RTL MCN buys kids and family channels group

RTL’s multichannel operator BroadbandTV has acquired YoBoHo, a YouTube networks curator and content producer.

The deal, for an undisclosed amount, sees BroadbandTV add a company with a library of more than 8,000 original videos in the kids space, 27 education- and preschool-focused channels, and more than three billion views a year.

Among YoBoHo’s assets is HooplaKidz, which operates the channels and is one of YouTube’s largest kids and family-focused operators.

All 55 YoBoHo staff will join BroadbandTV, which sits alongside StyleHaul, SpotXchange and Divimove in the RTL multichannel stable. BroadbandTV also owns gaming vertical TGN, hip-hop music network Opposition and female lifestyle brand Kandesa.

Its investment into YoBoHo comes after Nielsen reported total online video consumption by kids aged 2- 11 increased 87% in the last three years.

“We’re very pleased to conclude the acquisition of a top player in the kids space at a time when the kids content vertical is experiencing burgeoning growth,” said Shahrzad Rafati (pictured), founder and CEO, BroadbandTV.

“BBTV is also making a multi-million dollar investment in YoBoHo to further expand its library of original content, broaden its international footprint, and further diversify its revenue streams.”

“Given YouTube’s tremendous commitment and investments in the kids and family vertical, we stand well positioned to capitalise on this momentum.”

“With significant investments in multi-channel networks, RTL Group has become the number two player in the YouTube ecosystem in less than 24 months,” added Guillaume de Posch, Co-CEO of RTL Group.

“BroadbandTV currently represents two thirds of RTL Group’s online video views, and its acquisition of YoBoHo is another milestone in our joint efforts to achieve leading positions in all segments of the rapidly growing online video space. It also underlines our commitment to foster the global growth of BroadbandTV.”