20/01/2004

The European Audiovisual Observatory has just published the fourth volume of its 2003 Yearbook, providing statistical data and analysis of the multimedia and new technologies markets in Europe. The volume, compiled in co-operation with Screen Digest, analyses the current state of the market in the specific sectors of interactive television services, electronic cinema and facilties companies, as well as looking at the interactive leisure market (video games and other entertainment software) and the internet.

The data published by the Observatory shows a large contrast between the rapid growth of markets and the deteriorating financial situation of European companies active in the various sectors. European film laboratories appear to be weathering the storm, with an increased operating revenue, rising from €445m to €506m in 2001. According to the analysis provided by the Observatory, this sector is profitable (with a net profit €12m), although it is noted that the profit margin dropped from 9.6% in 1999 to 4.2% in 2001, while the return on shareholders' funds fell from 38% in 1997 to 17% in 2001.

Volume 4 of the Observatory Yearbook also looks at the growth of interactive television services offered by the main European digital packages and provides an analysis of the sector, as well as a description of the pilot projects that are part of the European Union's MEDIA Plus programme.

The European Audiovisual Observatory is a European public service body and is made up of 35 member states and the European Community. The Observatory’s aim is to gather and diffuse information on the audiovisual industry in Europe. The 2003 Yearbook is made up of five separate volumes, each of which concentrates on a different aspect of the European audiovisual industry, providing professionals in the sector with a detailed analysis and an overview of the latest trends.

For more information see the 2003 Yearbook.