Takeover of Multichoice by French-based Canal+ gets the green light

Multichoice operates a number of well-known media brands in various African markets. These include SuperSport, DStv and Showmax. 

The announcement confirming the transaction was made in a joint statement issued through the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. 

South Africa’s Competition Tribunal agreed to the proposed transaction after a positive recommendation from the country’s Competition Commission in May, and hearings in mid-July at which interested parties gave their submissions. Among them were the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, and Media Monitoring Africa, a watchdog for fair and ethical media practices across Africa. 

Canal+ parent company has global reach 

Canal+ is part of the Vivendi global media group with operations spanning content production, advertising, video game development and publishing. Among its assets is advertising and PR company Havas. 

In a statement released in 2024 when it announced its desire to acquire the MultiChoice Group, Canal+ described itself as “a global media company with a presence in more than 50 countries across Europe, Africa and Asia. It has a long and proud history of investing and operating in Africa, having been present on the continent for over 30 years and directly serves eight million African consumers.” 

Comments Maxime Saada, CEO of Canal+: “I’m excited about the potential this transaction unlocks for all stakeholders, notably South African consumers, creative businesses and the nation’s sporting ecosystem. The combined Group will benefit from enhanced scale, greater exposure to high-growth markets and the ability to deliver meaningful synergies.” 

Adds Calvo Mawela, CEO of the MultiChoice Group: “The announcement marks a significant milestone and is a major step forward for both companies. It reflects the strength of our strategic vision and our ongoing commitment to continue uplifting the communities where we operate.”