MERLION – official distributor of the satellite television operator TELEKARTA in Russia

MERLION, a major Russian distributor of computer and digital equipment, and the operator of the satellite television TELEKARTA (www.telekarta.tv) have signed a distribution agreement. The agreement came into force this September. It is for an indefinite term and entitles MERLION to sell box packages of the satellite television TELEKARTA within the territory of the Russian Federation.

According to the results of the first half of 2013, the owner of the TELEKARTA brand, Orion Express, took up a stable position among leaders of the pay-per-view television market in Russia. According to the data provided by the analysts, the growth rates of Orion Express and TELEKARTA project are 5 times higher than those of the most successful players. An average growth among the operators having the subscriber base over 1 million people – 16%, while the growth of the subscriber base of Orion Express and TELEKARTA project for one year is 81% and it is already called an “absolute leader in growth rates”. Currently the operator covers 1.5 million viewers.

MERLION forecasts a good demand for TELEKARTA packages both by the partners and end purchasers because it is the satellite television at the most reasonable price in Russia. For example, one of channels packages including those in HD format is provided for viewers only for 2 rubles per day and the satellite broadcasting area covers the whole territory of Russia (and currently TELEKARTA is the only satellite television operator to cover the whole Far East). All this, together with the wide partner base of MERLION (which includes over 8000 companies in all regions of the Russian Federation) will allow successfully selling the TELEKARTA satellite television packages in retail outlets in the farthest corners of Russia.

In its turn, the TELEKARTA satellite television operator also plans to cooperate with MERLION productively and during a long time. This company has become the second official distributor of TELEKARTA in Russia as well as the largest and very prospective partner.

MERLION’ warehouse has already received the first lot of the TELEKARTA satellite television packages. The equipment set for connection consists of an antenna, a receiver, a card for free viewing of channels during 12 months, a cable and a manual. Advantages – over 20 channels without subscription fee and high digital quality of broadcasted video and audio signal due to a modern technological platform.

As the official distributor, MERLION will provide marketing support for the TELEKARTA products within the channel – for its partners.