The world of European television is undergoing a dramatic transformation, and the key players are leaving no stone unturned in their quest for survival. The strategy? Get big or die trying. This mantra is driving a wave of mergers and acquisitions across the continent, as traditional broadcasters scramble to adapt to a rapidly changing media landscape.
At the forefront of this consolidation wave is RTL Group, Europe's largest television company. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, RTL Group CEO Clement Schwebig outlined his vision for the future of European TV, emphasizing the need for scale and a hybrid business model.
The Hybrid Future of European TV
Schwebig believes that the future of European media lies in a combination of free TV, pay TV, and streaming services. By leveraging the strengths of each platform, RTL aims to create an "unmatchable reach" and compete with global streaming giants like Netflix and Amazon.
"The future is not linear versus streaming," Schwebig asserts. "It's about exclusive, local content distributed across every platform where our audiences spend their time."
The Pivot to Streaming
RTL's first-half 2026 figures paint a clear picture of this strategic shift. The company's streaming division has seen remarkable growth, with revenue up 27.2% and a significant contribution to overall profitability.
"Streaming is no longer an investment story for us," Schwebig explains. "It's a profitability story. Our streaming businesses will contribute around €100 million to our operating profit this year."
Content Implications
The transition to streaming has significant implications for RTL's content strategy. The company aims to focus on producing local, exclusive content that resonates with audiences across all platforms.
"We have something unique: brands that connect emotionally with our local audiences," Schwebig says. "Our news and long-running dramas like Good Times, Bad Times are examples of this."
RTL also recognizes the importance of premium sports content in driving audience engagement and strengthening its linear TV channels.
The Role of Free-to-Air TV
Despite the pivot to streaming, Schwebig emphasizes the continued importance of free-to-air TV.
"Linear TV is and will remain the backbone for reaching mass audiences," he states.
RTL's acquisition of Sky Deutschland and the integration of its pay-TV operation into the RTL+ streaming service is a strategic move to enhance its reach and compete with global platforms.
Consolidation and Competition
The CEO's comments reflect a broader trend in the European media industry, where consolidation is seen as essential for competing with global technology and streaming giants.
"Market consolidation will happen in France sooner or later," Schwebig predicts. "Otherwise, the global players will dominate."
RTL's commitment to Groupe M6, one of the best-managed media companies in Europe, underscores its belief in the importance of local, exclusive content and the potential for further consolidation in the French media industry.
Fremantle's M&A Strategy
Fremantle, a subsidiary of RTL Group and one of the top independent production companies worldwide, has a clear M&A strategy focused on IP-driven acquisitions.
"We see limited scale returns for large mergers in content production," Schwebig explains. "Our strategy is to acquire small and medium-sized production companies that strengthen our position in attractive genres and geographies."
Fremantle's success with beloved IPs like Got Talent and Baywatch demonstrates its ability to create long-term monetization opportunities through distribution and local adaptations.
A Transforming TV Landscape
The European TV industry is at a crossroads, and the decisions made by companies like RTL Group will shape its future. The quest for scale and the hybrid model of free TV, pay TV, and streaming are bold strategies that reflect the industry's determination to adapt and thrive in a rapidly evolving media landscape.
As Schwebig puts it, "The future is about exclusive, local content distributed across every platform." It's a future where scale and local relevance will be key to competing with global giants.
