UK digital distribution group Arts Alliance Media (AAM) has agreed an exclusive strategic partnership with Japanese company Broadmedia, in order that the latter may launch digital conversion programme in Japan. The deal involves AAM licensing its proprietary cinema management system, including a Theatre Management System, Virtual Print Fee (VPF) reporting system and AAM's Network Operating Centre software. Deal also includes technology advice and sharing of the experiences learnt in Europe. Broadmedia is a content provider and delivery platform, focusing on broadband and mobile distribution. It is structured into two divisions: Content Services and Technology Services.
Additonally, Arts Alliance has provisionally secured a EUR50m ($68.6m) credit line from US group Sankaty Advisors, private managers of fixed income and credit instruments, and the credit affiliate of Bain Capital, an alternative asset management firm. Funds are targeted at AAM's European rollout of digital cinema.