The Digest:
MultiChoice has announced it will not implement its customary April price increase on DStv subscriptions for the first time in several years, marking a strategic shift under new owner Canal+. Group CEO David Mignot confirmed the decision to TechCentral, stating the immediate focus is on rebuilding the subscriber base rather than adjusting prices upward. The company has lost 2.8 million linear broadcasting subscribers in the two years ended March 2025, with roughly half in South Africa. In the last financial year alone, subscribers declined by 1.2 million (8% year-on-year), leaving 14.5 million active customers. Revenue fell by R4 billion to R52 billion, while trading profit plummeted 49% to R4 billion. Mignot attributed difficulties to weaknesses in commercial execution rather than content, citing strong offerings from SuperSport, M-Net, and Africa Magic. While no increase is planned for April, adjustments later in the year are not ruled out.
Key Points:
- The price freeze offers relief to households facing cost-of-living pressures.
- It reflects MultiChoice's urgent need to halt subscriber losses after a 2.8m decline.
- Consumers gain breathing room, while the company prioritises volume over revenue.
- This signals a strategic pivot under Canal+ ownership to rebuild market share.
- The timing, ahead of the March results, sets the tone for the new strategy.
Sources: Nigerian Tribune, TechCentral
