Endemol has announced an initial investment of up to EUR30 million in Endemol Beyond, a new global venture building on existing digital video operations in multiple markets.
Endemol Beyond will create a premium network of connected international and local channels across platforms such as YouTube, Yahoo, AOL, MSN, Dailymotion and others.
The new venture will invest in high-end original productions, engaging leading talent and developing international brand partnerships, with channels across the network themed by genres including comedy, entertainment, fashion, film and more. Selected third party programming will also be acquired.
Endemol Beyond will accelerate the expansion of existing digital video hubs in the USA, UK, Germany, France, Italy and Spain, as well as entering growth markets around the world. Further announcements will follow.
Endemol’s digital video business has already launched over 100 YouTube channels in markets worldwide. This includes Germany, where the company’s local hub, launched in 2012, already operates under the Endemol Beyond banner and has expanded its business with productions for partners including YouTube, Yahoo, McDonalds, Sony Music and Mazda.
Georg Ramme, who has established and led the German operation, becomes managing director, Endemol Beyond International, reporting to Lucas Church, chair of Endemol’s Group commercial board.
Tim Hincks, president of Endemol Group, commented: “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. 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.”
Lucas Church added: “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.”
Georg Ramme said: “The launch of Endemol Beyond will allow us to invest in a new generation of content and talent whilst leveraging Endemol’s global creativity, brands and IP. As part of a world leader in creating, producing and exploiting premium entertainment, this new venture couldn’t be more strongly positioned in the rapidly developing digital video market.”
