ITV, the largest ad-funded broadcaster in the UK, has confirmed that it is actively exploring the possibility of acquiring All3Media in a deal worth around £1B ($1.3B). All3Media, which is behind popular shows such as The Traitors and Fleabag, is one of the country’s most prestigious production groups, with around 50 production labels under its umbrella. Responding to a Reuters report, ITV stated that a deal with All3Media’s parent companies Warner Bros. Discovery and Liberty Global was not certain but that it would make a further announcement if and when appropriate.
ITV Studios
ITV has grown its production arm, ITV Studios, into one of the world’s most powerful content creators over the past decade. If the acquisition goes ahead, it would represent ITV’s biggest acquisition to date. However, it could also attract the attention of competition authorities.
Other Potential Bidders
Banijay is said to be considering taking a look at All3Media, while RTL-owned Fremantle, which has been actively acquiring in recent years, could also express interest. The parent companies of All3Media, Warner Bros. Discovery and Liberty Global, engaged bankers at JP Morgan to conduct an auction for the production group last month.
All3Media’s Financial Performance
All3Media’s revenues rose by 32% to a record £867M in 2021, according to accounts filed at the UK’s Companies House. Its earnings before interest, taxes, and depreciation stood at £84M. The company has been under Discovery and Liberty Global’s control for nearly a decade after being sold to the US media giants for £500M in 2004. Discovery merged with Warner Bros. last year.