VimpelCom launches mini-packages and à la carte

Russian service provider VimpelCom has revamped its system for packaging digital TV channels. On top of its basic offering, VimpelCom, which operates through the Beeline brand, is offering 22 mini-packages along with 23 channels offered on an à la carte basis.

The basic package now comprises either 90 or 100 channels, depending on which city the subscriber is located, for RUB230 (€6) or RUB290 a month. The new mini-packages are based on themes including movies, sports, music and kids channels and cost between RUB65-400 depending on the number of channels and the theme. Subscription fees for the à la carte channels range from RUB15-149.

Timur Alyautdinov, director of broadband and digital TV and VimpelCom, said that a survey had shown that 65% of users were attracted by the choice of mini-packages and à la carte channels, and that about a third of subscribers were ready to switch to these offerings.

VimpelCom’s move follows similar initiatives by rivals MTS and Akado, both of which offer a range of thematic packages and à la carte channels.