Fox takes on Hit distribution

Deal beefs up major studio's children's DVD output

By Susanne Ault -- Video Business, 1/30/2006

JAN. 30 | 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment has inked a multi-year distribution deal with kiddie DVD supplier Hit Entertainment.

Starting in the fall, Fox will oversee marketing, sales and distribution of Hit’s catalog, including such properties as Bob the Builder, Barney, Angelina Ballerina and Thomas & Friends.

Financial specifics were not disclosed, but the pact is valued as a multi-million-dollar deal.

In aligning itself with Hit, Fox stands to significantly beef up its children’s DVD output. The studio has made inroads with such content as animated Strawberry Shortcake and such family DVD premieres as The Sandlot 2. But the studio is more widely known as a key distributor of theatrical and TV DVD releases.

“The Hit Entertainment portfolio contains some of the true jewels of the children’s home entertainment,” said Mike Dunn, Fox president worldwide. “This agreement will allow us to further our expertise in the kids’ category as well as build Hit’s business at retail to our mutual benefit.”

Fox also will distribute content for The Jim Henson Company, including Fraggle Rock and Animal Jam franchises. Hit manages Henson’s home entertainment, licensing and merchandising interests in the U.S.

“The entire Hit catalog as well as future releases will benefit greatly from Fox’s industry-leading distribution acumen and clout in the market,” Hit North America president Patricia Wyatt said. “This will allow Hit to dramatically expand its distribution and presence at retail thereby reaching even more families with young children.”