French media powerhouse Canal+ has successfully taken control of South Africa’s MultiChoice Group, the parent company of DStv, GOtv, SuperSport, M-Net, Africa Magic, and Showmax, in a landmark deal that reshapes Africa’s television and entertainment industry.
The takeover, worth about 35 billion rand (US$2.02 billion), has now become unconditional after all regulatory approvals were secured. This development gives Canal+ effective control of Africa’s biggest pay-TV operator, extending its influence across more than 50 countries on the continent.
From Stakeholder to Majority Controller
Before the deal, Canal+ held around 46% of MultiChoice’s shares. Through a tender offer and additional acquisitions, the French company boosted its stake to gain decisive control. The acquisition followed a restructuring process that separated MultiChoice’s South African broadcasting licenses into a new entity called LicenceCo, which must remain majority-owned by Historically Disadvantaged Persons (HDPs) as required by local law. Canal+ will have limited voting rights in that entity but full influence over the wider MultiChoice operations.
Why It Matters
- Bigger Media Footprint: With this takeover, Canal+ now controls the largest pay-TV business in Africa, combining strong European content pipelines with MultiChoice’s deep African market presence.
- Local Content Investment: As part of regulatory commitments, the companies pledged to increase investment in African stories, sports coverage, and small-scale local broadcasters.
- Impact on Subscribers: While no immediate subscription changes have been announced, analysts expect greater integration between Canal+’s international catalog and MultiChoice’s local offerings on DStv, GOtv, and Showmax.
The Road Ahead
The transaction is expected to be fully completed by October 8, 2025, the agreed “long-stop” date. Both Canal+ and MultiChoice have assured customers and stakeholders that operations will continue seamlessly, but hinted at exciting new opportunities in streaming, digital content, and pan-African broadcasting.
Industry observers say this deal could transform the African media landscape, giving Canal+ a commanding role in shaping what millions of households watch across the continent.
){kind=link}
0 Comments