Netflix continues international expansion in Japan

Netflix continues international expansion in Japan

   Editor
   | 05 February 2015

As it moves to complete its global roll-out by the end of 2016, the Netflix subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) service is to launch in Japan in Autumn 2015.

Bedroom Device shot1-0043 V Final-onbThe roll-out in Japan, with about 36 million broadband households, will follow the previously announced March expansion of the Netflix service into Australia and New Zealand. At launch, in addition to a strong selection of Japanese TV series and films, the SVOD bouquet will be on offer in high definition or 4K/Ultra HD where available, and will include original series as Marco Polo, Sense8, Marvel's Daredevil, and the Academy Award-nominated documentary Virunga.

"With its rich culture and celebrated creative traditions, Japan is a critical component of our plan to connect people around the world to stories they love," commented Reed Hastings, chief executive officer at Netflix. "As we expand into Asia, we're excited Netflix members increasingly will have access to some of their favourite movies and TV shows no matter where they are."

To facilitate close partnerships with consumer electronics makers and to work with Japanese film and TV creators, Netflix will soon open a regional office in Tokyo. Gregory Peters, chief streaming and partnerships officer at Netflix since 2013, has been promoted to general manager of Netflix Japan. "It is an honour to bring Netflix to Japan, and we'll work hard to please consumers there," Peters commented. "People in Japan soon will have access to great entertainment from all over the world for a low monthly price, while our more than 57 million members will benefit from increased access to great Japanese films and TV shows."