MSO LOOKS FOR EXCLUSIVE CHANNEL
7-Star, an independent multi-system cable
TV operator, is looking to sign an exclusive deal with pay
TV channel for its subscriber base numbering 40,000-45,000
in Mumbai. The cable TV network has installed decoders in
about 500 of those homes and has placed an order for another
5,000 on US company Aegis Integration.
According to Nadir Ali, one of the promoters
of 7-Star, they had nearly signed on with AXN for an exclusive
deal for their network but then the AXN management decided
to promote the channel nationally through Sony Entertainment
Television.
"We are aware that in a competitive market
like Mumbai we have to provide something different to our
subscribers," says Ali. "Hence we have started the process
of installing Aegis decoders in their homes which will allow
us to selectively transmit pay channels. We would like to
have an exclusive deal with a niche or mass-based channel,
which is looking at testing the Indian market over the next
two to three years. The deal will benefit us both."
