One of the first major syndication markets to be launched virtually, MIPCOM 2020 is seeing hectic activity amongst buyers and sellers.
Mipcom, the world’s largest content market, commenced its 2020 virtual edition on 12 October. Like its previous editions, this time too the market has attracted a sizable Indian presence.
The annual content syndication conglomeration this year is titled Mipcom Online+, and is based on a high-end artificial intelligence driven platform called Grip. It is developed by a sister tech firm under Relx group, of which organiser Reed Midem is a part.
The virtual exhibition has proved to be hugely successful with more than 6,000 professionals including 800 virtual exhibitors and 26 country pavilions and 2,200 buyers participating virtually from 100 countries.
Reed Midem initially planned to conduct both digital and physical versions ( in Cannes) of Mipcom like it has done for decades, but owing to the continuous battle with COVID-19, it moved completely virtual. The online version received great response and within a month, attracted significant participation – probably the most by a trading market in its online avatar in 2020.
Commenting on Mipcom Online+ Reed Midem TV division director Laurine Garaude said, “We are very pleased to be receiving strong support from the industry which is quite excited about meeting online in the current international environment when meeting in person from around the world is not yet possible. We are, of course, sad not to be meeting in Cannes for the 36th Mipcom. But we are also excited about the new Mipcom experience that we are creating online.”
Mipcom Online+ has equally attracted kids content creators, producers, investors and more, even from India. This year too, the Services Export Promotion Council (SEPC) has a prominent presence through its virtual pavilion, with more than 12 companies coming under its umbrella and taking advantage of the cost benefits it offers.
SEPC chairman Manek Dawar stated, “Mipcom is one of the important markets we have identified to help push Indian entertainment exports. We wanted to be aggressive, but we will wait for next year’s edition in Cannes and really fire on all cylinders.”
SEPC has additionally roped in content export veteran Hirachand Dand to spearhead its entertainment division. The online SEPC initiative is being headed by SEPC deputy director general Abhay Sinha.
Overall, more than 70 executives from India’s media and entertainment sector – covering TV, TV production, animation, distributors of TV shows and films, dubbing services – are taking part in Mipcom Week which is slated to end on 16 October. However, the platform will be open for screenings, virtual meetings, networking and matchmaking till 17 November. The noted Indian (animation, live-action and VFX) studios include GOQuest Media, One Life Studios, Cosmos-Maya, Toonz Animation, Neela Telefilms and many more.
India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh (Mip markets) representative Anil Wanvari added, “I am really delighted with the India presence at Mipcom Online +. Content syndication and trading have been at a low because of COVID-19. For many companies it is a crucial revenue stream. I am really hoping the next few days and weeks will help kickstart this engine for India’s content folks.”