MultiChoice has announced plans to discontinue its streaming platform, Showmax, after eleven years of operation.
The company disclosed the decision in a message sent to subscribers on Thursday, informing them that the service will be shut down following a review by the board.
“Following a comprehensive review, the Showmax Board has taken the decision to discontinue the Showmax service in the near future,” the message read.
MultiChoice said the move is part of efforts to strengthen its overall digital strategy and ensure long-term sustainability in a highly competitive streaming market.
The company, however, assured subscribers that there would be no immediate disruption to the service.
“At the moment there will be no interruption to your current service. You can continue streaming as usual, and no action is required from you at this time,” the company said.
Although a specific shutdown date was not provided, MultiChoice said it would communicate further details and timelines to subscribers ahead of the discontinuation.
Showmax was launched in 2015 in South Africa and later expanded across many African countries.
Last year, French media giant Canal+ secured approval from South African authorities to take over MultiChoice, paving the way for the acquisition of Africa’s largest pay-TV group, which operates DStv and GOtv.
Under the deal, Canal+ offered ZAR125 per share to acquire all outstanding shares of MultiChoice not already owned by the company.
The agreement also includes commitments to support historically disadvantaged persons and small businesses in South Africa’s audiovisual sector while maintaining investment in local entertainment and sports programming.
