the numbering of TV channels will change!

Friday 04th October 2024 03:13 AM

The numbering of TNT channels could soon undergo major changes. Find out why the channels of your favorite channels are likely to change, and what impacts this will have on the French audiovisual landscape (more important than it seems).

Reorganization of TNT channels

The redistribution of channel numbers on TNT is being prepared, particularly after the release of C8 and NRJ12. These two channels will leave channels 8 and 12 vacant, allowing the arrival of new entrants like Réels TV, Daniel Kretinsky’s channel, and Ouest-France TV. This change could disrupt the habits of French viewers, in particular those using DTT, which still represents 18% of households. For the channels, these modifications represent major economic issues, because a better position in the numbering ensures greater visibility.

LCI would like to change number

Large groups want to consolidate their channels

TF1 and France Télévisions are campaigning for the creation of blocs themes in order to bring together their continuous news channels, such as LCI and Franceinfo. These two channels currently occupy distant numbers on DTT, channels 26 and 27, far from the first, more visible channels. Grouping these channels close to their competitors like CNews and BFMTV would offer an obvious competitive advantage. However, BFMTV, recently bought by Rodolphe Saadé, is, of course, firmly opposed to this grouping.

Economic and marketing implications

The numbering change is not just about visibility. For certain channels, like W9 or Chérie25, whose number is an integral part of their name, this could pose marketing and image problems. Changing these numbers would result in significant costs for these channelswho should review their communication and adjust their branding. According to industry experts, even a small change in a channel’s position can impact its audience by 0.5%, generating significant gains or losses in terms of advertising revenue.

They are the ones who decide!

The central role of Arcom

It is Arcom, the regulatory authority, which will decide on these changes. By applying the principles of the audiovisual law of 1986, Arcom could choose to group thematic channels, such as news or youth channels. This choice must respect criteria of fairness between publishers and ensure pluralist representation. However, it remains to be seen whether the regulator will opt for a complete reorganization or a simple adjustment. Its decision is expected by the end of 2024, with effective implementation of the changes from March 2025.