The French communications regulator, Arcom, has unveiled the list of 11 successful candidates in its recent DTT frequency allocation process. This decision marks a significant shift in the French broadcasting landscape, with the notable absence of two established channels: C8 and NRJ12, owned by Canal+. Their slots will be filled by newcomers CMI TV and OFTV.
Arcom's announcement confirms its earlier list, granting a total of nine broadcast licences. Eight of these are free-to-air channels, while M6 Group’s Paris Première remains the sole pay-TV channel following Canal+'s decision to withdraw its pay channel from the terrestrial system. This leaves four frequency slots unallocated. Arcom rejected proposals to re-advertise these remaining slots. “It considered that this decision was not likely to call into question the number of services authorised to broadcast free of charge on DTT as part of the frequency allocation procedure, given the need to guarantee the sustainable financing of services in the context of an eroding advertising market with declining prospects,” Arcom stated.
For existing broadcasters, the new licences will become effective upon expiry of their current licences. New entrants CMI TV and OFTV will commence broadcasting on March 1, 2025, and September 1, 2025, respectively, aligning with their application commitments and Arcom's public hearings.