Ukrainian firms launch new channel

Kiev-based studio Kvartal 95 and Ukrainian broadcaster 1+1 Media are preparing a new satellite channel to launch in August.

Kvartal TV will be an entertainment channel aimed at viewers aged 14 to 49 with “a sense of humour and an active lifestyle,” according to the two firms, which have agreed a multi-year partnership to launch the network.

The channel will offer local programming including animation series from Kvartal 95 and shows such as Vecherniy Kvartal, The Laughter League and Crack Them Up, as well as international series and movies.

Vladimir Zelenskiy, CEO and creative producer at Kvartal 95, said the new channel was part of the studio’s strategy to make its programming available across more platforms.

Kvartal 95 already airs its programming on 1+1 channels and its own website, as well as via YouTube.

“We believe in the potential of this project. We are convinced that the approved international experience of pay TV will eventually become habitual for Ukrainian viewers, who can watch an interesting and high-quality content without ads,” he added.

Alexander Tkachenko, general director of 1+1, said: “Using the synergy of one of the best producers of content in the post-Soviet space, as well as technological and marketing capabilities of 1+1 Media, we are confident that Kvartal TV has serious prospects and chances to get an appreciative audience.”