Netflix gets the golden ticket
In an effort to create its own content universe, Netflix has acquired the Roald Dahl Story Company and catalog, including beloved works such as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Matilda, The BFG and may more. Previously, in 2018, Netflix gained animated rights to 16 Dahl titles but we should expect that this acquisition will lead to a universal approach across content, films and series, along with publishing, games, consumer products and more.
The NPD Take:
- This acquisition will help Netflix move from a tech/media company toward an entertainment company giving it the breadth of IP to enter new categories and experiences, similar to other major studios like Disney, Universal and Warner Bros.
- While the major studios put focus on developing their SVOD platforms, Netflix is now entering into their sweet spot of delighting fans across multiple touchpoints.
Disney+ brings back free trials
Disney+ is offering free trials to about half a million households via a direct marketing campaign. It was just last June that the streamer nixed free trials for U.S. subscribers, but production slowdowns have impacted the pipeline of content coming to the service which in turn may be resulting in slower than expected subscriber gains.
The NPD Take:
- Fresh content is a prime driver of acquisition and engagement. Special offers help too. Disney likely hopes if it can get new subs to try the service there is enough to keep them engaged until new shows start rolling out soon.
- Between increased competition, cost of creating new content and production delays, services will need to continue providing incentives to bring in new subscribers while at the same time keep them engaged so they don’t churn out.
Paramount+ bundles up with Showtime
For a limited time, new subscribers can get Paramount+ and Showtime for up to 38% off depending on which Paramount+ is chosen. Showtime and the ad-supported Paramount+ plan would be $9.99/month while getting the ad-free Paramount+ plan and Showtime would be $12.99/month. Separately the services cost $10.99/month for Showtime and Paramount+ is $4.99/$9.99 per month depending on the plan. The offer is only available in the U.S.
The NPD Take:
- The Paramount +/Showtime bundle makes strategic sense for Viacom as they look to provide value and bring in new customers. Indeed, old-school cable tactics are finding their way into the world of streaming TV.
- Promotional pricing is making big splash lately. We expect this trend to continue as services rally to bring in new subscribers in a maturing market.