Verizon Wireless will soon be serving up some of Scripps Networks Interactive’s most tasty TV shows on its mobile-first platform. The two companies announced a multiyear content licensing agreement that would give Verizon Wireless customers access to Scripps’ mobile video brands.
The agreement includes 45 Scripps-owned lifestyle series form networks such as Travel Channel, DIY Network, HGTV and Cooking Channel. “Bizarre Foods,” “House Hunters,” “Cutthroat Kitchen,” “Rehab Addict” and “My Grandmother’s Ravioli” are among the shows included in the agreement.
“As mobile consumption continues to increase, it’s important that we provide audiences with the opportunity to enjoy the series and videos they love across the fullest possible range of devices,” said Henry Ahn, EVP of content distribution for Scripps Networks Interactive. “Great content will always connect with audiences, and this agreement with Verizon provides new and existing viewers with another way to engage with our powerful lifestyle brands.”
Terry Denson, VP of content strategy and acquisition at Verizon added: “Beyond convenience, it is first-choice content on a first-choice platform. And being able to deliver this seamlessly via mobile, to an audience that is passionate about these genres, is that much more powerful.”
Verizon Wireless’ Mobile-First service is aimed at millennials who are increasingly turning away from traditional television. The carrier also recently entered into agreements to license content from CBS Sports, ESPN, 120 Sports, Awesomeness TV and more.
This is right in line with what Verizon said it wanted to do following its $4.4 billion acquisition of AOL. After the deal was completed, a Verizon representative said that ad-sponsored data would be part of a new offering, which would feature on-demand and live TV programming.
Verizon has yet to announce a pricing plan for the OTT service. The terms of the Scripps agreement have not been released.
