Scholastic's 9 Story Media Group Unveils Free Kids' Streaming Service on Roku

Scholastic's 9 Story Media Launches AVOD Service for Kids and Families In a move to tap into the growing demand for free streaming services, Scholastic's 9 Story Media Group has launched an ad-supported video-on-demand (AVOD) app in partnership with Future Today. The new service, available on Roku and Amazon Fire TV as of Wednesday, offers a vast library of children's programming, including classic titles from the 1990s. The AVOD app, branded under Scholastic, features around 400 hours of content to start, with plans for additional titles in the future. According to a statement by Angela Santomero, President of 9 Story Media Group, "This new platform is designed to provide families with a safe and engaging way to enjoy their favorite children's shows, while also offering a unique opportunity for brands to reach this valuable audience." The service targets kids aged 12 and under, as well as their parents who grew up watching these classic shows. The initial lineup includes beloved titles such as Clifford the Big Red Dog, Magic School Bus, and Goosebumps series, among others. Scholastic made a significant investment in Toronto-based 9 Story Media Group last year, which has enabled the company to expand its reach into the digital space. This move marks a strategic shift for Scholastic, as it seeks to adapt to changing consumer habits and stay competitive in the streaming market. Industry experts note that the rise of AVOD services is driven by consumers' increasing demand for free or low-cost content options. "The growth of ad-supported streaming has been remarkable," said eMarketer analyst Paul Verna. "This trend is expected to continue, as more consumers seek out affordable entertainment options." As the service expands to other platforms in the near future, it will be interesting to see how Scholastic's AVOD app performs in the market. With its vast library of children's content and user-friendly interface, this new platform has the potential to become a go-to destination for families seeking free streaming options. Background and Context Scholastic, a leading publisher of children's books and educational materials, has been expanding its digital presence in recent years. The company's acquisition of 9 Story Media Group last year marked a significant step towards establishing itself as a major player in the digital entertainment space. The partnership with Future Today, a leading provider of AVOD services, enables Scholastic to leverage the expertise and resources needed to launch a successful streaming platform. Additional Perspectives Industry analysts predict that the rise of AVOD services will continue to disrupt traditional pay-TV models. "As consumers increasingly opt for free or low-cost content options, we can expect to see more ad-supported streaming platforms emerge," said eMarketer analyst Paul Verna. Scholastic's move into the AVOD space is seen as a strategic response to changing consumer habits and market trends. By offering a safe and engaging platform for families to enjoy their favorite children's shows, Scholastic aims to establish itself as a leader in the digital entertainment space. Current Status and Next Developments The Scholastic-branded AVOD app is currently available on Roku and Amazon Fire TV, with plans to expand to other platforms in the near future. As the service continues to grow and evolve, it will be interesting to see how Scholastic adapts to changing market trends and consumer preferences. With its vast library of children's content and user-friendly interface, this new platform has the potential to become a go-to destination for families seeking free streaming options. *Reporting by Hollywoodreporter.*