Disney to Take Controlling Stake in India’s UTV

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BURBANK/MUMBAI: The Walt Disney Company is taking a controlling interest in the Indian entertainment outfit UTV Software Communications, with plans to integrate the operations of the two companies.

UTV’s current CEO, Ronnie Screwvala, becomes managing director of The Walt Disney Company India. Screwvala will report to Andy Bird, the chairman of Walt Disney International.

Disney already owned a sizable stake in the company, which it plans to delist from the Indian stock exchange. Going forward, the studio will produce both UTV- and Disney-branded local films. The acquisitions makes Disney India’s leading film studio.

“Increasing our brand presence and reach in key international markets is a cornerstone of our growth strategy. This acquisition expands our footprint significantly and allows us to more effectively build, monetize and brand multiplatform franchises, and deliver a rich library of content to the world’s second largest population,” said Bird. “We couldn’t be more pleased that Ronnie, with his vast experience and proven track record, will now run our operations in India. Under his leadership, we will be able to deliver more programming on more platforms to this considerable audience.”

“In combining the creative capabilities of each company we will integrate a large stable of vibrant brands and franchises in the branded entertainment space,” added Screwvala. “With the middle class expected to grow from 50 million to more than 500 million people by 2025, this market offers huge potential for us to deliver quality branded entertainment to consumers.”