Viewpoints: acquisitions strategies

Kerstin Gruenwald
Senior Vice President Production and Licensing
Telcast
Germany

What are your acquisition strategies? What products are you looking for?

We are the biggest independent Distributor of television programs in German speaking Europe, and we are now looking for US, UK, French and Australian productions, which we know play well to German audiences. This year, we are particularly keen to acquire male-oriented crime based programs, high-tech features, blue-chip storytelling documentaries, event television and programs, which deal with the effects of globalization or offer a new approach to German History.

Mythbusters

What were your key acquisition deals in 2007?

In 2007, Telcast concentrated on acquiring documentary series and specials. These included the newest season of the internationally successful "Mythbusters" series and "Wrecks to Riches", both from Beyond in Australia. The action driven one-hour doc series "Risktakers", and Anthony Bourdains adventurous cooking show "A Cook's Tour" was acquired from Cable Ready in the US. "Bali" – a 52-episode animation series for preschool kids, with numerous international awards, was licensed from the French production company Planet Nemo. Telcast is about quality acquisition and partnerships, and our working relationships with companies such as Beyond Distribution and Cable Ready has had a positive impact on German speaking viewers.