Banijay to acquire Sony’s German production outfit

Banijay is expanding its German operations through the acquisition of Sony Pictures Television’s (SPT) local production label.

The French super-indie has signed an agreement to buy SPT Germany (Sony Pictures Film und Fernseh Produktions GmbH), adding it to its eight German labels, which include Brainpool, Banijay Productions Germany, Good Humor and Endemol Shine Germany.

SPT Germany’s chiefs Astrid Quentell and Mirek Nitsch will remain in post, with the company set to undergo a name change to bring it under the Banijay brand. The deal is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approval.

The 25-year-old Cologne-based outfit is known for its entertainment formats and scripted productions such as Vox title Die Höhle der Löwen (The Lion’s Den), a local adaptation of Sony’s global smash Dragon’s Den, nine series RTL dramedy Der Lehrer (The Teacher), and ZDF crime series Heldt.

Marcus Wolter, Banijay Germany chief said: “With its strong format brands and high production values, SPT Germany certainly fits perfectly into our group.

“We have always believed in maintaining the independence and individuality of our labels in order to shape the future of entertainment together, and with the power of this group behind them, we have every confidence, the company will thrive in its new home.”

Banijay chief exec Marco Bassetti emphasised his company, which has more than 120 international production labels, will continue to target “talent, talent, talent”.

“[That is] our priority, and at the core of our group. In growing our collective, we strive to further strengthen our world-class, multi-genre portfolio of IP,” he added.

“With Astrid and Mirek, we have a proven duo who can develop high-quality shows that thrive locally and have the universality to tap into audiences globally. They are a very welcome and complimentary addition to our expert-led German operation.”