Channel & content distributor Lightning International acquired by telco AsiaSat

Asia Satellite Telecommunications has acquired UK- and Hong Kong-based distributor Lightning International, which counts Docsville and GB News among channels it represents.

AsiaSat said the deal would help it expand its reach to global audiences through traditional and new distribution platforms including OTT and FAST.

Lightning International distributes TV channels and programmes globally, with particular focus on the Asia-Pacific region.

Its linear TV channel portfolio includes Action Hollywood Movies, Kartoon Channel!, Liverpool’s LFC TV, Pet Club TV and Pulse TV, as well as Trace Urban, Trace Sports Stars, Trace Latina, Trace Caribbean, and classic pop music channels NOW 70s, 80s and 90s.

Financial details have not been revealed but Roger Tong, CEO at AsiaSat, said the acquisition would “strengthen [our] capabilities in channel distribution and provide customers with end-to-end B2B and B2C media solutions.”

James Ross, who founded Lightning more than a decade ago, added that the deal would enable both firms to “grow stronger together, through the synergies between us.”