The prices for all DStv packages are set to rise in two months’ time. There were increases across the board in 2020, as well. And this year, some users will be asked to pay R16 more each month to keep their subscriptions in place
Although the increases are small, they follow an unfavorable trend. The smallest hit will be for Premium packages – the costs of which are rising by just 1.2%. However, Family viewers are being lumped with a 5.7% increase, setting them back an extra R180 for the year. Those with the Access, Compact,or Compact Plus bouquets will be asked to pay another R5 – R10 per month. The ‘access fee’ for installation has also gone up by 5%.
However, MultiChoice has defended the decision to mark-up its DStv prices; COO Simon Camerer has pointed out that these hikes are still below the current rate of inflation.
“On a weighted average basis, we are looking at about a 2.4% increase across the base. We still have to pay most of our content costs in dollars and we have to try and manage the exchange rate as best we can. In light of a torrid year, to have kept it on average well below CPI [inflation] for the coming year is an achievement.” MultiChoice COO Simon Camerer said.
However, these sentiments will be of little comfort to subscribers who will be made to hand over a little extra, 12 times a year.
