MultiChoice has launched a new loyalty programme called DStv Thanks across the rest of Africa - excluding South Africa - with DStv subscribers who will be getting access to additional TV channels for free, if they remain subscribed for at least 3 months.
MultiChoice that doesn't currently have plans to introduce DStv Thanks in South Africa, is implementing the new loyalty programme as only South African DStv subscribers will see price hikes introduced from 1 April, with no apparent DStv and GOtv subscription increases for the most of Africa this year, besides minimal price increases for Namibia, Botswana and Swaziland.
MultiChoice Africa is feeling the pinch and churn as subscribers in stalling economies from Zimbabwe to Kenya and from Botswana to Nigeria have been vocal about their struggles to afford DStv and GOtv.
At the same time pay-TV rivals from China StarTimes to Zuku TV and Econet Media's newly introduced Kwesé TV are all ferociously competing to sign up and retain subscription television customers in Africa's growing direct-to-home (DTH) satellite TV market.
With Tim Jacobs gone as MultiChoice Africa CEO and replaced by Brand de Villiers in the position since January this year, MultiChoice's African division has now launched DStv Thanks and GOtv Wow to reward subscribers who remain connected to DStv and GOtv for at least 3 months.
According to MultiChoice the first reward is access to additional entertainment TV channels - like for instance Zee Bollymovies, Viasat Life and AfricaXP's new male-focused Trigger channel - offered for free to subscribers in various African countries who remain connected for 3 months or longer. There will also be "monthly airtime bonuses".
"When putting together this rewards programme, we analysed the best global rewards practices, as well as what our customers love about the DStv brands," says MultiChoice in a statement slightly adjusted per African country where DStv Thanks was announced.
"The rewards offered had to provide greater value to our loyal customers beyond the normal, while also providing more motivation to stay loyal to our platform".
"We're confident that the rewards we have lined up for DStv Thanks now and in the future will not only enhance our customers' television viewing experience but also solidify their connection to our platforms."
