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Europe’s T.V. Business Model Gets Shaken Up by Streamers.

Nebojsa Vujinovic

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Amid U.S. streamers still driving local market growth, producers of T.V. in the continent of Europe are trying to decide with the Hollywood studio model of business -in which Netflix and other streaming services have all rights to their content in exchange for full-financing and a cost in exchange for a fee — as well as the current European model of co-productions, which leaves independent producers with backend and allow the indie producers more creative control.

But this is beginning to change.

Due to the E.U.’s Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMS), which is currently in different states of being implemented across Europe, There are signs that the most prominent platforms are gradually becoming more flexible about structured agreements. In any case, it’s what we hope to see in the future.

The directive states that streaming companies must provide 30% of European content to European subscribers. However, on top of it, E.U. nations are introducing national-specific laws that require streaming services to directly return a certain percentage of their earnings in every European country in which they operate. Certain countries like France and Italy are currently making law changes that force Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney Plus, and other streaming services to make local investments through independent producers. They will also ensure that the producers retain part of their rights.

“To begin with we welcome all of the opportunities by the streamers in every place in Europe,” claims Martin Moszkowicz, chairman of the government table of German influential Constantin Film. He explains that platforms like Netflix, Amazon Leading Movie, and Disney Plus “already are trading a fortune throughout Europe in local-language [content] and international English-language shows.”

A report released by Enders Analysis, a London-based company Enders Analysis says many Western makers “have come to prioritize streaming programs when begging their finest projects.” The report also noted that Netflix is considered the top producer of scripted European content in 2020ahead of the E.U.’s most significant public broadcasters. Disney currently has 60 European scripts waiting to be delivered in 2024.

However, while Moszkowicz is a fan of stream giants’ investment, his view is that their business model has become “ludicrous.”

“Number rights are retained; there is number upside,” he says. “There is nothing that we — and also the artists, the creative people that we employ — participate in the billions and billions of dollars of success that the streamers have.”

Moszkowicz states that German producers “will use AVMS as much as possible to get a bigger part of the pie” and believe that “ultimately we will succeed.”

Here’s a look at what’s happening in the conflict between the streaming giants and producers in the four most coveted continent European regions.

France

France in the E.U., where the government has recently approved the AVMS regulation, has set the way.

The new rules require that the streamers’ investments be put into agreements for independent productions where the rights return to French producers after 36 months.

This means that one-third of the money invested by the streamers will continue to be poured into agreements with French producers in flat-fee contracts, which do not permit the streamers to keep their rights.

Although it is a necessary regulation, the new rules raise questions about how these investment obligations will be used and who.

The rules allow competition between French producers for inclusion within the “two-thirds of the investment” corridor, according to French producer Alexandra Lebret. She is the director of the lobbying organization The European Makers Club.

“How may the streamers select that are the companies who will have a way to hold on to rights, and those that won’t?” she asks.

In March, Netflix made over EUR200 million ($220 million) in investment in France when it announced its 2024 lineup comprised of French originals, 10 of which are T.V. shows.

This includes “Standing-Up,” about France’s stand-up comedy scene. It was directed by “Call My Agent” creator Fanny Herrero.

Lebret notes that it isn’t yet understood what Netflix will select projects that can take advantage of the updated rules. He also mentions that Netflix’s most significant French production, “Lupin,” currently filming its third season, is being produced under a flat fee arrangement.

Germany

In Germany, which is the country where the Audiovisual Media Services Directive regulation is set to effect, there have been limited flexibilities by streamers when making deals for high-end productions.

“The more exciting the property, the greater your possibilities you will get through with this [structuring a package where rights return],” Moszkowicz explains. Moszkowicz.

One example of this is Constantin’s show “We Children From Bahnhof Zoo,” released via Amazon Prime Video in Germany.

It was also filmed in co-production with several partners, including the ITV-owned Cattleya in Italy and Fremantle managing international sales.

Constantin is currently putting together the premium television show “Smilla’s Sense of Snow,” which is based on Peter Hoeg’s Peter Hoeg thriller, for which Moszkowicz believes he’ll be able to put together an original co-prod that combines streaming partners as well as other kinds of broadcasters.

Moszkowicz emphasizes his belief that in pitching large-budget projects, the European government broadcasters and the pay-TV players offer an alternative that is viable to streamers.

In 2013 Constantin, along with veteran German TV executive Herbert Kloiber joined forces to create a company known as High-End Prods. to create event-driven programming specifically designed for Europe’s pay- and free-TV market.

Moszkowicz says that the sum of the sources of the pubcasters, including German’s ARD and ZDF and France’s TFI and the Italian RAI, as well as The BBC within the U.K., is far greater than the budgets of some of the streamers.

“It’s practically billions each year and they don’t get enough product, certainly since a lot of the really intriguing stuff gets ordered on a global foundation from the streamers,” the author says.

