Contender buys into DVD business

In the UK, Contender Entertainment Group (CEG) has acquired a local DVD distribution and marketing company, giving the combined group an annual turnover of more than £20m.

CEG, the company behind Tractor Tom and Peppa Pig, has bought Medusa Communications and Marketing, whose library includes hit sitcom Will & Grace and Jackie Chan titles.

The new company will go under the banner Contender Entertainment Group, with the company’s founder Richard Bridgwood remaining as md. Medusa’s David Hodgins and Stephen Rivers will become directors of the new company.

“This acquisition is a key strategic step for CEG,” said Bridgwood. “It will enable us to expand our investments in UK video properties and in new, wholly owned CEG properties such as Tractor Tom and Peppa Pig.

Medusa Communications and Marketing was set up by Hodgins and Rivers in 1995.