The French communications regulator, Arcom, has unveiled the results of its DTT frequency allocation process. Eleven candidates have been selected, leading to significant changes in the French television landscape. This includes the addition of two new channels: CMI TV and OFTV.
This allocation, however, leaves no room for two established broadcasters, C8 and NRJ12, owned by Canal+. Arcom has granted nine broadcast licences in total; eight are free-to-air, while M6 Group’s Paris Première remains the sole pay-TV channel. This follows Canal+'s decision to withdraw its pay channel from the terrestrial system. Four channel slots remain unallocated; Arcom rejected proposals to re-advertise these spaces.
Arcom's statement explains the reasoning behind this decision: “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.”
For existing broadcasters, the new licences will become effective upon the expiration of their current licences. For CMI TV and OFTV, their authorisations will commence on 1 March 2025 and 1 September 2025 respectively, adhering to the commitments outlined in their applications and during Arcom’s public hearings.