Charting the future of Europe’s audiovisual industry
A gathering of minds in San Sebastian
On a bright Sunday morning, some of Spain’s most influential industry figures, alongside international counterparts, convened in San Sebastian. The agenda? To map out a strategic plan for the future of Europe’s audiovisual sector. The conference, titled “Partnerships and Investments for the Consolidation of the European Audiovisual Ecosystem,” was a melting pot of ideas and insights.
Spain’s booming industry: A beacon of growth
Oscar López, Spain’s Minister for Digital and Public Service Transformation, wrapped up the event with a positive outlook on Spain’s thriving industry. Despite the challenges, he highlighted that the sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, with employment surging by 93% over the past three years. Spain has emerged as a leader in Europe for original content production, a testament to its dynamic and innovative industry.
Public-private partnerships: A virtuous circle
Concepción Cascajosa Virino, acting president of RTVE, emphasized the importance of a “virtuous circle” between public and private initiatives. She pointed to the €7.2 billion ($8.0 billion) investment from Europe’s public broadcasters into original content in 2023. This substantial investment has already resulted in 115 projects, including nine series and 38 documentaries, collaborating with 153 different production companies. This synergy between public and private sectors is driving the industry forward, promoting diversity and innovation.
The need for regulatory symmetry
Jaime Gutiérrez-Colomer, general manager of management and transformation at Atresmedia, raised concerns about regulatory asymmetry. He pointed out that while traditional broadcasters face stringent regulations, newer platforms like YouTube enjoy a more relaxed environment. “YouTube, the biggest sharing platform of content, has been competing in the advertising market for over 20 years,” he noted, urging for a level playing field. Addressing these regulatory gaps is crucial for fostering a fair and sustainable industry.
Securing talent amidst a boom
The current boom in Spain’s audiovisual sector is both exciting and challenging. Sandra Tapia of Arcadia Motion Pictures cautioned that rapid growth must be managed carefully. “It’s a good time, but also a dangerous one,” she warned, referring to the escalating costs and competition for skilled crews and actors. Strategic decisions are needed to maintain sustainable growth.
Alfonso Blanco, CEO of Portocabo, echoed this sentiment, calling it a “Golden Age” for television production in Spain. However, he warned that the race to secure resources could weaken the sector if not managed carefully.
Cross-border collaboration: Imagine beyond your borders
Cross-border collaboration is essential for the European audiovisual sector to thrive. Jérôme Vidal, Senior Producer at France’s Noodles Production, urged producers to “imagine beyond your borders.” He stressed the importance of international co-productions in competing on a global scale. His consistent co-production work with Spanish partners has led to successful films like Mondays in the Sun, demonstrating the benefits of cross-cultural exchange.
Arne Helsingen, secretary-general of Denmark’s Nordvision, highlighted the importance of building trust with long-term partners, especially in neighboring countries. He cited the success of the Nordic 12 as a model, ensuring that 12 high-quality Nordic TV dramas are available annually across public broadcasters. “You have to start with the people you have connections with,” he said, pointing out that regional collaborations often provide the foundation for larger, more ambitious projects.
Trust, IP, and sustainability
Intellectual property (IP) rights were a key concern for many attendees. Alfonso Blanco advocated for more flexibility in IP agreements, arguing that this would enable more international collaborations. He pointed out that holding onto IP rights heavily restricts producers’ ability to collaborate effectively with partners across borders. This practice needs to change for the industry to grow.
Alexandra Lebret, managing director of the European Producers Club, emphasized the need for a stable financial model to ensure sustainable long-term growth. “Predictability is what financiers are looking for,” she said, highlighting the importance of a reliable financial framework.
Personal reflections for cinema, TV series, and music enthusiasts
For cinema and TV series enthusiasts, the insights shared at the conference offer a glimpse into the future of the industry. The emphasis on public-private partnerships, regulatory symmetry, and cross-border collaboration highlights the dynamic and evolving nature of the sector. The success of films like Mondays in the Sun and the Nordic 12 model demonstrate the potential of international co-productions and regional collaborations.
For music enthusiasts, the parallels in the audiovisual sector’s growth and challenges can be seen in the music industry. The need for regulatory symmetry, securing talent, and fostering cross-border collaborations are equally relevant. The emphasis on IP rights and sustainable financial models resonates with the music industry’s ongoing efforts to adapt to a rapidly changing landscape.
Final thoughts
The conference in San Sebastian was a testament to the collaborative spirit and innovative thinking driving Europe’s audiovisual sector. As the industry continues to evolve, the insights and strategies discussed will play a crucial role in shaping its future. For enthusiasts and professionals alike, the emphasis on partnerships, regulatory balance, and sustainable growth offers a roadmap for navigating the exciting and challenging times ahead.