Global production giant Banijay has confirmed it is exploring a takeover bid for ITV or its prized ITV Studios arm, in a move that could reshape Europe’s television landscape.
The Paris-founded and Amsterdam-listed group, led by French entrepreneur Stéphane Courbit, has held early discussions with ITV, although no final decision has been made.
Sources close to the talks suggest Banijay could either pursue a full takeover or target the studio business alone, valued independently at around £3 billion.
The news comes at a time of major expansion for Banijay in the West Midlands. Its Birmingham office, launched as a key creative hub, continues to grow in prominence, bolstered by a high-profile partnership with Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight.
Brum’s vibrant storytelling tradition
The collaboration, focused on bringing major new scripted productions to the region, reflects Banijay’s commitment to decentralising production and tapping into Birmingham’s vibrant storytelling tradition.
Banijay’s Birmingham base has been instrumental in Knight’s recent projects. The office is also set to play a strategic role should Banijay successfully merge with ITV Studios, whose portfolio includes hit shows like Love Island and Disney’s Rivals.
A combination of Banijay and ITV Studios would create one of Europe’s largest TV production groups, offering significant leverage at a time when broadcasters and streamers are tightening budgets. For more regional developments, explore our latest West Midlands news.
Big Brother and MasterChef
Banijay, already behind global hits such as Big Brother and MasterChef, would gain access to ITV’s formidable scripted and unscripted catalogue, strengthening its negotiating hand in a rapidly consolidating market.
While ITV has also been approached by Abu Dhabi-backed RedBird IMI and even considered buying rival All3Media, the Banijay move signals a potentially transformational shift for the UK media giant.
Liberty Global, ITV’s largest shareholder, is reported to back management’s efforts to explore strategic options.
Jobs and investment
With Birmingham’s creative industries increasingly central to Banijay’s ambitions, any deal would likely bring further investment, jobs and international profile to the region – a prospect that has local leaders and industry insiders watching developments closely.
