Interim Results
Operating highlights
- Significant growth in the Film Division driven by the acquisition of Alliance Films Holdings Inc. ("Alliance") and increased investment in acquired content, delivering improved margins, supported by Alliance integration synergies which are substantially complete
- Television Division delivered 130 half hours of television programming with new seasons ordered of Rookie Blue, Hell on Wheels, Rogue and Saving Hope, and signed a new exclusive three-year output deal with US-based AMC Networks
- The Family business continues to perform strongly with the Peppa Pig overseas licensing programme showing strong growth in the period
- Strong operating cash flow of £114.3 million, up 88% (2012: £60.8 million)
- Full year outlook in line with management expectations
Strategic highlights
- Independent annual valuation of the Group's film, television and music library has increased by almost 70% to over $650 million (2012: $385 million)
- Acquisition of Art Impressions, a Los Angeles based brand and licensing agency, significantly strengthens the Group's brand licensing business
- Inclusion in the FTSE 250 UK Index Series effective from 23 September 2013, following admission to the premium listing segment of the Official List of the Financial Conduct Authority on 1 July 2013
- Intention of the Board remains to announce an inaugural dividend, with payment to be made following the 2014 full year financial results
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