Observed Signal · Aug 27, 2026 · Interview · Source: persoenlich.com News · Impact: 2/5 · Sentiment: Negative
3+: Dominik Kaiser Criticizes CH Media
On the 20th anniversary of Swiss channel 3+, founder Dominik Kaiser publicly criticized CH Media — which acquired his channel group in 2019 — saying the broadcaster has shifted focus, cut costs and that the quality of in-house productions has declined. Kaiser told Tele that few of his original inputs were wanted after the sale and argued that no new hit show had emerged in six years, contributing to falling viewership. CH Media responded by pointing to post-acquisition formats such as "Die Höhle der Löwen Schweiz" and "Sing meinen Song – Das Schweizer Tauschkonzert." The article also notes 3+'s launch date (31 August 2006) and a factsheet counting 52 formats, about 200 seasons and 1,519 episodes since 2006.
Founder criticism highlights perceived strategic and quality shifts at a national broadcaster; relevant to advertisers and media owners but not industry-shifting.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- 3+ first broadcast on 2006-08-31.
- Dominik Kaiser sold his TV group to CH Media in 2019 and has since mostly withdrawn from public view.
- In an interview published 2026-08-27, Kaiser criticized CH Media for shifting focus, cutting costs and producing fewer hit shows over six years.
- CH Media pointed to post-acquisition formats such as "Die Höhle der Löwen Schweiz" and "Sing meinen Song – Das Schweizer Tauschkonzert."
- A factsheet cited in the article states that since 2006 there have been 52 formats in around 200 seasons and 1,519 episodes.
Connected Companies & Entities
3 Entities mapped“CH Media, die den Sender 2019 übernommen hatte, verweist in einer Mitteilung vom Donnerstag ihrerseits auf Formate wie «Die Höhle der Löwen ...”
Ontology Mapping & Concepts
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Criticism of SRF 2 Kultur's Programming and Strategy
An insider criticizes SRF 2 Kultur’s recent direction, attributing a halving of the channel’s market share over fifteen years to management errors and a lack of coherent strategy. Marco Meier, former DRS-2 programme director (2008–2010), told Kulturtipp that cuts to shows, the controversial FM/UKW shutdown and a weak digital strategy (rebranding familiar radio formats as 'digital') have harmed the station. Meier cited international examples (France Culture, Die Zeit, WoZ) showing that demanding cultural content can still find audiences. SRG General Director Susanne Wille has pledged to retain the station, but Meier says SRG lacks a viable concept and that an internal culture of fear suppresses public criticism. Published 2026-05-21.
CH Media makes 3+ umbrella brand for eight channels
CH Media is rebranding its eight national Swiss free‑TV channels under the 3+ umbrella, with rollout from 31 August to 17 September 2026. The primary channel 3+ retains its name while the other channels receive profile‑led names (for example 3+ Movies, 3+ Series, 3+ Crime, 3+ Family, 3+ Adrenalin, 3+ Emotion, 3+ Focus). The relaunch pairs a unified visual identity (an evolved 3+ cube and common typography) with distinct colours and animations per channel and an updated look for the Oneplus streaming app and social presence. Malte Probst, appointed Head of TV National on 1 July 2026, led the team rebrand, which also includes ending 3+ distribution via Astra due to low usage. CH Media cites Mediapulse reach of about 929,000 daily viewers in H1 2026, a primetime record in April, and historic production output since 2006.
Swiss TV Screen-up: Goldbach, CH Media, Seven.One, SRG
The Screen-up 2026, a Swiss TV advertising event, showcased program highlights from Goldbach, CH Media, Seven.One Entertainment Group, and SRG. Goldbach's humorous pitch underscored TV's strength. CH Media celebrated 3+'s 20th anniversary, announced a rebranding of its eight channels under one brand umbrella, and introduced new formats, including 'Renovating Dragqueens' and '#StreetSmart'. Seven.One highlighted Swiss productions like 'Hype Kitchen' and 'KochBar', with doubled reach on Joyn among young audiences. SRF Director Roger Elsener discussed strategic plans despite austerity measures. The event was notably leaner regarding stage decor and major advertisers, with the industry facing pressure as RTL and Sky cut 500 jobs.
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