23 JAN 2024

Thema America teams up with SPI for channel distribution in Latin America

Allowing Thema America to represent and distribute the channels in SPI International's content portfolio throughout the region, this agreement forms part of Canal+'s global expansion plans and comes as a result of the purchase and definitive acquisition of SPI International last year.

23 JAN 2024

Share
  • Facebook
  • X
  • Linkedin
  • Whatsapp

Thema America has reached a strategic agreement with SPI International for representation and distribution of its channels in Latin America.“We are thrilled to grow our thematic channel offering through this alliance with SPI International to represent and distribute its renowned channels throughout Latin America,” said Carlos Fernandez, CEO of Thema America. “Joining the forces of such a strong sister company to Canal+, which has 25 years of experience in the international distribution of film and television content, will allow us to expand our business and strengthen our brand presence, while we expand our television entertainment offering to a market of some 600 million viewers in this region.” 

The agreement will allow Thema America to represent and distribute the channels in SPI International's content portfolio throughout the region, including FunBox UHD, FilmBox Arthouse, Gametoon, FightBox, DocuBox, Fast&FunBox, FashionBox, Erox, Eroxxx, and 360TuneBox. It forms part of Canal+'s global expansion plans and comes as a result of the purchase and definitive acquisition of SPI International last year. 

SPI International  currently operates 57 feeds across 69 countries and manages over 800 operators as business partners and around 90 million subscribers worldwide, making it a key player in television distribution and broadcasting worldwide.  “We are excited to deepen our collaboration with Thema's seasoned team, expanding from the Asia Pacific to Latin America, introducing a curated catalogue of channels tailored for diverse tastes to new audiences. This strategic partnership with another Canal+ company, opens up exciting new horizons to broaden the reach of our content in the region,” commented Murat Muratoglu, Head of Distribution at SPI International. 

The portfolio of channels that Thema America will represent and offer to its business partners in the region includes FilmBox Arthouse, a commercial-free channel dedicated entirely to classic cinema and the best of contemporary arthouse cinema. The channel presents the greatest successes of international cinema, including great titles by well-known directors such as Hitchcock, Kurosawa, and Fellini, among many others. 

Following a worldwide trend, Thema America now brings Gametoon to its Latin American audience. This is a very attractive channel for new generations and video game lovers. Around 70% of Gametoon's content is exclusive. The channel offers news from the world of video games, as well as tips and tricks from renowned gamers and YouTubers. In addition, it features key tournaments, and programs designed for players of all ages. The channel has more than a million fans on social media. 

With approximately 1,000 hours of programming, FightBox is dedicated to fighting events. It offers exclusive content, live events, and weekly programming in some 30 combat disciplines, including MMA, boxing, wrestling, karate, kickboxing, taekwondo, capoeira, judo and jiu-jitsu, among other sports. On the other hand, Fast&FunBox is dedicated to the excitement of car racing, motocross, watercross, and extreme sports such as base jumping and skydiving. In addition, lovers of winter sports such as skateboarding and snowboarding, among others, will be able to enjoy the excitement of the world championships in the comfort of home.  

DocuBox, as its name suggests, is a documentary channel, which focuses on nature, wildlife, culture, historical figures, travel, science, and the environment. In the same vein, Thema America will also offer FunBox UHD, the only ultra HD channel that features varied content on nature, travel, lifestyle, performing arts, music, and movies. And for fashion-loving viewers, Thema America will add FashionBox, a fashion and style channel, which covers the latest trends and tips in beauty, makeup, and fashion, and which presents exclusive broadcasts from the trendiest catwalks and exclusive fashion boutiques. 

Additionally, Thema America's alliance with SPI International includes representation and distribution of adult-themed channels Erox HD and Eroxxx HD for Latin American audiences. The distribution of these channels must comply with local regulations to safeguard young audiences. Finally, for music admirers, it has added 360TuneBox, a channel that organizes its music content by genre and is a home for independent creations by exceptional artists.

We are thrilled to grow our thematic channel offering through this alliance with SPI International to represent and distribute its renowned channels throughout Latin America.” Carlos Fernandez CEO of Thema America