Two of the largest independent TV production groups are in advanced discussions to merge assets, a potential deal that could create a combined business approaching €6 billion in annual revenues. Industry investors, media executives, and M&A professionals should follow this closely as it signals a significant consolidation wave in global content production.
What is known about the merger talks?
France-based Banijay Group and London-headquartered All3Media, owned by RedBird IMI, have been in discussions since late last year. Sources familiar with the matter indicate talks have progressed to an advanced stage, although no agreement has been signed. RedBird IMI and All3Media would contribute funding into the merged structure, aligning capital resources with Banijay’s existing operational leadership under Marco Bassetti.
What financial scale could the combined entity reach?
Based on the most recent annual financial statements from each group, a merged business would generate revenues near €6 billion, equivalent to about $7 billion. This figure positions the potential new company among the largest in the entertainment production sector globally. Banijay already operates over 130 production companies worldwide, with a content library exceeding 200,000 hours, while All3Media owns dozens of production subsidiaries across multiple territories.
Who are the investors behind both companies?
Banijay counts Vivendi among its shareholders and is publicly listed in Amsterdam. All3Media is owned by RedBird IMI, a capital group led by Jeff Zucker and Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan. RedBird IMI acquired All3Media in 2024 for £1.15 billion, or about $1.55 billion, from former owners Warner Bros. Discovery and Liberty Global.
How could this impact the global production market?
Media markets have seen increased consolidation as companies seek scale and resources to meet the demands of global streaming platforms and changing content budgets. The potential merger would combine high-profile formats including Big Brother, MasterChef, The Traitors, and Peaky Blinders under one corporate umbrella. For streaming and broadcast buyers, a larger supplier could mean streamlined negotiations but also increased leverage on pricing and rights terms.
Have similar deals happened recently?
This would be the biggest sector shake-up since Banijay’s acquisition of Endemol Shine Group in 2021. Earlier, RedBird IMI had been in talks with ITV Studios to combine production assets, highlighting the trend toward mega-scale entities in content creation.
FAQ
- Is the merger confirmed?
No, discussions are ongoing and no binding agreement has been signed yet. - What is the potential revenue figure?
The combined entity could reach around €6 billion annually. - Who owns All3Media?
All3Media is owned by RedBird IMI, backed by Jeff Zucker and Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan. - When did RedBird IMI acquire All3Media?
In 2024, for £1.15 billion (about $1.55 billion). - What does Banijay operate today?
Banijay controls over 130 production companies worldwide with a library exceeding 200,000 hours.
Key takeaways
If completed, the Banijay-All3Media deal would create one of the largest content production companies globally. Investors and executives should anticipate shifts in commissioning dynamics, possibly affecting rights negotiations and international co-production markets.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any asset.