Fabric Black Friday Streaming Discounts: Boost Revenue and Retain Users

With recent price hikes on Disney+, Hulu, ESPN, and HBO Max, it’s no surprise that major streaming platforms are gearing up for Black Friday deals. This year, instead of free trials, the focus will be on discounts for paid plans, especially for longer subscriptions, according to research firm Fabric. Annual or semiannual discounts are key for securing upfront revenue and retaining users, avoiding the high risk of cancellations seen with free trials.

As competition heats up, pricing strategies are essential for building a stable subscriber base. And this Black Friday, platforms are expected to emphasize ad-supported plans and bundled offers. Ad-supported tiers offer lower prices in exchange for ads, a model preferred by 70% of U.S. consumers. Discounts of up to 70%-90% are likely to draw in new users.

Promotions with 6-12 month terms are also popular, aiming to keep users engaged and revenue steady. Bundles are becoming more common, like the Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max package or deals from aggregators like Prime Video and The Roku Channel. Telecom companies and retailers are joining in with integrated bundles combining phone, internet, and streaming services to boost user loyalty and value.

Looking back at 2024, Fabric reports that promotional pricing dominated Black Friday deals, with ad-supported plans gaining traction as preferred entry points for users seeking low prices. Disney+, Hulu (ad-supported bundle), and HBO Max offered steep discounts, while Prime Video and The Roku Channel had add-on discounts up to 75% off.

Interestingly, some services launch their Black Friday promotions early to stand out in the crowded market. Pricing strategy plays a crucial role in the growth of streaming services, especially in a market shaped by price hikes and selective consumers. Black Friday 2025 is expected to reinforce the importance of discounts, bundles, and ad-supported tiers in expanding subscriber bases and retaining competitiveness.