Absolutely Independent inks Dutch content exchange deal

Dutch distributor Absolutely Independent has entered into a “multi-layered” partnership with the video division of Netherlands media giant Telegraaf Media Groep. The deal will see the pair exchange content and develop and coproduced new programmes for the Dutch broadcast market.

As part of the deal, Absolutely’s format catalogue, which includes the likes of The Exit List, will be accessible to TMG’s Video Media division. The two companies plan to co-develop “a huge number of [Absolutely’s] creative format ideas”, they announced.

The news comes after former 2waytraffic topper Kees Abrahams’ new media group Imagine Nation took a 50% stake in Absolutely late last year.

Video Media produces more than 600 hours of television and video content annually, mainly in the news and current affairs and branded content spaces. Its parent, TMG, has interests in newspapers, radio, online media and magazines.

“Partnering with the biggest media group in the Netherlands will provide us with a bigger and broader outlet for all the creative content to which we have access. Furthermore, we will co-produce our joint projects, which is entirely in line with our new growth strategy,” said Absolutely’s CEO Patty Geneste.

“Besides our strong position in news and current affairs and branded content we are looking forward to developing our position in infotainment and entertainment by having access to Absolutely Independent’s substantial catalogue and formats ideas. We strongly believe that our competences complement one another and that our cooperation will inevitably lead to success,” said Frank de Horde, Video Media’s MD.