Media: TF1 and M6 enter exclusive negotiations in order to merge by the end of 2022

The French free-to-air television groups TF1 and M6 have entered exclusive negotiations with a view to providing a "French response to the challenges from global platforms" and the creation of "the French media group with the broadest TV, radio, digital, content production and technology offering," announced the two groups on 17/05/2021.

The final completion of the transaction is expected by the end of 2022. It is subject to the authorisation of the French Competition Authority (ADLC) and the Conseil Supérieur de l'Audiovisuel (CSA).

"At the day the operation is finalized, the management of the combined group would include members of the current management teams of Groupe M6 and Groupe TF1. Nicolas de Tavernost (chairman of the executive board at Groupe M6) will be proposed as chairman and CEO of the merged entity. Gilles Pélisson (chairman and CEO of the Groupe TF1) will be nominated as deputy CEO of Groupe Bouygues in charge of media and development," explained the two groups.

The French industrial group Bouygues (parent company of TF1) and the German audiovisual group RTL Group…