and our HD content. Most important, Glenn will ensure the continued audience growth of each of Rainbow's valuable brands."

Oakley leads the company in new areas of business. The a 24-year cable industry veteran is responsible for identifying and capitalizing on new business opportunities and market development, in addition to negotiations and deal structuring for Rainbow.