Entertainment One has another strong quarter

Peppa Pig franchise owner Entertainment One said it had another strong quarter with revenue and underlying EBITDA in the period continuing to track well ahead of the previous year.For the nine months to 31 December reported revenue was up 22% compared to the comparative period (14% at constant currency) boosted by good progress in the Film and Television businesses.Current trading is going well, it said, and the group expects to report results above current market consensus. Revenue in the Film business for the nine months to 31 December was 34% higher than the same period a year earlier. Television revenue for the same period was up 87% on the back of continued growth in the number of production half hours delivered and the ongoing success of the Family licensing business. Net debt at 31 December 2010 was below the level at 31 December 2009 and is expected to be in line with market consensus at 31 March.