United Group has announced plans to invest €100 million in local content production in Serbia, Slovenia, Bosnia & Herzegovina and Croatia.
According to the company, 2017 saw it produce over 30% of the content broadcast on its channels, up from 5% five years earlier. Plans for further content investment include commissioning new screenplays, series and other local productions.
Commenting on the development, Dragan Solak, chairman of the board, said: “In the era of global media players such as Netflix, local audiences still value shows and movies that reflect their lives and experiences. United Group’s plan to invest €100 million in local content is a show of faith in the network of local talent including producers, actors and musicians. I am excited to see what more the region has to offer.”
Dragan Bjelogric, director and screenwriter, added: “United Group’s investment and belief in local films, drama and talent is extremely welcome. As technology changes the way we consume content, giving viewers more control over what and when they watch, I believe that channels like Top channel are revolutionising broadcasting in the region.”
United Group is the largest alternative telco in the South East European region and has two main business segments, namely telecom platforms and media (content and advertising).
It has been majority owned by the investment group KKR since March 2014 and is also backed by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).
