Even following Banijay’s withdrawal, the US studio Lionsgate remains an attractive takeover target for European media companies. Whilst Banijay CEO François Riahi stated at the end of July that the group would initially focus on integrating its most recent acquisitions and reducing debt, the Bolloré Group, with Canal+, and the French production group Mediawan are still regarded as potential suitors.
The potential sale of Lionsgate highlights a fundamental trend in the international media industry: the focus has long since shifted away from film studios or production capacity alone, and is now primarily on the rights to well-known brands and extensive film and TV series libraries.
Libraries are becoming a strategic asset
Lionsgate has a broad portfolio of successful brands such as John Wick, The Hunger Games, Saw and Twilight as well as an extensive film and television library. In addition, it has an international distribution network and production facilities for film and television series projects.
For potential buyers, the real value lies primarily in the wide range of exploitation opportunities offered by this content. Rights can be monetised time and again over many years through cinema, television, streaming services and international licensing deals. Depending on the market and platform, different licensing models and release windows can be utilised.
Current licensing deal highlights the value of the rights
A recent licensing agreement relating to the series’ universe demonstrates just how valuable such libraries can be Power. Lionsgate Television has granted Netflix the international streaming rights to several series in the franchise, whilst individual rights in the US or other territories remain with existing partners.
This example illustrates that the economic value of a library does not depend solely on the number of titles. What matters far more is which rights are available and how they can be marketed across different markets, platforms and time periods.
European consolidation continues
The potential entry of European media companies would be in line with the ongoing trend towards consolidation in the sector. Whilst Canal+ could further expand its international presence, Mediawan would, through Lionsgate, gain access not only to its growing production base but also to an established studio structure, international distribution and well-known film and TV series brands.
It remains to be seen whether a takeover will actually go ahead. One thing is clear, however: the value of film and TV series rights is increasingly becoming a decisive factor in transactions within the international media industry.