Outdoor Channel is gaining better positioning with RCN and will add some 90,000 subscribers in the northeast, midwest and south as a result.
Previously located on RCN's HD tier, Outdoor Channel, which counts some 35 million subs overall, will be available in both standard-definition and the enhanced format on Sept. 29 in New York City, Chicago, Philadelphia, Boston and Washington, D.C.as part of the provider's Premiere level of service.
Financial terms were not disclosed, but estimates by SNL Kagan and Sanford Bernstein peg Outdoor Channe's subscriber fee at four cents per month.
Outdoor Channel SD and HD are accessible on RCN's channels 358 and 696, respectively.
"We find it increasingly important to expand existing affiliate partnerships, such as with RCN, in order to fully reach Outdoor Channel's potential in markets where we already have a presence," said Randy Brown, executive vice president, affiliate sales and marketing, Outdoor Channel, in announcing the rollouts. "RCN's commitment demonstrates the growing popularity of outdoor sports and entertainment beyond ‘traditional' markets. Known for our best-in-class programming, which brings viewers into the heart of the action, Outdoor Channel is sure to be well- received in these major markets."
Noted by RCN senior vice president of administration John Gdovin: "Considered by many to be some of the most demanding cities in the world, residents within New York City, Chicago, Philadelphia, Boston and Washington, D.C. command only the very best in television programming. Outdoor Channel is a marquee player in the outdoor media space and we are excited to expand our partnership to increase the network's availability to our valued subscribers."
