What is Canal+ acquiring in the French cinema market?

Canal+ is acquiring a 34% stake in the French cinema operator UGC, with an option to build a controlling stake by 2028.

How will the UGC acquisition benefit Canal+'s content library?

The UGC acquisition will allow Canal+ to supplement its existing 9,400 titles with UGC's sizable content library, further strengthening Canal+'s position in the entertainment market.

What is Canal+ planning for its South African operations?

Canal+ is finalizing the takeover of South Africa-based MultiChoice, which will see Canal+ owning 94.39% of the shares. Once the deal is complete, MultiChoice will delist from the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), and Canal+ will take on a secondary listing on the JSE to provide better access to its African operations.

Home / Business and Economy / Canal+ Expands European Cinema Presence with UGC Stake Acquisition

Canal+ Expands European Cinema Presence with UGC Stake Acquisition

16 Oct

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Summary

Canal+ buys 34% stake in French cinema operator UGC
UGC's content library to supplement Canal+'s 9,400 titles
Canal+ to take on secondary listing on Johannesburg Stock Exchange

Canal+ Expands European Cinema Presence with UGC Stake Acquisition

As of October 16th, 2025, the European media giant Canal+ has made a significant move to expand its foothold in the French and European cinema industry. The company has acquired a 34% stake in the French cinema operator UGC, with the option to build a controlling stake by 2028.

The agreement with UGC is seen as a "long-term commitment to French and European cinema and theatrical exhibition," according to Canal+ CEO Maxime Saada. This strategic investment will allow Canal+ to supplement its existing content library of 9,400 titles with UGC's sizable collection, further strengthening its position in the entertainment market.

Alongside the UGC deal, Canal+ has also announced plans for a secondary listing on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE). This move comes as the company finalizes its takeover of South Africa-based MultiChoice, a deal that will see Canal+ owning 94.39% of the shares, with an option to acquire the remaining stake.

Once the MultiChoice acquisition is complete, the company will delist from the JSE, and the secondary listing will provide MultiChoice shareholders better access to the African operation under the Canal+ banner.

The financial details of the UGC agreement were not disclosed, but the overall figures released by Canal+ for the first nine months of 2025 show a revenue of €4.86 billion, including €78 million consolidated from the MultiChoice takeover. The company's EBITA guidance for the year has been confirmed at €515 million.

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