On 1 January 2011, Bavaria Media GmbH, a subsidiary of Bavaria Film Holding, purchased 100% of the shares of united docs GmbH, headquartered in Cologne.
united docs has specialised in marketing high-quality documentaries for more than ten years, including such successful films and series as “The Kissinger File”, “The Cycle of Life”, “Stalingrad” and “Pioneers Turned Millionaires”. In addition to distributing documentaries produced by WDR, SWR, NDR, HR and Radio Bremen – all affiliates of the ARD association of broadcasters – the company’s catalogue also includes numerous productions by independent filmmakers.
Bavaria Media operates the BAVARIA FILM INTERNATIONAL and BAVARIA MEDIA TELEVISION labels and is one of Europe’s leading distributors of motion pictures and television fiction. From its headquarters and studios in Geiselgasteig, near Munich, the company licenses popular cinematic releases and television series the world over. Dr. Rolf Moser, managing director of Bavaria Media, sees the acquisition of united docs GmbH as an important step toward consolidating the company’s market position. “We have been actively marketing fiction productions around the world for many years and have established a good international reputation. Now we will apply the same professionalism and dedication to the international distribution of documentaries and wildlife productions. The catalogue and know-how of united docs give us an outstanding footing for international success, and we will continue to promote the united docs brand as part of the range of offerings from Bavaria Media.”
The long-standing head of sales of united docs, Bettina Oebel, will be leaving the firm in February to take on a new function with an independent production company. Anne Hufnagel will assume responsibility for the Cologne sales unit. She has been with united docs since 2004 in the position of sales manager, and most recently served as authorized signatory and head of co-productions. She will be assisted by sales managers Elina Kewitz and Hana Hadzikaric.
