Tinopolis, an independent TV production and distribution company in the UK, has acquired Passion Distribution Limited (Passion), a global media distribution company. The transaction adds to Tinopolis’s existing distribution business and is the latest acquisition in its strategy of expanding its international reach and capabilities. It follows the acquisitions in 2011 of A. Smith & Co and Base Productions, both of which are Los Angeles-based and are major suppliers to US networks and cable channels.
Passion Distribution was incorporated in 2008 by Sally Miles who will continue to lead Passion. Following the move, Miles will also oversee Mentorn International, the existing distribution arm of Tinopolis. Tinopolis and Passion will continue to grow Passion’s existing business and brand through investment in third party content and co-productions with the support of the wider group.
Tinopolis, backed by private equity firm Vitruvian Partners, has created a global media company based on several leading independent businesses. The group includes Mentorn, Daybreak Pictures, Pioneer and Sunset+Vine. The range of programmes produced extends to documentaries and factual, sport, comedy, flagship current affairs series, critically-acclaimed dramas and high rating entertainment formats, as well as human interest, history and science. Tinopolis is responsible for television shows such as Question Time, Traffic Cops, Hell’s Kitchen and the London Paralympic Games coverage.
“Tinopolis’s strategy is to develop and grow as a Group that is successful creatively and financially with a strong international reach. With over 40% of our business now outside the UK, we needed a distribution business that could match this and in Sally and her team we have found our ideal partners” said Ron Jones, Executive Chairman of Tinopolis.
“The existing catalogue sold under Mentorn International will introduce Passion to new genres including drama and comedy. We also plan to invest further and expand our global digital business, increasing revenue opportunities on behalf of our content suppliers,” said Miles.
