After increasing the amount of local content it produces from 5–30% in the five years to 2017, the United Group is to invest €100 million in such programming across Serbia, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia.
United Group claims to be the largest alternative telecoms provider in the South East Europe region operating in two main business segments: telco platforms and media, which includes content and advertising. The company claims that its United Media channels were among the top two viewed pay-TV channels in Serbia, Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2017.
The new programming investment plan, says United, is a clear indication of its commitment to supporting local talent and capabilities. Plans for further content investment include commissioning new screenplays, series and other local productions.
Over the last year, United Group has produced content including popular dramas, talent shows and children’s programmes. These include crime drama Shadow over the Balkans (Black Sun), directed by Dragan Bjelogrlić, has been commissioned for a second season as part of the planned investment; crime drama My Father’s Killers; most popular regional music talent show Grand Stars; the Practical Woman lifestyle show; cartoons Pilići and Kefalica.
Commenting on the investment programme, United Group advisory board chairman Dragan Šolak said: “In the era of global media players such as Netflix, local audiences still value shows and movies that reflect their lives and experiences. United Group’s plan to invest €100 million in local content is a show of faith in the network of local talent including producers, actors and musicians. I am excited to see what more the region has to offer.”
Added Shadow over the Balkans director and screenwriter, Dragan Bjelogrlić; “United Group’s investment and belief in local films, drama and talent is extremely welcome. As technology changes the way we consume content, giving viewers more control over what and when they watch, I believe that channels like TOP channel are revolutionising broadcasting in the region.”