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International Buyers From 12 Territories Launch Film Distribution Network Lokia On Eve Of AFM
International film buyers operating in 12 territories have formed Lokia, a distribution network intended to help independent companies respond to market consolidation and falling international pre-sales. The partners aim to develop and produce projects together, share market intelligence and pursue licensing opportunities, with the longer-term goal of acquiring films collectively and gaining larger stakes in intellectual property.
The founding partners will remain separate businesses and continue buying films individually for their own markets; they are not expected to make joint acquisitions at the American Film Market. Lokia is incorporated in Luxembourg, and its operating platform is live, with distribution and licensing partners being onboarded. The network is developing projects that have not yet been announced, and could add more companies in the coming months.
In short
- Buyers from 12 territories have formed the Lokia distribution network.
- Partners will share intelligence and explore joint development and licensing.
- Collective acquisitions are planned for later, not at this year’s AFM.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Independent film buyers could gain bargaining power and share market knowledge by co-operating across territories, helping them respond to consolidation and weaker pre-sales. Developing projects together and pursuing licensing opportunities may also give members a greater role in valuable intellectual property while preserving their ability to buy films independently.
The case against
A shared network may prove difficult to turn into meaningful influence if its members remain separate businesses and continue making acquisitions individually. Co-ordinating across territories could add complexity, and collective development or licensing plans may not deliver larger stakes or stronger returns unless partners can align their interests and commit resources.
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