The Banijay-All3Media merger is a significant development in the television industry, marking the creation of the largest independent production group. This article explores the implications of this consolidation, focusing on the creative and strategic challenges it presents. The author, an industry veteran, reflects on the evolution of production companies, from the acquisition of Brighter Pictures by Endemol in 2001 to the current merger. The key point is that while consolidation brings financial benefits, it doesn't necessarily translate to creative success. The author argues that the true value lies in the ability to preserve the identity of production labels while leveraging the resources of a larger group. This is particularly important in the context of the changing television landscape, where the traditional commissioning economy is being challenged. The article highlights the need for production companies to develop new skills, such as building direct relationships with audiences and expanding into digital publishing, live entertainment, and IP management. The Little Dot Studios acquisition is seen as a strategic move, offering expertise in digital publishing and audience development. However, the author warns that simply assembling larger production groups won't secure the next stage of growth. The challenge is to create more ways of building businesses around intellectual property, a task that requires a delicate balance between centralization and decentralization. The author speculates that the next phase of consolidation may involve acquiring businesses with specific capabilities, such as creator businesses, digital publishers, or live-events operations, rather than traditional television labels. This shift in focus reflects the industry's evolution from a production-centric model to a broader entertainment business. The article concludes by questioning the future of the 'super-indie' concept, suggesting that the next great production group may need to think and operate beyond traditional television production, embracing a more diverse and integrated approach to entertainment.
