Comcast Pressures Local Cable Firms to Curb Low-Cost TV Packages
- Seeks to protect subscriber base for regional sports channels
- Said to seek 15% cap on number of customers for cheapest deals
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Comcast Corp. is trying to restrict cable operators’ sales of low-cost TV service to ensure its regional sports networks don’t lose too many subscribers, according to a trade group of about 750 smaller companies that have taken their complaint to regulators.
Comcast has tried to limit the availability of sports-free offerings in contract talks with pay-TV operators, according to the American Cable Association, whose members have about 7 million subscribers. In addition to being the largest U.S. cable provider, Comcast owns regional sports channels in markets such as Boston, Chicago and Philadelphia.