Base79 gets backing from Hollywood mogul Peter Chernin

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Base79, one of Europe’s leading online video companies and the largest YouTube network in the EMEA region, has received a strategic equity investment from The Chernin Group, the company set up by former News Corp president Peter Chernin. Proceeds will be used to accelerate Base79’s expansion across Europe and into other global territories, to build owned-and-operated brands and channels, and to invest in the Company’s products and technology.

Launched in 2007, Base79 partners with video rights holders and producers to build online audiences and brands, claim and protect their intellectual property, sell advertising, and generate new revenue streams on YouTube and other OTT platforms. With 300 partners, including BBC Worldwide, Endemol’s Tiger Aspect, IMG Media, Simon Cowell’s SyCo, Ministry of Sound and Guinness World Records, Base79 generates 550 million views per month across YouTube. It recently received four original programming grants from YouTube, more than any other company in Europe.

“We’re thrilled to receive this additional investment and recognition for our business from The Chernin Group,” said Ashley MacKenzie, founder and CEO of Base79. “TCG’s industry leading expertise and track record in content, digital media, brand building, international expansion and monetisation will be invaluable as we accelerate the Company’s international growth and distribution of premium video content across multiple platforms and devices. We have experienced extraordinary growth and believe this partnership will allow a new chapter of even greater opportunity.”

“Base79 has established itself as one of the clear leaders in online video, an exciting space that we believe is positioned to grow faster than any other area of media,” added Peter Chernin, founder & CEO of TCG. “Base79 is one of Europe’s fastest-growing young media companies, and we look forward to partnering with the Company to capitalise on further opportunities for growth.”

Alex Carloss, YouTube’s Global Head of Entertainment, said: "We view TCG’s investment in Base79 as a sign of the growth of the YouTube ecosystem in Europe. Base79's deep expertise in rights management and the YouTube platform will continue to help partners control and grow their content businesses on YouTube."

Base79 is also backed by MMC Ventures, whose managing partner Bruce Macfarlane said: “MMC Ventures has always believed in Base79 - its concept, technology, and team - and have been excited to invest from an early stage. We are therefore delighted to be continuing our support for Base79, alongside The Chernin Group.”