Gateley Holdings Regulatory News (GTLY)

For Immediate Release 1 October 2015

 Gateley advises Peppa Pig producers on landmark sale

A cross discipline team at national law firm, Gateley Plc has advised the award winning TV production company, Astley Baker Davies on the sale of a controlling stake in the global brand Peppa Pig.

Entertainment One (eOne) is increasing its ownership of the preschool franchise Peppa Pig. eOne has entered into an agreement with Peppa Pig co-owners Astley Baker Davies (ABD) to purchase a controlling stake in the global brand. As part of the deal, creators, directors and producers Mark Baker, Neville Astley and Phil Davies are producing an additional 52 magical episodes of Peppa Pig.

Since 2007, Peppa Pig has been co-owned and distributed globally by eOne. With the new episodes of Peppa Pig in production, eOne will look to maximise value through the centralised and holistic management of the brand's worldwide exploitation across all platforms.

eOne is a leading entertainment company specialising in the acquisition, production and distribution of film and television content. With offices throughout Europe, Asia, America and Africa, the company's film and television divisions are able to provide extensive expertise in many areas including television production, merchandising and licensing, and digital content.

ABD has produced over 200 episodes over six series of hit children's show Peppa Pig, which have been broadcast in over 180 territories. Peppa Pig is a top rated show on Nick Jr, and took home BAFTA's in 2005, 2011 and 2012, among its numerous accolades.

Gateley's Commerce, Technology & Media (CTM) team in London advised the selling shareholders on the deal, alongside its Tax and Corporate teams in London, Birmingham and Leeds. International law firm, Mayer Brown provided legal advice to the buyers.

CTM partner and head of Media & Entertainment, Lisa Logan led the team supported by Corporate partner Nick Emmerson and Tax partner James Gopsill, as well as CTM solicitors, Oyinade Adebiyi and Rebecca Pedrick and corporate solicitor Natalie Georgiou.

Founding director of Astley Baker Davies, Phil Davies commented: "We are immensely proud of the success the Peppa Pig series has had so far. With co-producer eOne taking a bigger stake it creates a promising future for Peppa Pig, allowing further expansion."

Lisa Logan added: "This is a major deal for Astley Baker Davies, as it opens the door for further growth. As long standing clients of the firm, we've been able to develop an understanding of their creative and business requirements, and concentrate on a solution that best meets their needs."

Gateley Plc recently made history when it became the first UK commercial law firm to float on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange.

-Ends-

Enquiries: