Bell Media acquires majority stake of Sphere Abacus

Bell Media has bolstered its existing partnership with Montreal-based Sphere Media by acquiring a majority stake in leading global content distributor Sphere Abacus, through parent company Sphere Media International. The acquisition serves as a launchpad for Bell Media’s content distribution expansion, combining the strength of the two companies to accelerate growth and capitalize on new opportunities. Through Sphere Abacus, Bell Media is set to enhance the reach of Canadian content and creators with international audiences. As part of the acquisition, UK-based Sphere Abacus becomes the primary international distributor of Bell Media’s owned distribution rights, which enables Bell Media to participate more broadly in the creative value chain. Sphere Abacus continues to be led by Managing Director, Jonathan Ford. The transaction is set to close in the coming weeks.