MUMBAI: Endemol N.V. has increased its stake in Dutch company Nijenhuis en de Levita Holding B.V. (NL Film & TV) from 40 per cent to 51 per cent.

NL Film & TV is led by the creative duo Johan Nijenhuis and Alain de Levita, which focuses exclusively on scripted television drama, comedy and feature films.By increasing its stake in NL Film & TV, Endemol will be able to strengthen the cooperation between the two companies and make NL Film & TV a full member of the Endemol Group. The intensified relationship will allow NL Film & TV’s to further exploit its intellectual property in scripted programming internationally .

Since its establishment in 2001, NL Film & TV created and produced scripted TV series, such as Costa!, Zoop, Hartslag, Lieve Lust and Keyzer & De Boer Advocaten, for several Dutch broadcasters. In addition, it produced Dutch feature-film hits like Full Moon Party, Ellis in Glamourland and Zoop In Africa.

“We are excited to be part of the global network of Endemol which gives us the opportunity to further expand abroad,” said de Levita.

“A good format must first prove itself locally. When it has true potential, it can be understood and enjoyed by audiences all over the world. Our scripted series and feature films can already be seen in more than six countries. Endemol offers us a strong platform to further exploit our formats internationally,” added Nijenhuis.

Endemol chairman and CEO Joaquim Agut Bonsfills said, “Growth of scripted programming is one of Endemol’s key strategic priorities. Therefore, we are very pleased that Johan and Alain, two of the most talented and successful people in the Dutch scripted TV entertainment industry over the past few years, and their team are keen to intensify cooperation.”

NL Film & TV’s turnover in 2005 was approximately EUR 15 million. The company currently employs a staff of 10. Endemol has an option to further increase its stake in the future.