BBC Worldwide will launch its BBC STORE in 2015.

TVBEurope reports here:-

"Plans for the BBC Store were announced early this year by the BBC Trust. It will allow users to buy new programmes as well as content from the BBC archives on a download-to-own basis. The BBC Store will be distinct from the BBC iPlayer which will remain a free catch-up TV service, funded by the UK TV licence fee."


BroadbandTVNews, here, includes:-

“We selected SeaChange because it’s focused exclusively on creating solutions for extremely demanding television operations worldwide,” said Michael Fleshman, senior vice president Consumer Digital Technology at BBC Worldwide. “Our strategy for BBC Store will use the cloud to achieve scale, reliability and quality. SeaChange Cloud Adrenalin will be the key to our ability to present the programs we’re offering on any devices viewers choose.”

As one of the links went on to explain..

"“The BBC needs to respond to significant changes in the way audiences now buy programmes. The creation of BBC Store will enable it to do so, and to release a greater selection of classic shows from the BBC archive."

The explanation is that, for BBC Worldwide to increase its contribution to Auntie's coffers, it has to move with the times. This is one way they are planning to do it, whilst maintaining the 'free' iPlayer service.

Selling DVDs is no longer the only way to 'sell' TV programmes. On-line sales (using these systems) will probably be the way forward.