TF1+ Launches with over forty channels
TF1 Group continue the acceleration of their digital activity with the launch of TF1+, a new OTT platform that replaces MYTF1.
The service is described as a "one-stop shop for news and entertainment” and marks the next chapter in TF1's digital strategy following the 2023 closure of Salto. This joint venture between TF1 Group, France Télévisions, and M6 initially aimed to rival Netflix in the French market, but eventually dissolved in early 2023 after a failed TF1-M6 merger.
Reflecting a trend mirrored by platform improvements in other markets (e.g. ITVX in the UK and 7Plus in Australia) the TF1+ launch indicates the priority that the Free TV business is putting on digital. The platform provides a point of focus for all their activity and includes a broad offer of over 40 FAST channels. With France one of the key growing markets for FAST it is not surprising that TF1 have stepped in to use its leverage in content and advertising markets to take part.
Broadcasters like TF1 hold unique market positions due to their long-standing relationships with local advertisers and extensive content libraries. This combination of ad-market influence and local content control grants them significant economic advantages over third-party platform competitors.
TF1's Content
TF1’s strategic move into FAST is following a trend amongst a number of other broadcaster-owned platforms. In addition to the extensive offer of AVOD titles they make the FAST channels available through a TV guide that blends traditional TV channels with FAST. All of the TF1 group's free channels are available through the service, something that is becoming more common both on broadcaster services and on FAST specific platforms such as Samsung TV Plus in Italy that includes local Warner Bros. Discovery free TV channels in Italy (e.g. DMAX, NOVE and K).
In addition to their traditional Free TV channels, TF1+ also offers a fairly extensive line-up of FAST channels. The offer exhibits a strong preference for single-IP and scripted content within its offering. As of today, 24 of the platform's 43 FAST channels showcase scripted content, with 19 dedicated to individual series. Currently, the lineup leans heavily towards French dramas and soaps, featuring titles like Taken, Zodiaque L’Integrale, and Foudre, alongside French-dubbed versions of Hollyoaks and Nashville. Though the platform has only been live for a month, periodic rotations of these single-IP channels are anticipated, with replacement series introduced as deemed suitable.
The platform also offers a noteworthy selection of unscripted FAST channels, focusing on comedy and reality programming. Additionally, the presence of specialised live event channels has emerged, with the renowned "Les Enfoirés" charity show occupying a prominent position on the EPG. Notably, the inherent flexibility of FAST technology facilitates the inclusion of such event-based channels, which is becoming an increasingly standard practice.
Local Content, Local Owners
Echoing the approach among many broadcaster-owned platforms, TF1+ primarily features FAST channels under its own direct ownership and operation. Beyond retransmissions of their traditional broadcast channels, TF1 owns the majority of the remaining FAST channels offered on the platform. While some third-party channels are present, we would expect that TF1 (like ITV in the UK) will likely maintain its dominant channel ownership position moving forward. Given the platform's recent launch, it remains too early to definitively assess the level of future activity in the third-party channel space.
In comparison to major French FAST platforms like Pluto TV and Samsung TV Plus, TF1+ exhibits a clear focus on locally produced content. Over half of its channels showcase specific French series, encompassing popular reality, comedy, drama, and game shows. Localisation has become a central competitive factor, with platforms increasingly offering dubbed versions of international channels like Baywatch and Yu-Gi-Oh! in key foreign language markets. However, premium local content remains the gold standard for attracting established audiences and securing lucrative advertising revenue. As a cornerstone of the French media landscape, TF1 enjoys privileged access to such content, potentially granting it a significant advantage over non-broadcaster platforms.
Wrap Up
As TF1+ accelerates its digital strategy and grows its presence in the free streaming landscape, the approach to its FAST channel lineup will be interesting to follow along with other similar broadcaster initiatives worldwide. Will single-IP channels continue to dominate, capitalising on the simplicity and inherent promotion they offer? Given the platform's extensive library of premium local content, this approach appears particularly appealing. However, will there be a constant rotation to refresh the library, or will fan-favourite shows secure permanent slots as TF1+ eyes audience growth?
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