Stephen Driscoll

VP, International Sales, ALL3MEDIA

Have you seen signs of recovery in Central and Eastern Europe?

Yes, we have seen signs of recovery this year. A number of buyers who were unable to acquire programmes they wanted last year have now returned to complete those deals.

Have you noticed your business in the region strengthen due to an increase in channels?

This year we have been very happy to sign deals with new clients in Russia and Ukraine

How has your business been overall in Central and Eastern Europe (and what territories have been strong in particular)?

I would say business this year has been challenging with deals focused on the “must have” titles. The major broadcasters are still relatively strong and enjoying good ratings but with lower ad revenue than is required, there is pressure on budgets for acquisitions and format productions. But we are past the worst of it and the past 3 months have been very encouraging with Poland making a particularly strong return.

What genres have been the strongest performers from your catalogue in the region?

Drama is by far the strongest revenue generator for our company in CEE. Midsomer Murders, Wild at Heart and Skins all perform extremely well in this region year on year.

What are some of the titles you’re highlighting for DISCOP and why do you think these will be particularly appealing for the buyers?

We have a large slate of new shows for this market but highlights are Going Postal (2×2), a $10 million Fantasy Adventure Mini-series based on the novel by Terry Pratchett which will be very suitable for a holiday season slot and Undercover Boss which has been a huge hit for CBS in the States and is achieving both format sales, and sales for the UK and US finished versions.