New pay television platform StarSat, previously operating as TopTV, was officially launched at CineCentre, Killarney in Johannesburg on 31 October by On Digital Media (ODM) in partnership with StarTimes.
Backed by some of the most internationally renowned television brands, StarSat promises to offer audiences a revolutionary, cutting-edge technology viewing experience.
As of 1 December 2013, StarSat’s range of new packages and channels – and new pricing structures – will be available to subscribers.
With more than 2.5m Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) subscribers in Africa, the StarTimes Group has an extensive African footprint and has attained a wealth of technological know-how and expertise in emerging television markets.
Pang Xinxing, president of StarTimes, said at the launch: “We believe that diversity in the broadcasting space benefits the viewer the most, which is why we are so excited about the launch of StarSat here today. Now South African viewers will have a wider range of choice of television services to which they can subscribe.’
Eddie Mbalo, ODM’s interim CEO, added that the entry of StarSat into the pay television market “promises a new viewing experience’. According to him, the channel will offer a variety of programming from entertainment and news to education.
With StarTimes owning a legally prescribed 20% stake in the business upon the implementation of the new business plan, South African shareholders will retain a majority stake in ODM.
Currently, ODM is in the process of concluding the implementation of the Business Rescue Plan, as voted on and adopted by its creditors and shareholders on 30 April 2013.
This legally binding process allows the company to continue to operate in the normal cause of business and to be restructured within the protective bubble of business rescue as per Chapter 6 of the Companies Act.
