Netflix French launch gets closer

Netflix’s plans for launching in France are gaining momentum with representatives from the US video streamer reportedly set to return to Paris soon – this time to discuss contracts.

Pascal Rogard, MD of French authors’ union SACD told local daily Le Figaro today that Netflix reps – who were said to have been in the capital before Christmas – are due back in two weeks.

The US company, which talked about “substantial European expansion” in its most recent financial results, has also been conducting interviews for French exec to be based in London, C21 has learned.

Launching from London could be a way for Netflix to avoid having to comply with stringent French regulations.

With Netflix’s arrival in France edging ever closer to reality, pay TV group Canal+, whose business will be threatened the most, is getting organised. A few days ago the company created a new division called Canal OTT, entrusting Manuel Alduy as director.

Formerly the director of Canal+’s cinema offer, Alduy will be in charge of developing Canal+’s over-the-top TV strategy as well as an online channels. The company already has an SVod service called CanalPlay, although it had not put much emphasis in developing it so far.

Director of Canal+ thematic cinema channels Nathalie Coste Cerdan will take over from Alduy as director of Canal+ cinema.