The WWE wrestling organisation has revamped the subscription model for its WWE Network in an effort to attract more subscribers to the streaming service, adding that it is set to launch in the UK market in November.
As part of a new simplified price plan, WWE Network will be available for $9.99 (€7.80) per month with no commitment and the ability to cancel at any time. Previously, this plan had involved a minimum usage period of six months.
The WWE on Thursday said WWE Network had added 31,000 paying subscribers during the third quarter, with 28,000 of those signing up outside the US. The organisation is targeting one million subscribers by the end of the year.
In August, WWE Network became available on an over-the-top basis to more than 170 countries worldwide. The price of subscribing for a single month was reduced from $19.99 to $12.99, with the WWE saying that the new pricing plan “better reflects the variety of economies that exist internationally.”
To encourage more subscribers, the WWE yesterday also said that new customers will receive WWE Network free of charge for the entire month of November – including the Survivor Series event on November 23.
Vince McMahon, WWE chairman and chief executive, said: “To capitalise on the substantial opportunity created by WWE Network, it’s time to remove all the barriers to those that want WWE. We are excited to introduce a new simplified price plan at $9.99 per month, and like Netflix with no commitment to cancel anytime.
“This reflects our belief in the broad appeal of WWE Network content. Additionally, we continue to develop the international platform for WWE Network and plan to make the network available in the UK on an OTT basis in November. WWE Network continues to be the single greatest opportunity to transform WWE’s business model and we remain optimistic about our potential to drive long-term growth.”
WWE Network launched in February and is currently available via mobile devices, smart TVs, set top boxes and video game consoles.