MUMBAI: Endemol Nederland BV and the Dutch telecommunications company KPN signed a non-binding Letter of Intent (LOI) for the establishment of a joint venture. The purpose of the joint venture is the exploitation of Endemol content through all KPN platforms in the Dutch market.
The deal covers a number of digital theme channels for KPN TV and access to Endemol content in the form of 'video-on-demand' both via the internet and mobile telephone. In addition to exclusive content for the joint venture, the content will also be distributed via third parties.
The joint venture will have access to the Endemol library, including both national and international formats with strong titles, such as Medisch Centrum West, The Mounties, Mini Playback Show, De Fabriek , Tien voor Taal, etc.
In addition to existing material, the joint venture will also produce new programming material based on the point of departure that the material will be suitable for distribution via all available platforms. Furthermore, the joint venture will develop new forms of advertising.
KPN TV and media business unit director Ludolf Rasterhoff said, "This is a major step forward in the new way of watching television. By taking this step KPN is able to secure unique, high-quality Endemol content for all its platforms. With the new form of production we will be able to supply all KPN platforms, such as TV, mobile telephones and the Internet with specific content."
Endemol Nederland commercial director Dick van der Graaf said, "We are looking forward to having KPN as our partner in this joint venture. We are enthusiastic about KPN's strategy and ambitions with respect to digital television. The unique aspect of KPN is the fact that, in addition to its national domestic distribution network, it is also able to access the consumer out of doors."
In 2004, KPN also started offering television in the Netherlands as part of its multi-play services. KPN and Endemol are currently conducting talks with other partners who have also shown an interest in the joint venture.
