AMC buys German pay TV channel

Bruce Tuchman

AMC/Sundance Channel Global has bought the German pay TV channel Kinowelt.

The basic-tier movie channel is distributed throughout Germany, Austria and Switzerland and is programmed with classic and contemporary feature films.

Financial terms for the purchase, which requires regulatory approval, were not disclosed. AMC has acquired the channel from its existing management.

Achim Apell will continue to be KinoweltTV’s managing director and the channel’s existing management team will remain in place.

Apell said: “ We are convinced that our audience as well as our distribution partners will benefit from the effects caused by this acquisition and that after ten successful years of broadcast we’ve chosen the best possible international partner to take our business to the next level. ”

AMC has been increasing its channel footprint, notably with the US$1 billion acquisition of Chellomedia last year.

Bruce Tuchman, president of AMC/Sundance Channel Global and MGM Channel Global, said: “The acquisition of KinoweltTV is an important moment for AMC/Sundance Channel Global as it increases its international footprint and provides widespread distribution across all major platforms throughout German speaking Europe.”

He added: “KinoweltTV’s high quality critically acclaimed films complement Sundance Channel’s distinctive programming and we expect this acquisition will fit perfectly into our portfolio.”

AMC/Sundance Channel Global is the international arm of US-listed AMC Networks and includes the Sundance Channel and We TV channel brands.