The morning kicked off with panels focused on commissioning and acquisition strategies, where buyers from networks such as Channel 4, Keshet 12, and RTP made it clear that a good idea alone is no longer enough: what they’re looking for are concepts with a clear identity, international potential, and commercial viability from the very start. Meanwhile, the session dedicated to kid’s programming confirmed that the segment is undergoing a profound transformation, with digital media shifting from a complement to a driver of growth, distribution, and monetization.
One of the most talked-about moments of the day was the “Behind the Curtain” session, organized in partnership with FRAPA, which highlighted specific examples of formats that managed to break the rules. Stories like “Dragon’s Den”, “The A Talks”, “Blue Therapy”, and the quiz show “Wisdom of the Crowd” offered a series of lessons that were echoed in the hallways: look at ideas without prejudice, identify a clear core, and, above all, stay persistent in the face of rejection. In an increasingly competitive market, the journey of these titles made it clear that success does not stem from single formulas, but rather from consistent strategic decisions.
Along the same lines, several conversations revolved around how formats today extend their value beyond the screen. Live experiences, licensing, and digital strategies are emerging as new revenue streams in a context of tight budgets. The relationship between distributors, producers, and broadcasters is also being redefined toward more collaborative models, where joint development from early stages becomes key to making projects viable.
Another theme that ran through the day was the place of European independent producers in a landscape of growing consolidation. Amid super-indies, global studios, and integrated platforms, independence is no longer just a structural condition, but a strategy that demands adaptability, partnerships, and an international vision.
LC