Banff honours A+E Networks

US cablenets operator A+E Networks has been named the company of distinction for the 2015 Banff World Media Festival.

Introduced in 2013 with CBS Corporation and continued in 2014 with Lionsgate Entertainment, the Company of Distinction programme is an opportunity for the festival to pay homage to a prestigious company demonstrating significant leadership in the world of screen-based entertainment.

A+E Networks started in 1984 with two cable channels and has grown into a major international player with its A&E, History, Lifetime, H2, FYI and LMN in the US, rolling out into 180 territories around the world.

The company has spawned series including Pawn Stars, Dance Moms, Duck Dynasty, Vikings and Hatfields & McCoys. It launched an in-house production company in June 2013 and topped that up with an international distribution arm earlier this month.

The accolade will see A+E Networks executives, producers and talent feature throughout the four-day festival, which takes place from June 7 to 10 next year at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Canada.