High End will soon be the first to announce its slate.

Spain

Even while AVMS isn’t yet fully implemented in Spain, there is a feeling that streamers have renounced their rights-of-all-rights rule.

“I think that at the beginning they tried to divide and conquer,” says director-producer Alvaro Longoria, who runs Spanish independent Morena Films.

However, other players are entering the market, including Disney, Apple, and Paramount.

“A lot of them realize that they have to be flexible if they want to get the best talent,” says the expert.

Longoria, whose Christmas-themed comedy film “Reyes vs. Santa” was acquired by Amazon in some countries and believed it significant to see the symbolism behind why Netflix has embraced “Parallel Mothers,” the most recent film by Pedro Almodovar — who was Cannes jury chair in 2017 was critical of the streaming company.

Netflix recently acquired the exclusive Latin American rights on “Parallel Mothers.”

“The whole business model is changing all the time and streamers are the first ones that are happy to adapt,” he says.

Italy

In Italy In Italy, in a country where AVMS deployment is amid a slowdown, there are some minor but essential signals that streamers are beginning to move.

“Some dynamics with the platforms are changing,” says Rosario Rinaldo, head of production company Cross Prods, owned by German’s Beta Film.

Cross is producing an edgy Amazon Italy Original drama, “Prisma,” for which it will be granted SVOD rights that will last for the rest of time

Rinaldo will be able to market “Prisma’s” free T.V. rights throughout the world, following the show exclusively shown on Amazon worldwide for a specified time.

“There is more attention toward producers’ needs during development,” Rosario claims. She cites the willingness of Netflix and Disney to collaborate on projects in conjunction with Cross.

The best instance of the Italian market for a significant U.S. player willing to work with Europe’s cooperative production strategy is HBO and RAI’s pubcaster “My Brilliant Friend,” the series based on Elena’s novels Ferrante.

In February, the 3rd installment in the show “Those Who Leave and Those Who Stay,” was aired on RAI with a record-breaking audience before it was released in the States with HBO and HBO Max.

“As a company, the look for forms of collaboration between numerous kinds of platforms and other broadcasters, including community broadcasters, is clearly element of what I’michael seeking,” says “My Brilliant Friend” company Lorenzo Mieli.{Recently|Lately}, Mieli, through his Fremantle-owned Apartment shingle, was capable of putting together the three-way co-prod between RAI, the Franco-German channel Arte, and Netflix.

They’re producing famous auteur Marco Bellocchio’s next T.V. show, “Eastern Notte,” about the assassination and kidnapping of the former Italian premier Aldo Moro by Red Brigades terrorists.

“The possibility of business models evolving — and disrupting monolithic models — is born from our ability as producers to propose projects that make this disruption worth it,” He states.

Hi, my name is Nebojša, and I've been involved in digital marketing for over 15 years. I've written for various websites, covering a wide range of topics. I'm particularly interested in subjects like technology, gaming, app development, and I also have a passion for automobiles. Additionally, I work on SEO optimization. In my free time, I enjoy reading, walking, traveling and spending time with my wife and daughter.

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How Interim CFOs Improve Financial Control

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In today’s rapidly shifting economic landscape, businesses often find themselves navigating uncharted waters. Financial control is more critical than ever, and for many organizations, the presence of an Interim Chief Financial Officer (CFO) can be a transformative catalyst.

These seasoned professionals bring a wealth of experience, ready to tackle the myriad challenges that arise when fiscal uncertainty looms large. An Interim CFO doesn’t just step in to fill a gap; they strategically reshape financial frameworks, implement robust controls, and establish rigorous reporting standards.

Whether it’s during times of transition, crisis management, or growth initiatives, their insights and expertise can mean the difference between stability and chaos. This article delves into the pivotal role Interim CFOs play in enhancing financial governance and ensuring that organizations emerge stronger from turbulent periods.

Assessing Financial Health

Source: bridgepointconsulting.com

Assessing financial health is a critical undertaking that interim CFOs approach with both rigor and insight. They dive deep into the numbers, examining everything from cash flow to profitability margins, understanding that each figure tells a story. This analysis goes beyond mere data; it weaves together trends, forecasts, and historical performance to create a comprehensive picture of the organization’s fiscal vitality.

Are there hidden costs lurking in operational expenses? Is revenue being maximized? These questions demand answers, and interim CFOs are adept at uncovering the nuances within financial statements. Their keen eye for detail allows them to identify both strengths and weaknesses within the financial framework, paving the way for strategic adjustments that can enhance both stability and growth.

In this dance of digits, agility is essential—because in the world of finance, timing can be everything.

