Encore Español addresses opportunities in the U.S. Hispanic market

(Maribel Ramos-Weiner). The launch of the premium channel Encore Español by Starz Entertainment is the company’s response to suggestions from its affiliates and to opportunities observed when looking at the characteristics of the U.S. Hispanic audience.“Encore sees an opportunity to develop a dialogue with this unique consumer and provide best-in-class entertainment options that bring families together, regardless of their language preference. Research shows that Hispanic households over-index in their Encore movie consumption by more than 40% versus the general population. We are particularly pleased to offer a premium channel that addresses a need in the market for the 80% of Hispanic households in the U.S. where at least one person speaks Spanish as the primary language,” said to PRODU, Stephan Shelanski, EVP of Programming for Starz Entertainment.Shelanski says the channel will be available in the same markets where the flagship Encore channel is currently available. In some systems it will be part of the same movie package that includes Encore, and in others it will be offered as part of the Hispanic tier with expanded basic digital programming. The executive points out there are still no distribution agreements to speak of, but the company is currently negotiating with several affiliates.“For now, Encore Español will be a full mirror of the flagship Encore channel, which offers top movies including a wide range of blockbuster hits including Up, Alice in Wonderland, 2012, The Bounty Hunter, The Princess and the Frog, and other popular films. Encore Español will broadcast its movie programming in Spanish 24/7, uncut and commercial-free,” added Shelanski.