LoveFilm Signs Deal with Sony Pictures Entertainment

Just a few days after Netflix announced that it had signed the BBC in preparation for its push into the UK market, LoveFilm has revealed that it has just signed a deal with Sony Pictures Entertainment.

Amazon-owned LoveFilm has announced that it has signed a multi-year content deal with Sony Pictures Entertainment. The deal will see Sony give exclusive streaming rights in the second subscription pay-TV window. LoveFilm customers will be able to stream Sony Pictures titles, such as the Social Network, via LoveFilm Instant at no extra cost and as part of their normal subscription. The company has signed similar deals with likes of Warner Bros., Disney and Lionsgate in recent months.

"Our latest major content agreement means we'll be able to exclusively offer our members world-class content from Sony Pictures," said Simon Calver, Chief Executive of Amazon's LOVEFiLM. "The number of recent high-profile deals we have secured means we are able to keep expanding the service, offering our members high-quality films and TV and the ability to watch as much as they want for one low monthly price."

The deal will further cement LoveFilm's position as a worth rival for Netflix, when it does arrive in the UK early next year. Though LoveFilm has been around for years (and was acquired by Amazon at the beginning of this year), Netflix has a brand recognition that will resonate with many consumers. Deals like this should help LoveFilm strengthen its position and hold its own against the new kid on the block.