TF1 sees revenue rise as digital activities compensate ad decline

French commercial broadcaster TF1 saw its revenues increase by 2.1%, to €2.34 billion last year and net profits increase by 21.5% to €154.8 million, with a decline in core advertising revenues being compensated by – notably – growth in its Unify unit, which houses digital and e-commerce activities.

Revenues from broadcast channels dipped slightly, with a decline in advertising revenues offset by ad revenues from the MYTF1 on-demand service and distribution revenues.

TF1’s production and entertainment unit experienced mixed fortunes. The studios and entertainment arm saw revenues fall by €18.6millionto €390 million, impacted by the deconsolidation of Téléshopping in Q2.

Newen Studios saw a strong performance in Q4 compared with previous quarters, while TF1 Entertainment’s music label PlayTwo’s sales compensated for a decline in DVD sales from TF1 Studio.

Digital unit Unify increased its revenues by €57.1 million to €173.1 million, thanks in part to acquisitions and a strong showing from e-commerce activities, offset by declines in ad revenue.