Live Entertainment Meets Media Giants: Banijay Set to Acquire Majority Stake in Balich Wonder Studio

Live Entertainment Meets Media Giants: Banijay Set to Acquire Majority Stake in Balich Wonder Studio

(IN BRIEF) Banijay, a prominent content group, has announced plans to acquire a majority stake in Balich Wonder Studio, a leading live entertainment company. The deal aims to create a global media and entertainment powerhouse by combining the strengths of both organizations. Balich Wonder Studio, known for its expertise in organizing prestigious events such as Olympic Games Ceremonies, has achieved significant success in the live entertainment industry. The partnership will leverage Banijay’s extensive creative network and Balich Wonder Studio’s renowned live entertainment team, fostering further growth and innovation. The acquisition is expected to be completed in the coming months, subject to customary closing conditions.

(PRESS RELEASE) PARIS, 15-Jun-2023 — /EuropaWire/ — Banijay, one of the largest international content producer and distributor with over 150 production companies across 22 territories, announced today its plans to acquire a majority stake in Balich Wonder Studio, a leading live entertainment player. The deal aims to combine the strengths of both companies, establishing a distinguished presence in the media and entertainment industry on a global scale.

With its strong foothold as a content powerhouse, Banijay has nurtured a creative network across 21 territories, housing 130 labels. This strategic move will leverage the creative and commercial capabilities of these two entities, paving the way for a unique offering in the dynamic media and entertainment landscape.

Founded in 2013, Balich Wonder Studio, based in Milan, has rapidly emerged as a prestigious live event creator and service provider. It has successfully organized numerous institutional ceremonies, brand experiences, and destination events. Notably, the company holds a remarkable track record, having orchestrated the most Olympic Games Ceremonies globally, including the forthcoming 2022 Qatar FIFA World Cup and the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. Balich Wonder Studio has also collaborated with esteemed brands such as Louis Vuitton, Ferrari, UEFA, and Dolce & Gabbana. In 2022 alone, the company reported revenues of €315m.

The partnership will unite the creative prowess of Banijay’s global talent collective, led by CEO Marco Bassetti, with the expertise of Balich Wonder Studio’s renowned live entertainment team, headed by founders Marco Balich, Gianmaria Serra, and Simone Merico. Supported by CEO Stefano Core, and partners Carolina Dotti and Valentina Saluzzi, renowned luxury experts, the collaboration represents a symbiotic alliance poised for significant growth and a new era of success.

Marco Bassetti, Chief Executive Officer Banijay: “Complementary to us in its ambition and entrepreneurialism, Balich has risen to be top of its game in the live-event space, and via this acquisition, there is huge potential for further pioneering growth. We feel fortunate the team chose to partner with us on this trailblazing move and can already see how together we can build additional creative and commercial synergies, to cement the collective as a media and entertainment powerhouse. In marrying our businesses, we will create a unique universe of globally-spanning premium content, and the world’s most-watched ceremonies and illustrious events – ultimately, a one-stop-shop for creativity.”

Marco Balich, Chairman Balich Wonder Studio: “We are glad that a world-class player like Banijay has chosen a committed creative team with the ambition to become the world’s most prestigious live entertainment group. Together we feel empowered to accelerate this journey. We share the passion for creativity, the ability to create exceptional content and spread emotions, culture, and beauty as pillars for a better world. Today, after ten years of extraordinary growth, we look forward to an exciting future and we are happy to continue inspiring wonder around the world”.

Beyond live events, Balich Wonder Studio has been instrumental in developing public destinations, including resident and water shows, immersive experiences, and iconic landmarks such as the “Tree of Life” at the World Expo and the striking ‘Whale Shark’ sculpture in Doha, symbolizing the preservation of Qatar’s natural environment.

With its presence in Europe and the Middle East, including the fast-growing high-end event management market, Balich Wonder Studio’s portfolio comprises two brands. The company’s commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles has propelled its rapid expansion and innovation, which will now be further amplified through this strategic partnership with Banijay.

The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to be finalized in the coming months. This transformative deal is set to redefine the industry landscape and drive creative expansion for both Banijay and Balich Wonder Studio.

SOURCE: Banijay Group