Facebook Inc. has signed partnerships with European publishers to create more content for its video platform Watch.
The social media company now has agreements with Germany's Axel Springer SE, Hubert Burda Media and Gruner + Jahr AG & Co. KG; France's Brut, Le Monde and BFM TV; and Sweden's Expressen.
Facebook is also in talks with Channel 4 (UK) and the British Broadcasting Corp. to continue their programs, which were previously streamed on Watch. Facebook has invested in Channel 4 News' "Uncovered" and the BBC's "Cut Through the Noise" last year.
"Our goal is to allow publishers to experiment with new formats, engage new audiences, and build sustainable revenue streams on our dedicated video platform," Jesper Doub, Facebook director for news partnerships in Europe, Middle East and Africa, said in a Sept. 5 blog post. "Publishers will have full editorial control of these shows and will work closely with our team to understand which stories, topics and formats are resonating with audiences."
Facebook also inked a content deal with ProSiebenSat.1 Media SE a few months ago.
