Viu, a leading pan-regional OTT video service by PCCW Media Group, has made inroads in bringing local content to the online video audience in Thailand with a content deal with GMM Channel, one of the largest entertainment companies in Thailand. The deal also signifies Viu’s continual expansion of localized content to suit the viewers in different markets.
This milestone deal adds up to 200 hours of selected premium content from GMM25 under GMM Channel for Viu audience in Thailand, beefing up its already massive volume of Asian premium content available on the platform. It also bears testament to the success of freemium OTT video model spearheaded by Viu, which offers all viewers free access to its content with ad-support, while premium subscribers can enjoy a wealth of features on the OTT platform.
Ms. Janice Lee, Managing Director, PCCW Media Group, said, “We can expect substantial synergy in this collaboration that will benefit us both. Since Viu coined the pioneering free and premium tiers of services tailored for different viewing habits of Asian netizens, the number of monthly active users has grown to over 16 million by the end of 2017. Our extensive audience base can ensure local broadcasters like GMM Channel may further expand their reach, whereas the premium program lineup from GMM25 will enable us to offer more relevant, highly localized content to attract more viewers. We look forward to working closer with more content providers like GMM Channel to deliver more engaging local content to our users.”
Amassing the highest digital TV viewership on social media platforms in Thailand, GMM25 is renowned for its realistic approach and “taboo-themed” dramas, which are particularly popular among the millennials who form the majority of online video audience. GMM25’s programs always feature famous cast members, remarkable cinematography and a powerful screenplay, all essential elements that strike a chord with local viewers.
Ms. Boosaba DaoRueng, Group Chief Executive Officer of GMM Grammy Public
Company Limited, said, “GMM25 offers a variety of content such as huge hit based-ontrue
stories drama and unique variety shows which speaks well to audiences of the new
generation. The ever so growing millennial audiences make our collaboration with Viu an
essential move. We aim to cross function our existing audiences and capitalize on these
millions of active users. To capture the increasing number of OTT users, both GMM25 and
Viu are focused on constantly pioneering and innovating both the content and the platform.
With these major factors, we are confident the collaboration will see both of our business
goals meet.”
Viu will be the only OTT platform to watch, on demand, certain selected premium GMM25
programs for up to the first 30 days after the initial local telecast and online simulcast by
GMM, such as the well-liked Love Song Love Series, as well as The Crime, which stars
veteran actors Oil-Thana and Ja-Natthaweeranuch in a crime investigation series that
follows a group of skilled police officers who take on challenging cases. The immensely
popular variety show Club Friday Show* will also enjoy an exclusive headstart on Viu. All
Viu users in Thailand can enjoy the selected latest GMM25 content right after local
telecast and GMM online simulcast while premium users can enjoy additional features
such as unlimited episode download and HD 1080p video quality.
Source: PCCW Press Release