A Comprehensive Overview of Top-Tier Broadcast Syndication Firms
In the ever-evolving world of Film and TV, finding the right syndication partner is crucial for maximizing a content's value. Key criteria include market reach, genre expertise, and reputation. This article will explore the intricacies of broadcast syndication, the benefits it brings, and some top global syndication companies for content creators to consider partnering with.
The Power of Syndication
Broadcast syndication is the practice of leasing the right to broadcast television shows and films to multiple television stations and networks without going through a central broadcast network. This practice has been instrumental in the continued availability of iconic shows like 'Friends' or 'Seinfeld' decades later, thanks to off-network syndication.
Two main types of syndication exist: first-run and off-network. First-run syndication involves brand new shows created specifically for the syndication market, while off-network syndication involves shows that have already aired on a major network.
Going Global
Going global can extend a show's lifespan and diversify income. Content may need dubbing, subtitling, or cultural adaptation for foreign markets, but the rewards are substantial. International syndication can unlock massive audiences and revenue streams, as broadcasters worldwide are hungry for quality content, and American shows often perform exceptionally well abroad.
Top Syndication Companies
Warner Bros. Discovery (Upcoming: Discovery Global Networks)
Although Warner Bros. Discovery is rearranging its assets, its linear networks will fall under the new "Discovery Global Networks" banner. This includes prominent brands like CNN, TNT, Discovery, HGTV, and Food Network. Partnering with such a large network can provide creators access to a vast global audience, especially across cable and streaming platforms.
Nexstar Media Group
Following its acquisition of Tegna, Nexstar is expanding its footprint in U.S. local television, making it a significant player in the broadcast industry. Creators can leverage Nexstar's extensive reach across local markets for syndication opportunities.
LinkingNews.com
This platform offers news syndication services across major networks in the U.S. and internationally. It supports white-label distribution, allowing agencies to maintain their branding. Useful for content creators looking to syndicate their work through reputable media outlets.
Pixability
Known for its Super Signal Aggregation (SSA) technology, Pixability helps advertisers target emerging creators. It recently partnered with Famous Birthdays to enhance creator discovery. While primarily focused on advertising, Pixability's data insights can help creators understand audience trends and identify collaboration opportunities.
Other Press Release Distribution Services
Companies like PR Newswire, Business Wire, and GlobeNewswire provide robust platforms for distributing press releases. While not traditional syndication services, they can help creators reach a broader audience through publicity.
The Path to Syndication
The process of discovering broadcast partners in unfamiliar territories can be challenging. Technology like global marketplaces can help content creators discover and research potential distributors and syndicators from around the world. The process of syndication involves a distributor packaging a show and pitching it to various broadcasters.
In conclusion, partnerships with esteemed international broadcasters like the BBC, RTBF, SBS, or NTV can elevate a show's prestige. Joining platforms like our own, which tracks global Film & TV projects, partners, and deals, provides access to industry briefings trusted by leaders and data-driven intelligence for making connections confidently. Our platform offers a Project Tracker and the ability to search for distributors in specific regions, shortening the path from discovery to deal. When selecting a partner, creators should consider factors like target audience, content type, and the potential reach provided by each platform.
- Technology, such as global marketplaces, can aid content creators in discovering and researching potential broadcast partners and syndicators from around the world.
- In the realm of entertainment, partnerships with international broadcasters like BBC, RTBF, SBS, or NTV can elevate a show's prestige.
