HALIFAX – DHX Media has unveiled a multi-platform network of popular kids content that also connects content owners with advertisers on platforms such as YouTube and Dailymotion.
An incubator project since 2012, Wild Brain Family International Limited (WildBrain) offers videos for kids from 2-10 years old, including Mattel's Bob the Builder (pictured), Fireman Sam, Little People and Polly Pocket; Iconix's Strawberry Shortcake; Turner's Lazy Town; 9Story's Daniel Tiger, Wild Kratts and Arthur; plus DHX's own Caillou, Rosie and Jim and Brum.
The company said Monday that WildBrain is a wholly owned subsidiary of DHX and is an additional revenue stream that complements its core distribution business. In March 2016, WildBrain saw revenue grow by 57% year-over-year, views increase 114%, and minutes of watch time rise by 84%, compared to March 2015. In that same period, the number of channels on the network has grown by 147%.
"We are very pleased to propel WildBrain out of its incubator phase as we continue to execute on our strategy of delivering content to kids on the platforms they prefer," said DHX Media CEO Dana Landry, in the news release. "As more and more kids move to consuming content on mobile devices, we believe WildBrain represents a significant growth opportunity for DHX. Content owners are looking for ways to reach these audiences through networks that span across multiple online video platforms such as YouTube and others. The WildBrain network allows us to leverage the expertise and scale we have gained in monetizing our own library on such platforms, to team up with others and help them achieve their goals."
"Platforms such as YouTube are where we are increasingly seeing the new generation of children consume content”, added managing director John Robson. “YouTube is the leading global video platform, and kids' content is its fastest growing category. At WildBrain, we believe we are the leading experts specializing in delivering content to that audience. Not only are we able to successfully match content with advertisers, but we are also well positioned to create new, original videos to help brand owners extend and further monetize their presence online."
