Treehouse growing into the UK

Canadian kids producer Nelvana is launching its download-to-own service Treehouse Direct in the UK – the first time it has offered the facility outside of Canada.

It has signed a deal with UK telco BT to offer its kids shows via the recently launched BT Vision Download Store. Programming includes Franklin the Turtle and Max&Ruby and will be available for £1.49 ($2.90) per half hour episode.

Nelvana president Doug Murphy says the company expects to expand the service into other territories. "We have been approached to operate digital video storefronts on behalf of other broadcasters internationally. We have also been approached by other content companies who would like their content included in our venture."

BT is currently boosting the programming line-up of its digital store, having also inked an agreement with Warner Bros. to offer movies and television downloads from its library. Releases including Happy Feet and The Matrix trilogy will be available later this year.