In a surprising turn of events, the organizers of MIPTV are reportedly in advanced talks to establish a new event called MIP London in 2025. If the plans come to fruition, it would mark the end of MIPTV in Cannes after its upcoming edition in 2024. MIPTV and its larger counterpart Mipcom, which will continue to run in Cannes in October, are currently operated by RX France. The potential move to London would align with the London TV Screenings in February, creating a new market opportunity. This article delves into the potential implications of this development and the changing landscape of the international TV industry.
MIPTV has been a longstanding fixture in the diaries of international TV professionals for over six decades. Every spring, industry players would flock to Cannes for deal-making, networking, and the overall ambiance of the event. However, the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with industry belt-tightening and the emergence of successful new events, has forced the organizers to reassess the future of MIPTV. The potential move to London could be part of RX France’s long-term strategy for its TV events, but no final decision has been made yet.
London has been gaining traction as a TV hub in recent years, hosting events like Content London and Series Mania. The London TV Screenings, initially a small gathering, has now transformed into a major showcase for international content companies. Organized by All3Media, Banijay, Fremantle, and ITV Studios, the event attracts 29 distributors and has become an integral part of the international TV calendar. By establishing MIP London in February, coinciding with the London TV Screenings, London could become the center of a massive international TV extravaganza.
The discussions around a potential London move for MIPTV highlight an industry that is rapidly evolving. Content creators and distributors are seeking new avenues to connect with buyers and market their shows. The success of events like Content London and Series Mania has put pressure on the traditional markets, necessitating a reimagining of established industry events. With travel and expenses budgets being stretched, a London event in February could offer a more convenient and cost-effective solution for industry professionals.
The future of MIPTV has been a topic of debate in international circles for several years now. Swapping Cannes for London would undoubtedly change the landscape of the international TV business. However, it is important to note that any discussions surrounding MIPTV, Cannes, and London will not impact Mipcom in October, which remains the largest international TV event of the year. Major distributors and hundreds of U.S. executives continue to prioritize Mipcom in their calendars, ensuring its significance in the industry.
If the 2024 edition of MIPTV in Cannes is indeed the last one, it will bring an end to an era filled with memories, deals, and friendships formed over the years. Executives who have been regular attendees will likely have mixed feelings about bidding farewell to Cannes. Nevertheless, the potential establishment of MIP London in 2025 opens up new opportunities and signifies the evolving nature of the industry.
The talks about setting up a new event, MIP London, in 2025 indicate a significant shift in the international TV landscape. MIPTV, a long-standing fixture in Cannes, may be making way for a London-based market aligned with the London TV Screenings. The potential relocation reflects the changing dynamics of the industry and the need for innovative solutions to connect content creators, distributors, and buyers. While the future of MIPTV may be uncertain, the industry remains eager to adapt and find new avenues for collaboration and success.