WWE and Vivendi extend deal, Walmart signs on as exclusive retailer

Reported by Earnest I Aguilar Zevallos

WWE and Vivendi Entertainment today announced that the two have extended their deal which will keep Vivendi as WWE's North American retail and rental distribution partner. The deal also puts Walmart as the exclusive retailer for WWE Studios films. 

The deal will cover WWE Studios' next five theatrical releases and will run through 2012. The partnership gives Walmart, Sam's Club and Walmart.com the exclusive right to sell DVD and Blu-ray versions of the films for the first 90 days of release. 

"We're delighted to be extending our relationship with the WWE and offering fans the renowned entertainment which the company has come to represent," stated Mitch Budin, Executive VP and General Manager of Vivendi Entertainment. "We look forward to continuing to help WWE and Walmart grow their brand presence in the home media market through such innovative deals." 

Jim Connelly, Senior Vice President of Consumer Products for WWE added, "WWE is thrilled to further its relationships with Vivendi and Walmart with this exclusive deal. With the combination of Walmart's retail strength, Vivendi's distribution rights, and WWE Studios' family-friendly movies, consumers and families across America will have greater access to quality at-home entertainment."