LoveFilm Signs TV Deals with ITV, BBC

LoveFilm is continuing its signing blitz with the announcement of a deal with ITV and the BBC.

With Netflix's UK and Ireland launch looming, LoveFilm is probably feeling the pressure. However, the company isn't resting on its laurels and just waiting for Netflix to roll into town. Over the last few months, LoveFilm has been signing deals with TV and film companies across the industry, bolstering its content library and ensuring it has what it takes to compete against one of the biggest brands in the on-demand TV market. Today, the company announced a new deal with ITV that will bring more programmes and instant streaming, as well as a deal with the BBC.

These new deals mean LoveFilm customers will now have access to shows like Doctor Who, Prime Suspect and Spooks. LoveFilm's announcement is hot on the heels of its last deal, which was announced late in December. The company revealed that it had signed an exclusive deal with Sony Pictures Entertainment. As part of the agreement, Sony will give LoveFilm exclusive streaming rights in the second subscription pay-TV window and the Amazon-owned service's customers will be able to stream Sony Pictures titles, such as the Social Network, via LoveFilm Instant at no extra cost as part of their normal subscription. LoveFilm has signed similar deals with likes of Warner Bros., Disney and Lionsgate in recent months.