Recently, the president of Arcom, Roch-Olivier Maistre, mentioned a potential creation of a grouping of news channels on DTT, comparable to those of BFMTV and CNews. This initiative aims to restructure the numbering of the channels, a major issue for capturing more audience, considering an option that is being analyzed as part of the reallocation of new DTT frequencies planned for 2025.
The establishment of a block of continuous news channels could redefine the media landscape on DTT. According to Roch-Olivier Maistre, this option is being particularly studied as it addresses a recurring concern of audiovisual regulation. The president of Arcom emphasized that this initiative could offer greater consistency in how these channels are organized and perceived by the public.
The stakes of channel numbering
Channel numbering is a crucial topic, as the first numbers are often seen as prime locations to attract maximum audience. In his speeches, Maistre clarified that number 19 has been available since the cessation of France O in 2020, which could open up opportunities to reorganize news channels. The reallocation of 15 DTT frequencies in 2025 will be a key opportunity for Arcom to make a decision on this numbering issue.
It is clearly established that adjusting the numbering will have domino effects on all channels. Every change in the position of a channel could require a reevaluation of the positions of all the others, making this process complex but essential for maximizing viewer engagement.
The prospects of a block of news channels
One of the hypotheses put forward by the president of Arcom is the formation of a group of continuous news channels aimed at harmonizing the offering. This could create a fairer dynamic for all the concerned channels, which are currently struggling to carve out a place in an increasingly competitive media landscape. Thierry Thuillier, the head of information for the TF1 group, has also expressed his view on the need for reorganization, expressing concern about the current position of LCI, which is at 26th place.
Other stakeholders, like Nicolas de Tavernost, have emphasized that it would be crucial not to harm the established habits of loyal viewers. The tension between the need to reorganize to remain competitive and the need to preserve stability for the audience is a delicate balance to achieve.
For more information and details on this initiative, you can consult articles on the subject at the following links: Arcom and the news channel bouquet and the reorganization of DTT news channels.
