Endemol Purchases 1/3 share of Israeli broadcaster Reshet

Tel Aviv, Israel, December 23, 2013--Production house Endemol has acquired a 33% share of Reshet, one of Israel’s leading broadcasters. The move is Endemol’s second acquisition in the country after taking in April 2013 a controlling share in Israel’s leading independent producer Kuperman, which has now become Endemol Israel.

Based in Tel Aviv, Reshet has undergone significant growth in recent years and is currently the highest rating channel in the country. Endemol said that its investment will enable Reshet to build on its recent successful growth in ratings via increased investment in local shows and new cross-platform opportunities, with both parties combining strengths in growth areas such as brand extensions, second screen applications, mobile and digital video.

Commented CEO Just Spee:  “Israel is one of the world’s most innovative and creative markets; delivering exciting and successful formats with international appeal. Reshet is already a leading broadcaster in the region and with an outstanding management team the company is strongly positioned to continue its impressive growth. By joining forces with them we are able to significantly build our capacity to create new original, multi-platform content with global potential, which will be shared among Endemol’s worldwide creative network.” 

Avi Zvi, Reshet CEO remarked: “We are extremely excited about this partnership; Endemol choosing to invest in our company is a strong vote of confidence and recognition, not only in Reshet but also in the creativity and innovation of the Israeli TV market that has been renowned worldwide in recent years. Endemol’s vast experience in the international arena will allow Israel’s vibrant creative industry to bring premium programming to the global market, efficiently and successfully. Strengthening Reshet’s ownership structure with one of the largest television and format companies in the world will accelerate Reshet’s growth in both local and international markets.”