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ITV eyes Endemol auction UK broadcaster ITV is declining to comment on speculation that it is considering a bid for Big Brother producer Endemol. According to UK press reports, ITV is preparing to make an offer for Endemol as its owner, Telefonica, prepares to invite closed bids for the production giant. It is thought that Endemol has been a long-term strategic target for ITV. Endemol senior management are said to be well aware of ITV's interest. However, an ITV spokesman refuted the claims today. "We do not comment on speculation and that is all it is," he insisted. Endemol's founder John de Mol, Endemol France head Stephane Courbit and private equity group Apax are also expected to make bids for the producer. It is thought that bidding could begin as early as next week, when Endemol is expected to hold an EGM. If the move should go ahead, under new chief executive Michael Grade, it would significantly change the UK production landscape, potentially creating a studio system similar to the US model. ITV's exisiting production arm, ITV Productions, along with Granada USA and Australia, could merge with Endemol, creating a one-stop shop for ITV programming. While it would be bad news for smaller independents who rely on getting their next commission to survive, the move would also hurt rival broadcasters such as Channel 4, which houses lucrative formats like Big Brother. ITV would probably get a first-look deal on all Endemol programming. In turn, the indie sector would be encouraged to further consolidate to compete. Superindies like All3Media, RDF and Shed, and new entrants such as Iostar, could form even bigger congloms, while medium-sized indies may also look to sell up to larger groups. 8 Feb 2007 © C21 Media 2007 
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