TV France International, the association connecting Gallic television pros with the international market, will close its doors and merge with UniFrance, the country’s publicly funded film promotional arm, creating an integrated audiovisual promotional body of unparalleled scope within the European industry.

Following its general assembly on Wednesday, June 23 — where members unanimously voted to approve the suggested merger — TV France International will cease independent activity and absorb into UniFrance, which will now handle film and television exports from under the same roof.

Assuming an even greater position of influence, the newly integrated structure will create two new commissions: one for film and television producers and one for international sales. A separate division will handle short films as well.

Elections for these new member committees will continue throughout the day on Wednesday, while new chair-people will be named early next week.

“TV France International represents 27 years of history and work dedicated to supporting the export of audiovisual programs, of international travel, of contacts created, and of diverse strategies built step by step,” says Hervé Michel, president of TV France.

“This transformation marks a new era for our team, for our members and for French exporters in general, who will now have unprecedented dynamism and impact. But we do feel a little pang in our hearts as we close the door,” Michel adds.

“We are very proud of what we’ve accomplished,” says Sarah Hemar, managing director of TV France International. “[We] end our journey with a historic number of members, more than 160 member companies, and a record influx of producers united around this merger project. The future looks bright.”

Created in 1994, TV France International has run a Biarritz-based rendezvous for over 25 years. The upcoming online edition is slated for Sept. 6 – 8.

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