Implementing Robust Financial Controls

Source: news24.com

Implementing robust financial controls is a critical step that interim CFOs take to fortify an organization\’s fiscal health. These controls serve as a safeguard, ensuring that financial processes are not only efficient but also transparent.

Picture a web of interconnected policies and procedures—document reviews, approval processes, and compliance checks—all woven together to minimize risk and prevent errors. An interim CFO often steps into a firm with fresh eyes, identifying gaps that may have eluded others for years.

They might introduce sophisticated auditing techniques while also streamlining simple tasks to foster a culture of accountability. By engaging teams in this process, they not only enhance accuracy but also empower staff to take ownership of their roles within the financial ecosystem.

In this intricate landscape, a strong framework of financial controls acts as both a compass and a shield, guiding decisions while protecting the organization from unforeseen pitfalls.

Enhancing Budgeting and Forecasting

Source: onboardingofficers.co.uk

Interim CFOs bring a fresh perspective to the often mundane world of budgeting and forecasting, transforming it into a dynamic tool for strategic insight. With their diverse experiences across industries, these financial leaders adeptly dissect existing budgets, uncoupling inefficient patterns and illuminating overlooked opportunities.

They introduce sophisticated modeling techniques that integrate historical data with real-time market trends, enabling organizations to anticipate shifts and respond with agility. Moreover, by fostering collaboration between departments, they craft a more inclusive budgeting process, one that aligns financial goals with operational realities.

The result? A robust financial roadmap that not only guides the present but also charts a course toward future growth, empowering businesses to navigate uncertainty with confidence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, interim CFOs play a pivotal role in enhancing financial control within organizations by bringing specialized expertise, fresh perspectives, and immediate operational efficiency. Their ability to swiftly assess financial systems, implement necessary changes, and provide strategic guidance allows companies, especially during transitional periods, to maintain stability and achieve their financial objectives.

Organizations looking to optimize their financial oversight should consider the strategic advantage of engaging interim CFOs to navigate complexities and foster growth. For more insights on leveraging financial expertise, visit www.fdcapital.co.uk to explore how interim solutions can elevate your businesss financial management.

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How to Cut Costs on Shipping to Amazon Warehouses – 2025 Update

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Costs on Shipping to Amazon Warehouses

Shipping products to Amazon FBA warehouses is a major expense for third-party sellers. Whether you’re shipping a single box via SPD (Small Parcel Delivery) or pallet loads through LTL/FTL (Less Than Truckload/Full Truckload), shipping costs can eat up 15% to 40% of your total margin if not carefully optimized.

In 2025, with higher fuel surcharges, regional delivery bottlenecks, and Amazon’s stricter FBA receiving policies, cutting shipping costs is no longer optional—it’s a necessity for profitability.

Checklist for Cutting Amazon FBA Shipping Costs

Action Benefit
Use Partnered Carriers Save 30–70% on SPD/LTL rates
Consolidate into LTL when possible Reduce per-unit cost and handling fees
Ship from prep centers near FCs Shorten the last-mile distance
Use standard box/pallet dimensions Avoid oversized penalties
Automate with FBA software tools Reduce labor cost, avoid prep errors

1. Choose the Right Shipping Method: SPD vs. LTL/FTL

Many sellers default to SPD because it’s familiar and easier to set up. But as your shipment volume grows, this method quickly becomes inefficient. If you’re sending multiple boxes regularly, switching to LTL or FTL can significantly lower your per-unit cost.

LTL is ideal for 1–4 pallets, while FTL becomes more economical once you’re shipping 20+ pallets. The larger and more frequent your shipments, the more you save through freight consolidation and pallet optimization.

Shipping Method Best For Typical Volume Cost Efficiency
SPD (Small Parcel) Low-volume shipments (<150 lbs per box) Under 10 boxes Low to Moderate
LTL (Less Than Truckload) Medium-volume shipments 1–4 pallets High for consolidated loads
FTL (Full Truckload) Large shipments to one FC 20+ pallets Very high if volume allows

Always run a side-by-side cost analysis between Amazon’s partnered LTL and SPD options for the same shipment. Even at lower volumes, LTL can beat SPD in cost-per-unit when handled correctly.

2. Optimize Box and Pallet Dimensions

Optimized box and pallet stacking system inside Amazon warehouses for space efficiency

Smartly stacked boxes and pallets in Amazon warehouses highlight how optimizing dimensions helps maximize space utilization

Dimensional weight pricing has become the standard for carriers, meaning your shipping bill depends as much on volume as on actual weight. Oversized packaging, under-filled boxes, or poorly stacked pallets all translate into wasted money.

Even minor changes to your box dimensions can cut down on shipping charges significantly. It’s especially important to standardize carton sizes across SKUs and ensure you’re getting the most efficient stackability when using LTL or FTL.

