UKTV overtakes Channel 5 and Sky

UKTV: rebranded Watch as W last year
UKTV: rebranded Watch as W last year

UKTV overtook Sky and Channel 5 in terms of share of commercial impacts in 2015, as its revenue rose by 13 per cent year on year.

According to UKTV’s figures, released today, the owner of the Dave, W and Yesterday channels generated revenues of £319 million in the 12 months to 31 December, up 12.7 per cent when compared to 2014.

UKTV’s network of channels accounted for 9.31 per cent of all commercial impacts in 2015, making it larger than Channel 5’s portfolio of channels (9.27 per cent) and Sky’s own-branded channels (9.27 per cent).

Its share of commercial impacts (Soci) grew by 3.4 per cent year on year, from 9.0 per cent in 2014. 

The broadcaster reported earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and amortisation (Ebitda) of £82 million in 2015, up 10.7 per cent year on year. UKTV’s operating profits last year were £79.6 million, which were up 10.2 per cent.

UKTV’s revenues, Ebitda and operating profits all hit record highs in 2015, the second year in a row all three measures broke records.

Darren Childs, the chief executive, said: "Double digit growth is a tough goal. But we’ve achieved that in profit, in revenue and importantly, in investment in our programmes. That’s helping our reputation as a credible and successful investor in creativity go from strength to strength.

"UKTV has had market-beating growth again this year, taking the business to the next level. As investment increases, I’m confident this year will see yet more significant growth for this vibrant business."

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