BBC Studios has announced impressive results for its linear channel operations, achieving record performance across the EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) region, with notable expansion in Africa.
In 2024, the BBC’s linear channels on MultiChoice’s DStv platform—including BBC Lifestyle, BBC Brit, BBC UKTV, BBC Earth, and BBC News—grew their audience reach by 14%. This year has been particularly successful for CBeebies and BBC UKTV, both of which have set new performance benchmarks. BBC Lifestyle has also achieved its best results since 2017.
Furthermore, a unique two-hour content block featuring BBC Primetime on SABC3 in South Africa increased its reach by 24% compared to the previous year.
In the Netherlands, BBC First—the premium drama channel from BBC Studios—celebrated its most successful year since its launch in 2015, achieving a 2.3% market share among viewers aged four and older, representing a 16% increase from last year.
Poland’s BBC channel portfolio, which includes BBC Earth, BBC Brit, BBC First, BBC Lifestyle, and CBeebies, is on track for its highest market share in 2024 since launching in 2015. It currently stands at 0.82% for viewers aged 4 and older. BBC Earth and BBC First each recorded their best annual share in 2024.
In the Nordics, BBC Nordic has made a significant impact, ranking as the top international channel in Norway during October and November. In November, it achieved its highest share since its inception at 1.2% and has recorded a remarkable 53% increase in share this year compared to 2023.
Arran Tindall, Chief Commercial Officer and EVP of EMEA Key Markets, expressed his pride in the achievements, stating, “2024 has been a record year for our channels business in EMEA. We have seen remarkable numbers across our portfolio in the Netherlands, Poland, Africa, and the Nordics. This success demonstrates the extensive range of high-quality content from BBC Studios and the dedication of our teams in curating engaging schedules that resonate with local audiences.”
