BBC Launches Entertainment Service Called Beeb

Posted on August 28, 1997

The BBC (British Broadasting Company) has gotten into the Web entertainment and information game this week, with this formal announcement of  "beeb @ the bbc".  "beeb" is the BBC's new commercial web entertainment and information service. Built around BBC programmes, magazines and personalities, beeb creates web based equivalents that extend brand values rather than simply replicating them. beeb is above all friendly and accessible, building on BBC core strengths to make beeb as everyday an experience as watching television, listening to radio or reading magazines.

The majority of beebs content will be freely available to a general audience, with only specific areas of premium service charging for access. beeb provides a series of webzines, focusing on sport, film & TV, motoring, and entertainment. There is also an online shop. Travel, comedy, and science fiction is to follow.

The service is targeting both those already online and those considering getting onto the net. beebs strength is its range of content that appeals to those usually ignored or marginalised on the web - particularly women and the over 40s. Using the quality and reassurance of BBC brands alongside cutting edge design and content, beeb aims to be the UK market leader in terms of overall traffic. beeb will be trailed on BBC TV and radio and benefit from all BBC cross promotional opportunities.

beebs first commercial webzine, Top Gear, was launched in March 1997. The score!, a sports webzine providing fans with the latest news and results, went live in June along with Radio Times, a personalized television and radio listings service. Have Your Say, the sites forum area launched in July giving the beeb audience the opportunity to vote and comment on hot entertainment and sport issues. Comedy, travel and science fiction sites will be launched throughout 1997. It is the audience, however, who will play the key role in shaping beeb, and therefore refining the content plans in months to come.

Rupert Miles, Director of beeb, says, "beeb is designed for everyone and thats what makes it so exciting and unique. beebs going to be surprising and innovative, but above all accessible and entertaining".

The beeb website is no longer live.



More from Writers Write


Writing Contests
upcoming contests
Write Jobs
find a job
Writing Memes
funny writing-related memes
Stephen King Quotes
quotes from the master
Grammar Tips
improve your writing
Writing Prompts
spark your creativity