MultiChoice is undergoing a major restructuring process following the loss of 2.8 million linear subscribers over the two years leading up to March 31, 2025, with approximately half of these losses occurring in South Africa. This decline has prompted urgent measures as the company grapples with significant financial challenges.
In response to these issues, Canal+, which finalized its acquisition of MultiChoice in 2025, has set a target for cost savings of €400 million by 2030. The restructuring efforts include the retirement of Showmax at the end of April 2026, a decision driven by ongoing financial losses that have contributed to a 49% decline in MultiChoice’s trading profit.
As part of its cost-cutting strategy, Canal+ has implemented voluntary severance packages for its staff in South Africa, affecting a workforce of around 17,000. Additionally, the DStv Delicious Festival has ended its partnership with DStv, further illustrating the impact of these measures on cultural and entertainment sponsorships.
David Mignot, a spokesperson for Canal+, acknowledged the challenges, stating, “Financially speaking, business-wise speaking, the thing is not flying.” He emphasized the company’s focus on building subscribers rather than increasing pricing at this time, indicating a cautious approach to revenue generation.
Canal+ is prioritizing its core satellite and hardware infrastructure over lifestyle branding, a shift that reflects the need to stabilize and grow the business amid these challenges. The company aims to achieve targeted synergies of €250 million across the combined business, which could help mitigate some of the financial strain.
Despite these efforts, uncertainties remain regarding the future of the DStv Delicious Festival’s naming rights, as organizers are currently seeking a new sponsor. Furthermore, the broader impact of Canal+’s cost-cutting measures on cultural and entertainment sponsorships remains unclear. Details remain unconfirmed.
