Shine, Talpa partner in French venture

Shine Group’s French arm and Jon de Mol’s Dutch distributor Talpa Media have entered into a joint venture targeting the French market.

The 50/50 venture from Shine France and Talpa Media has exclusive rights to sell, adapt and produce all Talpa formats, including Dating in the Dark, Viper’s Nest, Guesstimation, Divided and Know Your Nation.

Shine France CEO Theirry Lachkar will head the venture, which is currently unnamed. He said: “Shine France has the international network and the domestic production capacity. Talpa is developing a great catalogue of up-to-date formats in many different genres attracting a vast audience. Together we expect to grow to a strong and successful position in the dynamic French market.”

De Mol added: “Over the past year Talpa Media has been exploring the international media industry with respect to our growth strategy. In fact, there are three ways to enter a market: start by yourself, acquire an existing company or go for a partnership. I’m convinced that for Talpa the latter can be a sensible and fruitful way.”