Japan’s Largest Cable Provider Pacts With Fullscreen To Launch Local Digital Network

Fullscreen has inked a pact with Japan’s largest cable TV provider, the Sumitomo Corporation, to help launch its first-ever digital venture, AlphaBoat. As part of the deal, Sumitomo — which owns cable service J:COM — will tap Fullscreen’s wealth of expertise as it makes its inaugural move within Japan’s multi-billion dollar digital media business.

AlphaBoat will serve as a multi-tiered digital network and influencer marketing firm, discovering and representing local talent on platforms like YouTube and Instagram, and connecting them with top brands. The company will also offer talent management, content optimization, and content production facilities. Fullscreen will lend Sumitomo its vast knowledge in the space, and will also develop technology to power the new venture. Fullscreen represents a slew of top stateside creators, including the Dobre Brothers

“Sumitomo has grown the premier television and media service in Japan and has a great track record of creating premium content,” Fullscreen founder and CEO George Strompolos said in a statement. “Together, we are poised to build a company that will guide Japanese creators and brands into their digital-first futures.”

Last month, Fullscreen amped up its influencer marketing arsenal with the acquisition of the data-centric platform Reelio, which it subsequently rolled into its existing suite of tools.