Complementing its recent drive to increase the number of platforms it runs on, the Vimeo online video service is now expanding through the acquisition of the VHX video distribution platform.
Vimeo VFX 3 May 2016VHX describes its role as empowering creators to sell their work from their own websites, directly to their fans. It notes that everything that used to be sold on DVD can be sold on VHX, letting creators or video sellers sell subscription channels, straight from apps and sites. Content on the platform includes films, TV shows, comedy specials, live concert footage, lectures, Web series, fitness and education.
With the addition of VHX, Vimeo said that it can now offer a complete streaming ecosystem for individual creators, niche programmers and major media partners to offer subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) channels. The company further claimed that it could offer partners the ability to build catalogues and audience by sourcing programming from the Vimeo creator community, and accessing a global ecosystem of over 280 million monthly users.
In a statement commenting on its purchase, Vimeo CEO Kerry Trainor said: “Online video is expanding from a few, mainstream subscription services into a flourishing world of interest-based streaming channels, much like the evolution from broadcast to cable television ... Vimeo is home to the world’s leading video creators and the viewers who love them, and we’re excited to add VHX’s team and technology to our streaming marketplace. As the video universe continues to unbundle, Vimeo offers the ideal home for the next generation of premium video channels serving passionate global audiences.”
VHX claims that to date publishers have grossed over $9.6 million and served over 1.5 million customers to date and its board are extremely enthused by the move to Vimeo. Co-founder and CEO, Jamie Wilkinson, added: “We couldn't ask for a better partner than Vimeo. Adding our platform to Vimeo’s massive community of creators and consumers means we'll be able to move faster, and help creators large and small succeed in the over-the-top streaming market.”
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