The RTL Group-backed Canadian media and technology company BroadbandTV (BBTV) has acquired the India-based kids content producer and publisher YoBoHo for an undisclosed fee.
The deal makes BBTV one of the leaders in kids and family entertainment on YouTube.
Commenting on the acquisition, Shahrzad Rafati, Founder and CEO, BroadbandTV, said: “We’re very pleased to conclude the acquisition of a top player in the kids space at a time when the kids content vertical is experiencing burgeoning growth.
“BBTV is also making a multi-million dollar investment in YoBoHo to further expand its library of original content, broaden its international footprint, and further diversify its revenue streams.
“Given YouTube’s tremendous commitment and investments in the kids and family vertical, we stand well positioned to capitalise on this momentum.
“We’re now a leader in the industry in a number of major content verticals.”
Guillaume de Posch, Co-CEO of RTL Group, added: “With significant investments in multi-channel networks, RTL Group has become the number two player in the YouTube ecosystem in less than 24 months. BroadbandTV currently represents two thirds of RTL Group’s online video views, and its acquisition of YoBoHo is another milestone in our joint efforts to achieve leading positions in all segments of the rapidly growing online video space. It also underlines our commitment to foster the global growth of BroadbandTV.”
Malik Ducard, global head of content for YouTube Kids & Learning, continued: “YouTube Kids’ viewership is growing rapidly thanks to strong entrepreneurial partners like YoBoHo and we’re excited to see this combination with BroadbandTV a company that continues to innovate and invest successfully in this space.”
Hitendra Merchant, founder & CEO, YoBoHo, said: “YoBoHo has launched 27 channels featuring original programming produced in house reaching a global scale. We have successfully built whole ecosystems around kids content, which has led us to become a top player in the space. We have significant plans to develop this further.
“Our partnership with BBTV allows us to accelerate our international footprint, advance our major content production efforts and scale our business by leveraging their cutting edge technology and powerful MCN business.”
RTL Group acquired a majority stake in BroadbandTV in 2013.
Both companies then formed an ongoing strategic partnership to accelerate BroadbandTV’s growth, with RTL Group’s initial investment set at $36 million.
