Beijing – Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific announced a content partnership with WASU Digital TV Media Group for WASU’s new 24/7 digital subscription channel, Qiu Suo, on March 20. The announcement was made in Beijing, China by WASU and Discovery in conjunction with the China Content Broadcasting Network Conference.
Discovery has invested steadily and significantly in its global content engine and international business for 25 years. In the deal, Discovery will serve as a channel and content consultant to WASU for Qiu Suo, which translates to “quest for knowledge”. Qiu Suo launched on March 16 and features award-winning and popular nonfiction entertainment from across the Discovery’s worldwide networks including Discovery Channel, TLC and Animal Planet. Qiu Suo is owned and operated by WASU and is available exclusively to paid subscribers.
“This content partnership with WASU complements Discovery’s 20-year history of providing high quality, nonfiction programming to the Chinese market,” said JB Perrette, President, Discovery Networks International. “Through WASU’s new channel, Qiu Suo, Chinese viewers now have 24/7 access to the best of Discovery’s factual and lifestyle programming. Discovery’s content deal with WASU underscores our strategy of partnering with top media players and brands in key international markets to strengthen our leadership as the number one pay-TV programmer in the world.”
“Today marks a significant milestone for Discovery’s business in China,” said Arjan Hoekstra, President and Managing Director, Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific. “We have entered into an agreement to be channel and content consultants to WASU, one of the strongest media players in China today. We will supply a carefully curated selection of Discovery programmes to Qiu Suo, WASU’s 24/7 digital paid channel. The new channel will introduce millions of Chinese viewers to some of Discovery’s best content and, building on the success of our existing business in China, paves the way for the next phase of growth for Discovery in one of the world’s fastest growing economies.”
Qiu Suo offers factual and lifestyle entertainment that fulfils the promise of high-definition technology with content targeted for adults aged 25 through 54 years old. Male and female Chinese viewers have shown a strong affinity and passion for Discovery’s core genres such as science, natural history, technology, and travel. The channel brings audiences even closer to breathtaking imagery and expansive detail, featuring programming on the wonders of the world ranging from culture, science and natural history to travel and lifestyle themes. At launch, Qiu Suo will be programmed with some of the best Discovery programming including Man Vs Wild featuring survival expert and global phenomenon Bear Grylls, The Big Bang Theory, Tanked and Desert Car Kings.
