Disney Set to Launch Direct to Consumer Services

By
published

The Walt Disney Co. said it plans to begin launching Disney and ESPN branded direct to consumer products.

Disney said it acquired a majority ownership in BAMTech LLC to serve as the technology backbone for the new products.

RELATED: Disney Buys One-Third of BAMTech for $1 Billion

The announcements came as the company announced lower profits in its third quarter.

RELATED: Michael Paull Named CEO of BAMTech

Disney said it will pay $1.58 billion to acquire an additional 42% stake in BAMTech, the technology services and video streaming spin-off of MLB Advanced Media (MLBAM).

RELATED: BAMTech CTO: OTT Providers 'Have to Produce Every Day'

The first direct to consumer products will be an ESPN-Branded multi-sport video streaming service that will launch in early 2018. It will be followed by a Disney braded streaming service in 2019.

Read more at B&C.

Jon Lafayette
Jon Lafayette

Jon has been business editor of Broadcasting+Cable since 2010. He focuses on revenue-generating activities, including advertising and distribution, as well as executive intrigue and merger and acquisition activity. Just about any story is fair game, if a dollar sign can make its way into the article. Before B+C, Jon covered the industry for TVWeek, Cable World, Electronic Media, Advertising Age and The New York Post. A native New Yorker, Jon is hiding in plain sight in the suburbs of Chicago.