The year in review Egmont Kids Media
Frank Knau, Executive Vice President Egmont Kids Media about the year 2009.
Which key words describe 2009?
I would characterise the year, as one dominated by the global financial crisis, fluctuating exchange rates, cautious consumer behaviour and a year, in which everyone worked very hard.
What was satisfactory in 2009?
We survived the storm, and generated a satisfactory profit, which we will channel into further development of the business.
Which were the highlights of 2009?
I have three highlights. Firstly, we made a profit despite a difficult year. Secondly, our colleagues in China and Turkey registered their best results ever. Thirdly, we can be satisfied with the success of the divisional merger, as a whole, (between the old Egmont International and Egmont Kids & Teens).
What was your greatest challenge?
We have had to carry out restructuring measures in Scandinavia and said goodbye to many colleagues, for whom I wish the very best.
Which changes do you expect in 2010?
The crisis will persist – but our various cross-divisional finance projects, our continued focus on profitable growth and our cost-consciousness means that we are well prepared. We are also building up our core digital business, and creating other outlines of innovation. The division has a wealth of innovative ideas, so we must be ready for more changes in 2010. I personally expect a lot from our finance projects, which focuses on taking better advantage of our corporate strength.
From which digital initiatives do you expect the most in 2010?
As I’ve already mentioned, digital operations are a key local and divisional priority. We still lack business models for children’s initiatives, so identifying them will be our next challenge. We will do this by testing various concepts, for example, learning and preschool edutainment on platforms in the UK, Norway and Poland.
I would characterise the year, as one dominated by the global financial crisis, fluctuating exchange rates, cautious consumer behaviour and a year, in which everyone worked very hard.
What was satisfactory in 2009?
We survived the storm, and generated a satisfactory profit, which we will channel into further development of the business.
Which were the highlights of 2009?
I have three highlights. Firstly, we made a profit despite a difficult year. Secondly, our colleagues in China and Turkey registered their best results ever. Thirdly, we can be satisfied with the success of the divisional merger, as a whole, (between the old Egmont International and Egmont Kids & Teens).
What was your greatest challenge?
We have had to carry out restructuring measures in Scandinavia and said goodbye to many colleagues, for whom I wish the very best.
Which changes do you expect in 2010?
The crisis will persist – but our various cross-divisional finance projects, our continued focus on profitable growth and our cost-consciousness means that we are well prepared. We are also building up our core digital business, and creating other outlines of innovation. The division has a wealth of innovative ideas, so we must be ready for more changes in 2010. I personally expect a lot from our finance projects, which focuses on taking better advantage of our corporate strength.
From which digital initiatives do you expect the most in 2010?
As I’ve already mentioned, digital operations are a key local and divisional priority. We still lack business models for children’s initiatives, so identifying them will be our next challenge. We will do this by testing various concepts, for example, learning and preschool edutainment on platforms in the UK, Norway and Poland.
March 2010
