CBS is taking its Audience Network to the next level by allowing local CBS TV and radio sites to contribute content to its broad array of distribution partners, such as MSN, AOL, Comcast, Joost and Sling Media. “Consumers and advertisers continue to benefit as we add reach to our open, nonexclusive syndication strategy,” said Joe Ferreira, senior vice president and general manager of CBS Audience Network. “At the same time, CBS local sites gain direct access to CBS video content and boost engagement, while the CBS Audience Network benefits overall.” AdWeek reports that the CBS Audience Network has generated “several million dollars” in revenue over a four-month period, according to Jo Ann Ross, president of sales for the CBS Television Network.
While CBS is the first network to broadly and non-exclusively distribute its local affiliates’ content, NBC and Fox are expected to do the same with their Hulu joint venture.