Entertainment One has entered into an agreement to acquire independent film distributor Alliance Films, making eOne the largest independent film distributor in both Canada and the U.K.

In addition to expanding eOne’s reach across Canada, the U.K., Benelux, Australia, the U.S. and Spain, the acquisition will also give eOne access to independent film studios like The Weinstein Company, Focus Features and Relativity.

“The combination of Entertainment One and Alliance Films will create the leading global independent film distribution business, which alongside our television and family divisions will deliver a strong strategic platform for long-term growth,” says Darren Throop, president and chief executive officer, eOne. “As a result of the acquisition, eOne will be a more competitive business in each of the geographic markets that we serve, allowing us to act as a more valuable partner for content producers and expanding the quality and depth of the content that we offer to our customers.”

eOne released 152 films this year, including The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn, Part 1 and Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy, and is presenting 18 films at the Toronto International Film Festival, which began Thursday and extends through Sept. 16.

In August 2011, eOne announced an expansion of its North American film operations and an increased commitment to theatrical distribution in the U.S. The company also expanded its international film businesses and its international television in the U.K. and Europe last year.