Dublin’s award-winning animation studio Brown Bag Films has been acquired by 9 Story Media group for an undisclosed sum. The acquisition will result in 50 new jobs in the near future.
Founded in 1994, Brown Bag Films has worked with some of the world’s biggest entertainment names, including Disney, Nickelodeon, BBC, Chorion and Silvergate Media
Brown Bag is respected for its rich heritage in 3D animation, including four of the top 10 pre-school TV shows that entertain 100m kids around the world, while 9 Story Media Group is one of the largest 2D animation studios in North America with a global distribution footprint.
Brown Bag Films will retain its brand, with Cathal Gaffney, founder and CEO, Darragh O’Connell, founder and creative director, and the senior management team continuing to lead the company.
“This is a coming together of two great companies with a shared love of animation and storytelling that really resonates with kids,” Gaffney said.
”I am truly excited about this opportunity that we have worked so hard on and I look forward to continuing to produce the best animated content for children across the globe with 9 Story long into the future.
“Over the past 21 years, Brown Bag Films has constantly evolved its business model, always keeping quality at the forefront of everything we do. This new chapter is the next logical step for us in our ongoing evolution and will ensure that audiences around the world get to watch more of the great shows they have come to expect from Brown Bag Films.”
Global content creator 9 Story Media Group is behind brands such as Daniel Tiger’s Neighbourhood, Wild Kratts, Numb Chucks, Arthur and Peg + Cat.
9 Story represents more than 1,800 half hours of animated and live-action programming, seen on some of the biggest channels and media platforms around the world.
“This transformative transaction, which extends our footprint into Europe, broadens our content offering to distribution partners and audiences worldwide, combines best in class CGI and 2D, and optimally positions the company for tremendous growth,” said Vince Commisso, CEO of 9 Story Media Group.
“We look forward to having Cathal, Darragh and the Brown Bag team join the 9 Story family.”
50 new jobs for Brown Bag Films in Dublin
Brown Bag Films has bagged numerous awards in its 21-year history, including Oscar nominations for Give Up Yer Aul Sins (2002) and Granny O’Grimm’s Sleeping Beauty (2010); three Emmy Awards nominations for Peter Rabbit (2014), and a host of BAFTA, Emmy and Annie nominations for their hit shows Octonauts, Doc McStuffins and Henry Hugglemonster.
Brown Bag Films’ much-loved TV shows are viewed by millions of children worldwide and include Doc McStuffins, Henry Hugglemonster, Peter Rabbit, Olivia, Noddy in Toyland and Octonauts.
As part of the acquisition, Brown Bag Films plans to hire 50 staff to help the company reach new markets with its original content.
Looking for tech jobs in Ireland? Check out our Featured Employers section for information on companies hiring right now.
