Buyers & Sellers Set to Meet in Le Havre as Unifrance’s TV Market Turns 30

France’s major TV event is getting a new venue. The market, where French TV distributors present their top content to international buyers, has previously been held in St. Tropez and Biarritz. For its thirtieth edition, it is moving to Le Havre, a port city in Normandy, Northern France.

Traditionally held before MIPCOM, the market allows buyers to preview the best upcoming French content in a casual setting, complete with social events and a Gala Screening. This time, the Gala slot features “Ca c’est Paris” and there’s another evening showcasing France Télévisions and Paramount+’s expected action-comedy “Zorro.” Noé Debré, the series writer, will be honored with Deadline’s inaugural French TV Disruptor Award at the Le Havre event.

The event also unveils the latest export figures for French programming, illustrating how French content is being received globally.

Overseen by Unifrance since it combined with TV France International in 2021, the TV Rendez-Vous now spans both film and TV. As attendees prepare to head to Le Havre, Unifrance Executive Director Daniela Elstner shares insights into what to expect.

Elstner notes that while there are many TV markets, the unique aspect of the Le Havre Rendez-Vous lies in its organization. Buyers watch programs onsite and discuss them over lunch, adding an informal, yet valuable element of ongoing conversation about the content. The interaction between buyers and others in the industry is something Elstner regards as unique to this market.

According to Elstner, the shift in how buyers screen content has evolved significantly, especially post-Covid. Although screening links and private screening rooms are now standard, they can be overwhelming. Watching content at the office often means distractions with messages and emails. The Rendez-Vous, however, offers a different, focused environment.

Regarding the move to Le Havre, Elstner cites budget reasons and the high cost of Biarritz in September. Le Havre provides a city atmosphere that’s convenient, has ample space, hotel availability, and supportive city officials. The Mayor of Le Havre, Édouard Philippe, and his team are enthusiastic about hosting the event and will attend the opening.

Le Havre’s modern vibe and proactive local government played a significant role in the decision-making process. While there were other options, the Board ultimately chose Le Havre.

The timing of the Le Havre Rendez-Vous is also strategic. Held in September, it perfectly sets the stage for the last part of the year. Though deals may not close immediately at this event, they are often concluded at MIPCOM. Buyers have the advantage of previewing diverse French content, including animation, fiction, and documentaries, putting these new programs on their radar.

Attendance numbers for the Le Havre edition remain steady, with significant participation from senior figures in Paris, thanks to the city’s convenient location. The proximity to CNC headquarters also means increased presence from CNC members and more coverage from the press.

Recent additions to the event include the Gala Screening and various nightly events at different locations, alongside the new Deadline prize for Noé Debré.

The merger of Unifrance with TV France International reflected changes brought about by global streaming platforms. As TV series began receiving similar promotion to films, and professionals moved between TV and cinema, it became clear that a single association was needed. Despite initial concerns, the merger has allowed the two aspects of the industry to operate both together and independently, maintaining their distinct support structures while benefiting from unified communication.

The Unifrance Rendez-Vous in Le Havre takes place September 2 through 6.