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In the Press: Broadcasters push for longer ad breaks as streaming competition heats up

The fierce competition Public service broadcasters (PSB) are facing from subscription streaming services, such as Netflix and Amazon, has resulted in talks with the government on plans to extend TV advert breaks. 

UK broadcasters such as ITV and Channel 4 are in conversation with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) over proposals that could see the current cap of seven minutes of advertising per hour lifted.

Commenting on the news, Nic Pietersma said: 

The lighter touch approach by the regulator could help to level the playing field”. 

But he warned an increase in permitted advertising time could drive down the market price for ad slots, while it could risk alienating consumers who can now opt for paid streaming service or BBC channels.

 

To read the article in full in City A.M., click here. 

First featured on 19/08/2019.

 

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