HP and Sony will team up to launch a DVD video service. The offering will allow customers to order Sony Pictures Home Entertainment movies and TV shows on discs which can be individually printed for each order.

Customers can order the discs through retailers that will be able to then order the discs on demand rather than purchase them ahead of time with normal inventory orders.

The two companies have not yet determined which shows and movies will be included in the service. However, Sony has promised to include a number of foreign and independent films as well as specialty and regional television programmes, along with older films and TV shows.

“HP’s agreement with Sony signals a significant move in the entertainment industry,” said Willem de Zoete, vice president and general manager of digital content services for HP.

“Together, we’re offering customers a greater selection of content, bridging the gap between the amount of content that is created and that which actually is published and available for consumption.”