Dove Audio Inc. Enters International Film Sales Market

Strategic Insights -

Beverly Hills-based Dove Audio Inc., a leading publisher of books on tape and hardcover books, has expanded its business into the international film sales arena. Dove International, a new division headed by veteran executive Jeff Schechtman, will debut at the Cannes Film Festival with its first film, "KLA$H," a music-driven thriller featuring performances by top acts in the Reggae and dance-hall music world. This move marks a significant shift for Dove Audio, which has experienced rapid growth in the book business over the past five years.

Key Takeaways:

  • Dove Audio Inc. has announced its entry into the international film sales market through its new division, Dove International.
  • Dove International will be headed by veteran executive Jeff Schechtman, who has held top executive positions in the domestic and international film arena.
  • The company will debut at the Cannes Film Festival with its first film, "KLA$H," a music-driven thriller featuring performances by top acts in the Reggae and dance-hall music world.
  • Dove International will act as international sales agents, representing films for international sales and distribution, and seeking to marry international distributors of motion pictures with filmmakers.
  • The company's goal is to provide a bridge for agents, producers, writers, and directors seeking new opportunities to get pictures made outside of the traditional studio infrastructure.
  • Dove Audio Inc. has a library of over 900 titles and produces and distributes more than 100 to 120 new titles per year.
  • The company plans to expand its scope of offerings, which range from best-selling fiction and non-fiction to movie tie-ins, classic humor, and a children's division, Dove Kids.
  • Dove Audio Inc. recently bought the rights to Prentice-Hall's audio catalog consisting of 18 business titles and entered into a global contract with Reader's Digest for direct marketing rights to Dove Audio's hardcover and softcover books.

Statistics:

  • Dove Audio Inc. has a library of over 900 titles.
  • The company produces and distributes more than 100 to 120 new titles per year.
  • Dove Audio Inc. recently bought the rights to Prentice-Hall's audio catalog consisting of 18 business titles.
  • The company's children's audio division has received six Grammy nominations.
  • Dove Audio Inc. completed an IPO in December 1994 and is traded on Nasdaq.

Sources:

  • PRNewswire press release, May 15, 1995.
  • Dove Audio Inc. profile.