ZED, Saint Thomas agree distribution pact

STP’s factual catalogue includes 4K programming such as Space Smash

France’s ZED has agreed a distribution deal with Marseille-based documentary specialist Saint Thomas Productions (STP) covering most of the latter’s current catalogue.

Under the agreement, ZED will handle international sales of all of STP’s recent output, which consists of a library of more than 75 hours of scientific, wildlife and factual programming.

Recent STP productions include Space Smash (1×52′), which is shot in 4K and will be launched at MipDoc later this year, and The Otter Island (1×52′), which is also shot in 4K and is currently in production, with delivery scheduled for early summer.

Producer-distributor ZED currently represents 30 prodcos, handling distribution of their output to broadcasters around the world.

Chloé Persyn-Preljocaj, head of international sales and acquisitions at ZED, said: “The outstanding quality of this catalogue will allow our sales team to meet our clients’ growing demand for scientific and wildlife documentaries.”

Bertrand Loyer, president of STP, added: “To face international competition and the growing plethora of rights, it has become essential to give our evergreen catalogue a chance to conquer new markets and find new outlets.

“We know the original strengths of our independent production companies. While ZED was investing in international sales, STP founded a department specialising in computer-generated imagery. This agreement should lead to greater synergies and give a competitive advantage to both our companies.”