Kew, C4 back Two Rivers

Canada’s Kew Media Group and UK broadcaster Channel 4 are among the investors in a recently launched production outfit from the former MD of Scotland’s STV Productions.

Alan Clements

Kew, C4 and investment bank Noble Grossart are backing Two Rivers Media, which has been formed by Alan Clements, who left his role as MD at the production arm of Scottish broadcaster STV last year.

Kew holds an option to acquire a controlling stake in the company, while C4 is investing via its Indie Growth Fund. Further details of the deal have not been revealed.

Two Rivers unveiled its first commission earlier this week with Children of the Devolution for BBC Scotland. The docuseries will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the opening of the Scottish parliament.

The company will produce factual, daytime series, features, entertainment shows and scripted content. It has appointed Mick McAvoy, former head of documentaries and factual at STV Production, to head its factual business and is also recruiting in other genres.

Kew founder and CEO Steven Silver said his firm’s interest in Scotland-based Two Rivers “demonstrates the continued expansion of our international footprint, as well as our commitment to a broad range of content created by some of the best talent in our industry.”

Clements, CEO of Two Rivers Media, added: “Companies have launched with an international backer, an expert finance team or Channel 4 but never with all three. We share an exciting vision for our production company that is proudly Scottish but also focused on the UK and international markets.”

Jonathan Allan, chief commercial officer at C4, said: “As we prepare to open new creative hubs in Glasgow and Bristol, and a new national headquarters in Leeds, this investment is a further example of Channel 4’s commitment to nurturing and supporting the creative industries in the nations and regions.”