Defiance Founder Sets Up New Outfit

NEW YORK: Jon Loew, the founder and former president of Defiance Distribution, has set up a new production and distribution outfit, Big Media, targeting the worldwide market.

Defiance launched its pay-per-view business in the U.S. in 2001, with Loew at the helm. In 2005, Defiance was acquired by Bellrock Media. Loew exited the company in 2007, and since his departure has been consulting for a variety of media and technology firms, as well as serving on the boards of media companies in Europe.

"Because so many traditional distribution and broadcast methods are being challenged today, I see many opportunities for nimble distribution companies," said Loew. "There are inefficiencies in the market at the moment, and we intend to take advantage of them."

On what opportunities still exist for entrepreneurs today, Loew commented: "I believe we are seeing a leveling of the media playing field around the world. Every day we are seeing broadcast capacity increased—either through digitalization of television, or through new Internet-based distribution. Where there are eyeballs there is money, you just have to know how to reach them. I think we are going to see more and more original programming produced and distributed by small shops—who are willing to think BIG."

Big Media is currently assembling an executive team, and will announce several global distribution deals and partnerships in the lead up to MIPCOM.