Streaming services are recognizing the importance of sports as a competitive advantage, according to Christina Sulebakk, director of Warner Bros. Discovery. This is evident in the emphasis on sports as one of the top products on the new Max service, despite the high cost associated with such content. In recent years, streaming giants such as Disney and Warner Bros. have invested heavily in producing sports content to attract viewers and differentiate themselves from competitors like Netflix.
Netflix faced a decline in subscribers several years ago, which prompted competitors to step up their game and invest billions in challenging Netflix’s dominance. However, Netflix has since rebounded, increasing its subscriber numbers and revenue to solidify its position in the streaming market. With analysts declaring Netflix the winner of the streaming war, Sulebakk emphasizes the collaborative nature of the industry, where companies aim to produce top-quality entertainment while competing for viewership.
The merger of HBO Max and Discovery+ into the new streaming service Max signifies a strategic shift for Warner Bros. Discovery. Sulebakk stresses the importance of events like the Paris Olympics as compelling content for viewers and highlights the service’s focus on quantity alongside quality. The goal is to become one of the top three streaming services globally in terms of subscribers, viewers, and profitability.
In addition to a wide range of content, Sulebakk emphasizes the importance of user experience in navigating the service and finding personalized content. The availability of different subscription types allows for greater flexibility in catering to diverse viewer preferences. With a focus on live events and engaging content like the Summer Olympics in Paris, Max aims to capture and retain viewers’ interest through a seamless and curated viewing experience.
Overall, streaming services recognize that sports content can be a valuable asset in attracting viewers and gaining a competitive edge over other platforms. By investing heavily in producing high-quality sports content alongside other forms of entertainment, these companies are striving to provide their users with an unforgettable viewing experience that keeps them coming back for more.