Netflix races ahead of Amazon in UK

Netflix original series Orange is the New Black

Netflix has extended its lead over global streaming rival Amazon Prime Video in the UK, according to new data from communications regulator Ofcom.

Ofcom’s main annual survey of consumer behaviour found that nearly a quarter of the television viewing population, 23%, watch Netflix, compared with just 7% for Amazon’s service.

It means the gap between the US competitors has widened over the last two years. In 2014, Netflix claimed 13% of viewers while Amazon was on just 5%.

Ofcom’s report also revealed that European satcaster Sky’s streaming service, Now TV, is watched by 4%, up from 1% two years ago.

Meanwhile, nearly one-third (31%) of Netflix viewers said they had subscribed to watch original shows, compared with 19% for Amazon users and 9% for Now TV.

Orange is the New Black, Narcos, House of Cards (all Netflix) and The Man in the High Castle (Amazon) were the most watched originals across all streaming services.

Amazon will be hoping to close the gap on Netflix with the launch of motoring show Grand Tour, which is fronted by the former presents of BBC2’s Top Gear.