NEM Dubrovnik 2026 begins its third day today, with the halls of the Dubrovnik Palace Hotel filled with executives, back-to-back meetings, and a general sense of optimism. Schedules are packed and the business atmosphere remains very lively, while the program continues with panels, keynote speeches, screenings, showcases, and numerous networking opportunities.

The activity over the past few hours highlighted some of the key trends currently shaping the audiovisual industry in CEE: the strengthening of local content, the consolidation of hybrid distribution models, and the growing prominence of telecommunications operators within the audiovisual ecosystem.

One of the most resonant messages came during the keynote by Sam Barnett, CEO of CME, who emphasized that the main competitive advantage against global giants remains local content. The commitment to productions capable of reflecting specific cultural identities was also evident in the ITV Studios showcase and in the “Spain Upfront by Audiovisual from Spain” presentation, featuring Atresmedia, Mediterráneo, Movistar Plus International, RTVE, Secuoya Studios, and Ártico Distribution.

Another key topic was the future of television distribution. During the panel sponsored by SES, Marijana Vukašinović, Director of Strategy and Content Management at Telekom Srbija, defended the role of satellite within the media chain: “It is a transport technology and will continue to be an important partner”. Along the same lines, Jakub Brzeczkowski from the Eutelsat Group highlighted the evolution of this technology and its importance for audiovisual and telecommunications services.

Lucyna Koba from Nielsen Media in Poland provided a data-driven perspective: streaming accounts for 11% of big-screen consumption, while satellite TV maintains a 20% to 23% share, with linear TV still above 80%. The conclusion shared by several executives was clear: the future lies in the coexistence of satellite, IPTV, and OTT.

Telecommunications operators also played a central role. Representatives from Deutsche Telekom, Telemach, Telekom Slovenije, A1, and Yettel agreed that telcos have evolved from being mere distributors to becoming strategic players in content and user experience.

In terms of content, ITV Studios presented new formats for the region, while Paramount Global Content Distribution brought a selection of titles promoted by the LA Screenings to Dubrovnik, including "Eternally Yours" and "The F Word", which sparked interest among buyers and streaming platforms.

What are executives looking for? Natia Tchelidze from Teleimedi (Georgia), is interested in entertainment formats and feature films. From Poland, Karina Rompa (Media Hansa/Trovio AI) is seeking premium content across all genres, while Gosia Borkowska (Iris Advisors) is focusing on sports properties, especially tennis. Bill Wijdeveld from Canal+ is seeking deals with specialty channels to add to his platforms, and Kart Kunnapas from TV3 Group (Estonia) is looking for content targeting women, soap operas, reality shows featuring social experiments, and soft crime series.

With approximately 1000 accredited executives and sustained activity, NEM is entering its final stretch, maintaining a business climate that makes it one of the most important events on the European audiovisual calendar in June.

Francisco Ferreyra, from Dubrovnik

If you want to receive our Daily Reports, please send an email to newsletter@prensario.info with your email and contact details