Les Echos Group – Le Parisien and Canal+ Group have announced the joint acquisition of Mezzo from Lagardère Group and France Télévisions.
The 21-year old broadcaster runs two pay-TV channels, Mezzo and Mezzo Live HD, centred around classical music, jazz and dance.
Pierre Louette, chief executive officer, Les Echos – Le Parisien Group said: “This acquisition confirms our desire to develop a diversified range of thematic media, particularly in the world of culture. Mezzo is the opportunity to consolidate a leading media centre in classical music alongside Radio Classique, owned by the group and the first radio station in France in this segment”.
Les Echos and Canal have taken ownership on a 50/50 basis. Les Echos will be responsible for acquisitions, scheduling and marketing, while Canal will handle distribution.
“Although positioned in a niche segment, Mezzo is a recognised brand both in France, with our subscribers, and internationally as evidenced by its distribution in more than 60 million homes around the world,” said Maxime Saada, Chairman. Canal+.”
Mezzo has a portfolio of 700 titles, mostly co-productions.
