Media release Embargoed until 1am 02 September 2014
Video Ezy Launches On-demand Rental Platform
Blends best of bricks and mortar and digital channels with one of the most recognised brands in NZ
Auckland, 02 September 2014 – Video Ezy, New Zealand’s largest franchised DVD rental chain today announced the launch of VideoEzyOnDemand.co.nzestablishing Video Ezy as New Zealand’s only rental group to have its own online Video On Demand rental platform.
Russell Clark, Joint Managing Director of Video Ezy International (NZ) Ltd, says: “The directors are delighted to be in
a position to add further value to our 90 franchised ‘bricks and mortar’ stores throughout New Zealand with the exciting
addition of VideoEzyOnDemand to our brand.”
With one of the most recognised brands in New Zealand, VideoEzyOnDemand will have thousands of movies including the
latest releases from all the major Hollywood studios available to watch. There will be no monthly fees and customers
will have the ability to access a wide range of new release and catalogue movies for rental and viewing at their
convenience, paying only for the content they watch.
Clark adds: “This is an exciting new phase for our business. By introducing Video On Demand we are giving Video Ezy
franchisees the opportunity to embrace future technology with a model that blends the best of bricks and mortar and
digital channels.
“Video Ezy and its franchisees have a distinct advantage over any competitor in the online field. We are ‘the movie
people’, with the expertise and a vast data base of movie lovers built up over more than 20 years.
“We have extremely strong backing from all New Zealand based DVD/movie distributors who have expressed great excitement,
and pledged support, at the prospect of VideoEzyOnDemand entering the New Zealand online market.
“They also see VideoEzyOnDemand as a legal alternative to illegal downloading which affects so many jobs and the New
Zealand economy in general,” says Clark.
Access to VideoEzyOnDemand is through an app available exclusively on Samsung Smart TVs through the Smart Hub. Customers
will also be able to stream content on any connected device including their PC, Mac, tablet, and smartphone – on any
operating system. Future options may include Chromecast (coming soon to NZ), Screen Sharing and other TVs and gaming
consoles.
Jon Barrell, Sales Director - Consumer Electronics, Samsung New Zealand says: “Samsung is excited to be partnering with
Video Ezy to offer even more exclusive services and choice to our Kiwi customers.”
Andrew Cornwell, General Manager, Sony Pictures (NZ) Ltd says: “We are very pleased to see Video Ezy move into the
digital distribution of films, it’s good to see a local company move into this space.”
John Davie, General Manager, Roadshow Entertainment New Zealand says: “Roadshow is absolutely delighted that Video Ezy
have adapted to the changing entertainment landscape by investing in a digital on-demand platform which will add
considerable benefit to their brand presence in New Zealand. Customers who have for years relied upon Video Ezy for
their Home Entertainment by visiting their stores will now be able to compliment this relationship through a Video on
Demand service with the country’s leading Home Entertainment specialists.”
VideoEzyOnDemand will launch on September 2, 2014.
Ends