Superprod Group takes majority stake in French animation studio Watch Next Media

Clément Calvet and Jérémie Fajner

France’s Superprod Group has further strengthened its position in the European animation sector by acquiring a majority stake in French studio Watch Next Media (WNM).

The deal sees WNM join Superprod’s portfolio of animation labels, following the recent acquisitions of Luxembourg’s Melusine Studio, Italy’s Red Monk Studio, the UK’s Wheel in Motion and The Coproduction Company in the US.

WNM will continue to operate independently and will be run by CEO and founder Philippe Alessandri.

The deal will see WNM benefit from Superprod’s experience in premium CGI animation production while broadening its financing opportunities and talent pool.

Philippe Alessandri

WNM was founded in 2015 and has produced kids’ shows such as Nate is Late, Boy Girl Dog Cat Mouse Cheese and Hello Kitty: Super Style. WNM has also made live-action series Algiers Confidential and Nina & The Pig.

WNM has offices in Paris, Lille and Turin and operates its own distribution arm, Kids First.

Clément Calvet and Jérémie Fajner, founders of Superprod Group, said: “We have always admired Philippe’s entrepreneurial success and impeccable taste. He has consistently worked with the best partners and talents around the world.

“We are extremely proud to have Watch Next consolidate with our group. Our ambition remains to build a world-class leader in the kids and family space, and beyond.”

Alessandri said: “I’m proud to team up with Clément and Jeremie who have successfully built an international group over the last decade, without sacrificing their creative ambitions or their positive corporate culture.

“Our association will allow us to share expertise, find natural synergies and increase our investment capacities, which will help make a difference in a market that has become more competitive than ever.”