The coronavirus pandemic is expected to drive an increase in the number of SVoD subscribers in Western Europe, with 45 million subscribers predicted to sign up in 2020.
The figure is part of a larger prediction for Western Europe, which Digital TV Research suggests will reach 197 million SVoD subscribers by 2025, doubling 2019’s figure of 88 million.
Netflix is predicted to remain the largest pan-regional SVoD platform, with 67.70 million paying subscribers expected by 2025. But, Disney Plus will also become a viewer favourite, with Digital TV Research predicting it will have 57.54 million paying subscribers in Western Europe by 2025.
Simon Murray, principal analyst at Digital TV Research, said: “The Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns have had two major effects on Western European OTT: a surge in SVoD subscriptions and a loss in advertiser confidence, which will result in lower AVoD growth for 2020.
“Netflix reported impressive first quarter results and the newly-launched Disney Plus has enjoyed great success. Crucial for the SVoD platforms will be retaining subscribers after the lockdown is lifted – and to attract new ones.”
