Canal+, the new owner of MultiChoice Group, has announced plans to discontinue Showmax, its video streaming platform, as part of a broader cost-cutting strategy.
The decision follows a review of the company’s streaming operations, with Canal+ aiming to reduce expenses and streamline the business amid a highly competitive global streaming landscape. Both MultiChoice and Canal+ have confirmed the planned shutdown, although a specific timeline has not been provided as legal and operational matters are being finalized.
According to the companies, the move reflects MultiChoice’s continued focus on financial discipline and investment optimization. Importantly, the discontinuation of Showmax will not affect employees, as Canal+ is contractually prohibited from retrenching any staff for three years following its acquisition of MultiChoice. “The decision to discontinue Showmax services will not involve any retrenchments. The group will be engaging and supporting employees through various transition options,” MultiChoice stated.
Canal+ CEO, Maxime Saada, had earlier described Showmax as “not a commercial success,” noting that the platform had become a significant financial burden for MultiChoice.
Despite the shutdown, Canal+ reaffirmed its commitment to invest in premium content, technological innovation, and strategic partnerships for MultiChoice subscribers. The company promised that further updates on content offerings and platform upgrades would be shared, emphasizing that subscribers remain a priority.
The French media firm finalized its $3 billion acquisition of MultiChoice Group in September last year, combining operations that now serve over 40 million subscribers across nearly 70 countries in Africa, Europe, and Asia. The integrated group employs approximately 17,000 people.
Looking ahead, Canal+ plans to focus heavily on local content, sports broadcasting, and digital innovation, leveraging MultiChoice’s expertise in understanding African consumer trends and regulatory frameworks to strengthen its presence in emerging markets.
