Brunico Announces Closure of Realscreen Summit and NATPE Amid Industry Changes
Brunico Shuts Down Major TV Trade Shows Amid Ongoing Industry Consolidation
Brunico, the owner of the two-decade-old TV trade shows Realscreen Summit and NATPE, announced the discontinuation of these key industry events, citing "ongoing industry consolidation" as the reason. This decision also includes the cancellation of the Kidscreen Summit, a prominent event in children’s entertainment.
In a formal statement, Brunico described the move as "difficult, but necessary," highlighting a withdrawal from U.S.-based events. However, the company confirmed plans to proceed with the 47th annual Banff World Media Festival, scheduled for June in the mountains of Western Canada.
The announcement follows a significant shift in the media landscape, with the global TV trade publication World Screen also ceasing publication after 40 years. President and Publisher Ricardo Guise shared this news with readers in a brief farewell note.
Similarly, two other well-established media brands, Broadcasting & Cable and Multichannel News, shut down in 2024, marking a notable decline in long-standing television industry coverage.
In 2023, Brunico acquired NATPE out of bankruptcy, reviving the event in Miami for 2024. The following year, NATPE was paired with Realscreen to streamline operations and reduce costs for producers and attendees. However, NATPE has struggled with its relevance, particularly due to the shrinking syndication business, which has diminished since NBCUniversal’s exit from that sector.
Realscreen has faced challenges as well, grappling with the decline of unscripted programming and the shifting dynamics of the pay-TV landscape. Major streaming platforms like Netflix have consolidated their market presence, providing less incentive for investment in events like Realscreen.
Brunico CEO Russell Goldstein emphasized that the decision to discontinue the trade shows was made after careful consideration, reflecting the ongoing structural changes in the content production industry.
Following this withdrawal, Brunico plans to concentrate on its publishing brands, which include Realscreen, Kidscreen, Playback, and Strategy. Both Kidscreen and Realscreen will continue delivering daily news and analysis for their subscribers, along with annual awards recognizing excellence in talent and programming.
"The outlets are more vital than ever to the communities we serve," Goldstein stated, expressing optimism about pursuing new growth opportunities aligned with the company’s mission. Notably, Claire Macdonald, NATPE’s executive director, and Jocelyn Christie, publisher of Kidscreen, will be leaving Brunico to explore new opportunities, as acknowledged by Goldstein.
Mary Maddever, Brunico’s Chief Content Officer, expressed gratitude towards the company’s business partners and remarked on the firm’s commitment to adapt to market changes, stating, "Kidscreen and Realscreen will continue to provide a forum for thought leadership, benchmark best in class content, and deliver the dedicated daily intel needed to stay informed."
