On 11 July 2023, Canal Plus Group notified the Autorité de la concurrence of its plan to acquire exclusive control of OCS and Orange Studio.

During its investigation, the Autorité held many discussions with Canal Plus Group. It also conducted extensive market consultation, sending out questionnaires to dozens of operators in the sector and holding a number of hearings. In addition, it held discussions with the French Regulatory Authority for Audiovisual and Digital Communication (Autorité de régulation de la communication audiovisuelle et numérique – ARCOM) and the French Directorate General for Media and Cultural Industries.

After examining the transaction, the Autorité has cleared the acquisition subject to conditions. To address the risks of harm to competition identified, Canal Plus Group has entered into commitments, in particular to preserve the diversity of the French cinema offering.

Canal Plus Group's Acquisition of OCS and Orange Studio Subject to Commitments by Autorité de la concurrence

Canal Plus Group's plan to acquire exclusive control of OCS and Orange Studio has been cleared by the Autorité de la concurrence, but subject to commitments. The Autorité conducted an investigation and held discussions with various stakeholders, including operators in the sector, the French Regulatory Authority for Audiovisual and Digital Communication, and the French Directorate General for Media and Cultural Industries. To address competition concerns, Canal Plus Group has agreed to certain conditions, including preserving the diversity of the French cinema offering.

Canal Plus Group's Acquisition of OCS and Orange Studio Subject to Commitments by Autorité de la concurrence

The Autorité de la concurrence has approved Canal Plus Group's acquisition of OCS and Orange Studio, but with certain conditions to protect competition and the diversity of the French cinema offering.