UK distributors, government create TV Export Group

Twelve of the most powerful UK distributors have joined forces with the UK government to create a Television Export Group.

The companies in question will work with UK Trade & Investment, a government group that helps UK business in international markets, to maximise opportunities for UK-based producers and distributors.

TEG’s remit is to coordinate the activities of the distributors and government bodies, to identify key markets for program sellers and to exchange information on international markets.

The organisers are at pains to point out that the TEG is an advisory group and not a trade body. It won’t, they say, attempt to replace the now-defunct British Television Distributors Association. The BTDA was wound down in 2004 and its activities absorbed by PACT, the indie producers’ trade group.

A TEG spokesperson said that PACT can attend its meetings if it chooses to and that the two can work together on research and relevant projects, where appropriate.

The TEG member companies include All3Media International, Endemol UK, FremantleMedia, RDF and BBC Worldwide.

Steve Macallister, managing director of sales and distribution at BBC Worldwide said: "The formation of a dedicated Television Export Group is a welcome move that recognizes the long-term importance and value of TV within the creative industries."

The full membership at launch is: ALL3MEDIA International; BBC Worldwide; C4i; Channel 5; Cineflix International; Endemol UK; FremantleMedia; IMG; ITV Global Entertainment; Mentorn International; Outright Distribution; and RDF Rights.

UKT&I said that other UK distributors are free to join the group.