Yearbook of Bibliology and Press Studies

Summary

The history of "Polsat" Television perfectly reflects the development of capitalism in Poland after 1989, which goes far beyond any schemata. This Television began with not very successful programme. Lack of professionalism, and in the pioneer period its programmes aroused embarrassment and indignation. In the course of time "Polsat" has become a fully valuable television channel, an element of the present Polish television-market. Although lately its position has become challenged by another private nationwide channel TVN Television, it can still boast of 17% viewing figures. "Polsat" has been one of the major Polish private enterprises for the last ten years. Limited employment makes this firm extremely rentable. It should be added that although commercial programmes are a basic feature of any private broadcaster, it is particularly visible in "Polsat". The reception of the programmes is more and more hampered by overloaded publicity. "Polsat" broadcasts almost one hundred percent of the time permitted by law to paid programme items.