We present a new series featuring outstanding examples of Bertelsmann’s “Boost” strategy. The implementation is in full swing across the Group. Examples range from the accelerated expansion of RTL’s streaming services and Fremantle’s acquisitions of production companies to BMG’s purchases of iconic
music catalogs and Penguin Random House’s takeovers of smaller publishers; from the expansion and automation of distribution centers at Arvato to the acquisition of a controlling interest in the Brazilian education group Afya, the expansion of our global network of funds, and the establishment of Bertelsmann
Next with its focus on digital health, the app economy, and HR Tech.

“We Are Always Exploring New Genres And Formats“

In an interview, Ellen van den Berghe, Chief Marketing Officer of RTL Nederland, discusses the development and market environment of the group’s successful streaming platform Videoland as well as future projects.

Strong Growth Worldwide

Clothing, electronics, cosmetics, medicines and much more: people who order online have their purchases delivered via Arvato distribution centers in numerous countries. This is a business in which Bertelsmann has invested a lot of money – and will continue to do so.

“Acquisitions Have Been Part of Our Story Since the Beginning“

Scott Henderson, Director of Mergers & Acquisitions at Fremantle, on the company‘s acquisition strategy and how the RTL Group subsidiary manages to expand its portfolio and achieve additional growth through targeted acquisitions.

BMG in Investment Mode

Thanks to the Boost strategy, Bertelsmann‘s music subsidiary is investing more than ever in catalog acquisitions and artist signings. And in 2022, BMG experienced greater and faster growth than ever before.

Apps for the World

Hamburg-based Applike Group is one of the world‘s ten largest app platforms. Its business of marketing apps, building reach, mobile games development, and automation is to be strongly expanded with extensive Boost investments.

A Partner for Physicians

Afya is a leading provider of medical education and training in Brazil, as well as of digital solutions for medical professionals. Bertelsmann has increased its stake in Afya several times in recent years.

Creative Partnerships

The RTL Group subsidiary Fremantle has launched a number of joint projects with famous and successful filmmakers including Angelina Jolie and Edward Berger. In an interview, Christian Vesper talks about the importance of these partnerships for Fremantle.

Redefining Reading Culture

Since 2019, Penguin Random House US has been invested in Sourcebooks, a US publisher founded in 1987 by Dominique Raccah. Sourcebooks is using data to disrupt the traditional publishing business, turning casual readers into avid readers.