CBS and its Affiliates Board are ensuring the network is available to viewers who are increasingly cutting cable and opting for over-the-top skinny bundles of programming like the just-launched services from YouTube and Hulu as well CBS All Access.
“Expanding distribution on these new platforms together with our affiliates has been a part of CBS’ long-term digital strategy,” said Ray Hopkins, president of CBS Television Networks Distribution. “We look forward to continuing to work in partnership with our affiliates, and as these new forms of distribution continue to grow.”
“Access to these new and emerging digital distribution platforms gives all CBS affiliates the opportunity to provide viewers with more accessibility to their favorite local programs as well as must-see, hit CBS programming,” added Chris Cornelius, chairman of the Affiliates Board and VP of Morgan Murphy Media, which owns 2 CBS affiliates.
CBS is the only broadcaster to have its own paid streaming service, CBS All Access. With it, CBS offers affiliate partners a potential new revenue-generating opportunity. Currently, viewers in 90 percent of the country can receive their local CBS affiliate through CBS All Access.
CBS Corp. has struck deals with Hulu, YouTube and Sony Vue, but is not on two other services: DirecTV Now and Sling TV.