ZDF is planning a comprehensive structural reform and intends to heavily invest in streaming services in order to remain relevant in the future. These plans were announced at a company meeting on Monday, according to informed sources. ZDF Chief Editor Bettina Schausten intensively addressed the decline in traditional linear television viewership. Third-party platforms and independent creators are increasingly gaining importance and have already achieved viewing volumes comparable to classic broadcast television. To counter this trend, ZDF plans to massively expand its streaming offerings. Simultaneously, the public broadcaster is required to monitor its costs closely. During the meeting, it was noted that attendees would be relieved if any potential fee increases were limited to only the usual adjustments, which would at least help offset the overall rise in costs.

Mixed
ZDF Bets Big on Streaming to Counter Declining Linear TV Viewership and Reform Its Structure
- November 2, 2026
- 1787 Views

