The merger that led to the creation of BBC Studios was quite a seamless process, according to Paul Dempsey, its president global markets.
Speaking in a press briefing at the start of this year’s BBC Showcase in Liverpool, he added that the new organisation, formed in April 2018, was composed of BBC Worldwide and BBC Studios, which had been complementary companies.
He added that the big step change is that BBC Studios can now produce content that is not shown on the BBC, and indeed in the UK, but solely in other countries.
This year’s BBC Showcase is the first one in which the broadcaster presents itself as an integrated activity.
It has more customers than ever (700+) and the highest ever contingent from Asia.
Furthermore, it is an event that is constantly evolving.
Long-term customers will still continue to licence content, but many want a deeper engagement that includes coproducing and commissioning from BBC Studios.
