Beta Film takes stake in Lineup Industries bringing together complementary
international distribution businesses

Beta Film GmbH, one of the world’s leading distribution companies, has taken a minority stake in independent formats sales business Lineup Industries, which was founded by illustrious distribution executives Ed Louwerse and Julian Curtis in 2014.

Lineup will continue to operate independently but will benefit from Beta Film’s established position in the international media industry as it looks to further grow its position as the experienced ‘go-to’ sales agent for light entertainment and formats distribution globally, as well as gaining infrastructure support. In turn, Beta Film will gain access to Lineup’s network and expertise in these specific genres, which will complement its growing formats business as it continues to diversify its reach into non-fiction.

Ed Louwerse co-founder of Lineup Industries said: “While we remain independent, this is such a natural fit that it was an opportunity too good to miss. We have known and respected Beta Film for many years and as we look to further grow our business and our footprint globally, we feel that this is an ideal, complementary partnership with significant benefits to our businesses.”

Moritz von Kruedener, Managing Director Beta Film: “In the past years, the Beta Group has strengthened its positon as producer of scripted and, more recently, non-scripted entertainment formats through our backing of the German key non-fiction player Seapoint Productions. Joining forces with media veterans such as Ed and Julian is an excellent opportunity and a natural next step to also expand our distribution activities in the format business.

Lineup Industries has a slate of standout formats and finished programming including: the enduringly popular global hit Long Lost Family; community resolution and restorative shows The Bully Project and Radio Gaga; gameshows Switch and Keep Calm and documentary formats such as the fast-paced Emergency Call and the heart-moving and compelling Chasing Their Dreams.