MIPCOM’s boss, Lucy Smith, emphasizes that the event in Cannes has evolved beyond just a marketplace for TV programs. As the international TV industry shifts, attendees now seek valuable intellectual property, insights into branded entertainment, vertical drama, and AI. Smith acknowledges the tighter budgets impacting distribution deals and the need for MIPCOM to adapt to remain relevant.
With her leadership since 2006, MIPCOM has embraced co-production, FAST channels, and the creator economy, noticeably increasing the presence of digital platforms like YouTube. This year’s event will feature keynotes from Dhar Mann Studios and a new focus on the creator economy and AI, highlighting the necessity for partnerships within the rapidly changing media landscape.
Despite fewer attendees than past years, MIPCOM continues to attract around 10,000 industry professionals, offering crucial networking opportunities. While maintaining its origins in dealmaking, it now also encompasses broader creative discussions, aiming to connect traditional media with emerging creator-led studios.
