Newen Group, the producers of BBC Two’s drama series Versailles, has announced plans to target UK dramas with a €50 million investment fund.
The French TV production and distribution business wants to build its presence in English-speaking content.
Newen Distribution says it is seeking to partner on three to four “outstanding” scripted series, both returning and mini-series.
The investment will be supported by an international sales presence headquartered in Paris, a strong emphasis on global marketing and a new London office focused on UK content partnerships. Julien Leroux has been appointed as its executive vice president of sales and content development.
“We all know the challenges distributors face in funding the best drama in the UK market.” said Malika Abdellaoui, managing director of Newen Distribution.
“We believe that it is the perfect time to be proactive in the UK, offering producers cash at an early stage, rapid decision-making and privileged access to major continental European markets, as well as our strong worldwide trading relationships.
“We want to apply Newen’s successful entrepreneurial spirit to the UK distribution and coproduction market. We are open to different kinds of partnership to create a special route between Europe through core territories such as France, giving access to more financing and broadcasters at a very early stage.
“The Newen Group is ready to take risks and, thanks to its own production pipeline, can offer far more than just investment.”
