HBO pulls channels from Bulgarian pay TV operator in fees row

HBO Bulgaria has pulled its HBO and Cinemax services from pay TV operator Bulsatcom’s platform after what it describes as the latter’s continuing failure to pay licence fees owed to it.

HBO Bulgaria said that it hoped to resolve the situation but that discussions between the pair were currently suspended.

Stara Zagora-based Bulsatcom hit back by accusing HBO of demanding unrealistically high prices and minimum subscriber guarantees while the pair were negotiating a new contract.

The pay TV operator said that the terms would mean a significant hike in prices for its subscribers and accused HBO of acting in bad faith.

Bulsatcom has said it will compensate prepaid customers with the HBO package by delivering services of their choice up to 150% of the value of the package.