Kids First Merges with Superprod Group to Boost Children’s Programming Distribution

by

In an exciting advance for the animation and digital content sector, Superprod Group and Watch Next Media have unveiled a ground-breaking collaboration, combining their libraries and digital platforms. This merger represents the initial significant integration between Watch Next and Superprod, following a strategic alliance established in October 2024.

From March 31st onwards, shows such as “Hello Kitty Superstyle!”, “Nate is Late”, “Mr. Men”, and many others distributed by Watch Next’s Kids First, will be added to the library of Superights, the international sales division of Superprod. This merger will provide global buyers with a wider variety of top-notch children’s programs, encompassing over 1,000 half-hours of both animated and live-action content.

As a dedicated cinephile, I’m thrilled to share that Kids First Digital, formerly known as Kids First, is gearing up for a digital-focused transformation. This shift includes amplifying our efforts in digital channel publishing and maximizing the earnings from children’s content on revenue-sharing Video on Demand (VOD) platforms. In 2021 alone, we garnered an impressive 125 million views across 20 YouTube channels in four diverse languages.

Looking ahead to 2025, we’re planning an expansion with the introduction of popular series like “Pat the Dog,” “Hélène’s Little School,” and “Geronimo Stilton.” Additionally, we’re excited to launch new seasons of beloved shows such as “Nate is Late” and “Barbapapa.” These additions promise a richer and more engaging content experience for our young viewers. Here’s to an amazing cinematic journey ahead!

As a cinephile reviewer, I’m thrilled to share that Kids First Digital, part of Superprod Group, is set to leverage its unique resources and connections to boost the visibility and earnings of independent filmmakers’ works. By combining the strengths of these two dynamic entities, Superprod Group is carving out a strong niche in global distribution and digital exploitation. Their strategic approach aims to offer tailor-made solutions that adapt to the evolving demands of their subsidiaries and external content creators, ensuring they stay ahead in today’s rapidly changing media landscape.

Nathalie Pinguet, Deputy Managing Director of Acquisitions and International Sales at Superights, highlighted the importance of this merger: “This merger represents a pivotal move in our expansion plan. By incorporating Kids First’s catalog, we are enhancing our capacity to provide broadcasters worldwide with top-notch, complementary content tailored to cater to their varied requirements.

Eduardo Nolla, as the Digital Lead at Kids First, stated: “Using Superprod’s series, Kids First Digital can now elevate our digital distribution to unprecedented heights, effectively capitalizing on the global expansion of ADVOD platforms.

In October 2024, Superprod Group took control of over half the shares of French animation producer Watch Next Media. According to the agreement, Watch Next will carry on operating independently, with Philippe Alessandri still leading the team. This acquisition enables Watch Next to enhance its computer-generated (CG) animation skills and production, as well as providing them with additional financial options.

Joining the roster, Next now stands alongside an impressive collection of Superprod companies such as Superprod Animation (known for “Paddington” and “Miffy”), Melusine (“Wolfwalkers,” “The Summit of the Gods”), Redmonk Studio (“Underdog,” “Spirit Rangers”) and The Co-Production Company (“Iyanu”). The Superprod Group extends its creative reach into live-action film and series production through its affiliated entities.

Read More

2025-02-04 17:19