If you want to witness interesting discussions about the newest achievements and trends in the international, regional and local TV industries, you have already secured your badge in order to mix business with pleasure by the sea at the unique New Europe Market, the largest regional event devoted to the TV industry in the CEE region which is being held for the sixth year in a row in Dubrovnik between the 11th and 14th of June.
New Europe Market, which brings together the most prominent experts in television and the media, has revealed the topic of the first panel discussion titled “Chasing the audience: Can local production make the difference?” The main question facing the panellists is whether it is possible to increase public television viewer ratings with locally produced content.
Although FTA channels remain the most popular and most viewed, they are faced with a challenge where they need to keep their viewers by providing quality content and programming. On the other hand, those who prefer Pay-Tv think that VOD is the only way to keep viewers that is in keeping with trends, regardless of the share of local and publicly available production. Strengthened with new technologies, the position of the largest FTA channels in the CEE region have never been more secure… Or?
The first panel discussion in Dubrovnik will be moderated by Gün Akyuz, Research Editor from C21 Media, the renowned international publication devoted to the television industry.
Keeping the discussion intriguing and dynamic will be Matthias Settele, Director General of TV Markiza from Slovakia; Jan Maxa, Director for Development of Programs and Formats of Czech Television; Henning Tewes, CEO of RTL Croatia; Kazimir Bačić, Director General of Croatian Radiotelevision; Gabriella Vidus, CEO of RTL Hungary and Pete Smith, Managing Director of Antenna International.
One of the more esteemed panellists, Pete Smith, Managing Director of Antenna International, who also heads Antenna’s European network, has focussed his work over the past several years on rapid media growth in East Europe as well as on investment into content and digital companies:
“Since new platforms are appearing and including unique and autochthonous content, I truly believe that we are entering the golden age of local content production”, said Pete Smith with respect to the topic of the first panel discussion at this year’s NEM.
Pete was charged with film and television distribution, television production and Channels. He would frequently present strategic and financial problems to the Managing Board as well as all M&A transactions. Pete brought about a 44% growth during three years and completed acquisitions in Japan, South-East Asia and East Europe. He also increased the number of channels from 12 to 70 and developed a deal with Pay-Tv channels worth 500 million dollars. His production successes include Downton Abbey, Whitechapel and Law and Order: UK (three of ITV’s five best drama series).
This year marks the sixth edition of NEM, and will host renowned experts with immeasurable experience in the world of media in Dubrovnik between the 11th and 14th of June. Along with panels, a market and screenings, all the guests will enjoy traditional parties and informal get-togethers. Book your badge and accommodation today!
