7food network

food network logo.svg

7food network was a digital television channel in Australia, owned and operated by the Seven Network. Launched on 26 December 2018, the channel was a venture into the food genre, showcasing a mix of local and international cooking shows, culinary documentaries, and reality food competition series. The channel aimed to cater to the growing interest in culinary arts and food culture among Australian viewers, offering a 24/7 outlet for both cooking enthusiasts and casual viewers alike. However, 7food network ceased operations on 28 December 2019, marking a brief tenure in the Australian digital television landscape.

History

The launch of 7food network was part of the Seven Network's strategy to expand its digital channel offerings, leveraging the popularity of food-related content. The channel's programming slate included a mix of content licensed from the U.S.-based Food Network, along with original Australian productions and content from other international sources. The decision to introduce 7food network was influenced by the success of food programming on Seven's main channel and the desire to provide a dedicated platform for such content.

Despite the initial excitement surrounding its launch, 7food network struggled to capture a significant audience share. Factors contributing to its challenges included the competitive digital television market, the availability of similar content on other platforms, and changing viewer habits, with a growing preference for on-demand content over traditional linear TV channels.

Programming

7food network's programming lineup featured a variety of shows catering to different tastes and interests within the food genre. Popular international shows such as Chopped, Iron Chef America, and Cutthroat Kitchen were part of the schedule, offering Australian viewers access to high-stakes cooking competitions and culinary challenges. The channel also aimed to highlight Australian cuisine and cooking talent through local productions, although these were less prevalent.

Closure

The decision to shut down 7food network was announced in November 2019, with the channel officially ceasing broadcast on 28 December 2019. The Seven Network cited strategic realignment and a focus on its broader digital strategy, including the enhancement of its on-demand platform 7plus, as key reasons for the closure. Following the shutdown, some of 7food network's programming was integrated into the schedules of Seven's other digital channels and made available on 7plus, ensuring that fans of the channel's content still had access to their favorite shows.

Legacy

Although 7food network's lifespan was short, it highlighted the challenges and opportunities within the Australian digital television market, especially in niche genres like food. The channel's brief existence underscored the importance of adaptability and the need for broadcasters to continuously evolve their content delivery methods to meet changing viewer demands. The experience gained from 7food network has likely informed the Seven Network's subsequent digital and content strategies, contributing to the broader evolution of the Australian television landscape.