Intelsat Signs Hybrid Media Deal Distributing Hearst Networks EMEA Content

Intelsat, operator of one of the world’s largest integrated satellite and terrestrial networks, successfully launched a hybrid television content distribution service to deliver Hearst Networks EMEA  (formerly known as A+E Networks EMEA) channels to hundreds of points across Europe thanks to its seamless satellite-terrestrial connection.

“Growing global media customers like Hearst Networks EMEA want to work with a single operator that can provide seamless connections from satellite to ground-based Internet Protocol distribution networks,” said Rhys Morgan, regional vice president, EMEA, Media and Networks. “Intelsat has visibility across the full distribution network, even when it spans multiple technologies and can enable customers to reach more end users.”

In order to reach a wide group of viewers, content providers typically use multiple distribution mediums such as direct-to-home (DTH), cable and IPTV. Hearst Networks EMEA needed to maximize the reach of its flagship channels, The HISTORY Channel HD and HISTORY2 HD across Pay TV households in Central and Eastern Europe. This included being able to deliver the content in over 18 languages, audio and subtitles, to as large an audience as possible.

Hearst Networks EMEA content is transmitted through Intelsat’s 1West satellite neighborhood. In order to reach additional endpoints across Europe outside the 1West footprint, content is sent through the terrestrial IP network. Combined, this hybrid delivery model enables A+E to reach more than 16.5 million cable, broadcast and DTH homes.

Matt Westrup, Chief Technology Officer, Hearst Networks EMEA commented: “We are delighted to partner with Intelsat to distribute our key pan-regional History and History 2 channels to serve our affiliates and audiences across Europe delivered however they need it.”

Intelsat has recently enhanced its IP distribution portfolio with the addition of IntelsatOne IP.