Endemol announces €30m investment in venture to build on digital video operations
Endemol has today announced an initial investment of up to €30m in Endemol Beyond, a global venture building on existing digital video operations in multiple markets.
The new venture by the independent producer will create a premium network of connected international and local channels across platforms such as YouTube, Yahoo, AOL, MSN and Dailymotion.
“This scaling up of our online digital video ambition is one of the most exciting journeys Endemol has embarked on and we have the international network, the talent and the imagination to make it happen worldwide,” said Tim Hincks, president of Endemol Group.
“Endemol is more than just a great television company; we're a global content creator across all platforms, and we want to further invest in our own creativity and IP to stay innovative.”
Endemol Beyond will look to accelerate the expansion of existing digital video hubs in the USA, UK, Germany, France, Italy and Spain, as well as entering further markets.
Georg Ramme, who has established and led the German operation, has been appointed as managing director for Endemol Beyond International.
Lucas Church, chair of Endemol’s group commercial board, said of the move: “Endemol Beyond will accelerate the growth of our digital video business around the world, building a global network of connected, genre focused, premium channels with significant scale across key platforms. Not only will this add a further dimension to Endemol as a content creator, it will allow us to directly engage a new worldwide fan base for our entertainment brands and it is essential that we have someone with Georg’s proven track record and expertise to coordinate this worldwide initiative.”
The venture will look to engage leading talent and help develop international brand partnerships, with channels across the network themed by genres including comedy, entertainment, fashion, film and more.