Banijay has entered a Scheme Implementation Deed to acquire Beyond International.
Beyond is a scripted and non-scripted multi-territory content group, which is currently listed on the ASX. At the completion of the deal, however, it would be removed from the local stock exchange and become a wholly owned subsidiary of Banijay.
It boasts more than 8,000 hours of IP and recent production credits include “Love It or List It Australia”, “Troppo” and “Back in the Groove”, a new dating series for Hulu.
Banijay, meanwhile, originated in France. Locally, it has assets including Screentime and Endemol Shine Australia. Globally, it represents franchises including “Survivor”, “Big Brother”, “Black Mirror”, “MasterChef”, “Hunted” and “Love Triangle”.
Marco Bassetti, CEO of Banijay, said: “As content demand continues to soar, catalogue remains key, and in acquiring Beyond, we would take our offering up considerably. Primarily bolstering our IP and production portfolio in the English- language and factual space, with Beyond’s complementary content, the deal can enhance our position as a leading go-to for clients and commercial partners alike.”
Mikael Borglund, managing director and CEO of Beyond, will maintain his current role.
He said: “The Beyond Board is very much supportive of the deal, which will see us join Banijay’s group, bolstering its standing in what is an increasingly competitive market. Joining a leading global business like this is a very exciting opportunity for us and we look forward to collaborating on newfound opportunities ahead.”
The deal remains subject to certain conditions including approval from Beyond shareholders and the courts.
Banijay said it is hopeful the deal will be completed around the end of 2022 or beginning of 2023.