Zodiak to Merge with Banijay

French production companies Zodiak Media and Banijay Group have agreed to merge, creating one of the world's largest independent production and distribution groups.

April 6, 2018

Combined company will be largest independent production house in the world.

French production companies Zodiak Media and Banijay Group have agreed to merge, creating one of the world's largest independent production and distribution groups.

The combined company will boast revenues of around $1 billion and will be the largest production company in the world that is not controlled by a media group with a footprint in more than 18 territories.

As part of the merger Zodiak and Banijay Group will combine their complementary catalogs and production units. Banijay founder Stéphane Courbit will become chairman of the new entity, while Banijay chief executive officer Marco Bassetti (formerly Endemol Group president) will be appointed CEO of the merged company.

An extensive sales arm will handle worldwide rights distribution and licensing for both in-house and third-party content.

Banijay boasts a range of content that includes shows such as "Sing It On," "The Missing," "The Story Behind" and "Where Are They Now?" and formats including "Temptation Island" and "Battle the Chef."

Meanwhile, Zodiak brings its own robust roster to the mix with shows including "Celebrity Wife Swap," "Being Human" and "The Secret Millionaire," as well as a large slate of children's content including "Mister Maker, "Totally Spies!" and "Waybuloo."