Packaging Type Cost Impact Optimization Tip
Oversized Boxes Higher per-unit cost + surcharges Split items into smaller boxes
Inconsistent Sizes Inefficient pallet use Use standard cartons
Poor Pallet Stacking May result in Amazon rejections Follow Amazon’s FBA pallet guidelines

A Freightos shipping case study found that by trimming box height by just 2 inches across 300 monthly units, one seller saved $420 in dimensional weight charges over 30 days.

3. Consolidate Shipments Strategically

Frequent small shipments often result in higher per-unit shipping costs, more carrier pickups, and a higher likelihood of fulfillment center delays. Consolidating multiple small shipments into a single, well-organized load saves on handling and often qualifies for better freight rates.

More importantly, Amazon prefers well-labeled, bulk deliveries over fragmented ones, which can
delay check-ins during peak seasons.

Scenario Estimated Monthly Shipping Cost With Consolidation
4 SPD shipments × 10 boxes $900 $540
1 LTL pallet shipment (same qty) $480

If you’re using a prep center or 3PL, schedule shipments biweekly or monthly instead of weekly. Many centers will hold goods for a few extra days to help you consolidate at no added cost.

4. Use a Prep Center Near Amazon FCs

Organized prep center near Amazon warehouses with boxes ready for dispatch

A prep center near Amazon warehouses ensures faster and more accurate processing of shipments ready for dispatch

Shipping across the country adds avoidable costs, especially if your inventory is already located closer to Amazon’s main fulfillment hubs, according to Dollan Prep Center. Working with a prep center within a short distance of Amazon’s major FCs helps you reduce last-mile freight charges, shorten delivery windows, and reduce potential delays during appointment scheduling.

This also increases the chances of faster check-ins and fewer rescheduling penalties.

Top FC Regions Benefits of Nearby Prep Centers
Dallas/Fort Worth, TX Central location, multiple nearby Amazon FCs
Hebron, KY Common FBA inbound point for East Coast sellers
Moreno Valley, CA Ideal for West Coast imports from Asia
Allentown, PA High Amazon FC density, fast East Coast distribution

Relocating your prep and storage from the West Coast to Kentucky or Ohio can reduce per-pallet shipping costs by 20–30%, especially for sellers distributing nationwide.

5. Leverage Amazon’s Partnered Carrier Program

Amazon offers discounted rates through its partnered carrier program, which includes both UPS for SPD shipments and several freight providers for LTL and FTL loads. These discounts are only available if you create shipments directly through Seller Central and use Amazon’s pre-approved carriers.

In most cases, Amazon’s partnered rates beat outside quotes, even those from negotiated commercial accounts.

Service Estimated Discount
Partnered SPD (UPS) 30%–50%
Partnered LTL (XPO, CEVA, etc.) 40%–70%

While you must comply with Amazon’s strict packaging and labeling requirements to access these rates, the savings are substantial, l—especially for high-volume sellers or those regularly shipping to distant FCs.

6. Reduce Rejected Shipments with Better Labeling and Packing

Stacked cardboard boxes in Amazon warehouses, illustrating efforts to reduce rejected shipments

Neatly stacked boxes in Amazon warehouses demonstrate strategies to reduce rejected shipments and improve delivery efficiency

FBA rejections are costly and often entirely avoidable. If your shipment arrives with incorrect labels, mixed SKUs, damaged boxes, or non-standard pallets, Amazon may either reject the shipment or charge you additional fees for correction.

These mistakes lead to delays, inventory miscounts, and wasted freight costs. Proper prep practices—including double-checking barcode placements and securely packing all cartons—go a long way in avoiding financial hits.

Mistake Possible Charge
Wrong label placement $0.20–$0.30 per unit
Unscannable barcode $0.15–$0.40 per unit
Rejected pallet Full reshipment cost

Based on Amazon seller reports, approximately 1 in 5 shipments that result in receiving delays are traced back to labeling or prep errors, ot transport problems.

7. Compare 3PL and Freight Forwarder Rates

Freight pricing varies widely depending on your route, volume, and carrier network. Many sellers overlook potential savings by sticking with default options like Amazon Partnered LTL when they could secure lower rates via third-party logistics (3PL) providers or freight brokers.

For international shipments, especially from Asia, consider FBA-friendly freight forwarders who understand Amazon labeling and delivery protocols.

Shipping Scenario Amazon Partnered Rate 3PL Broker Rate Savings Potential
3 pallets to California FC $620 $520 ~$100 (16%)
Full container from China $2,400 $1,800 ~$600 (25%)

Always confirm that your 3PL or freight broker can handle Amazon’s strict delivery appointments and ASN documentation. Mishandled deliveries can delay check-in by days or even weeks.

8. Use Software to Automate and Optimize Shipping

Managing logistics manually might work at a small scale, but as your operation grows, automation is critical. FBA-compatible software can help you generate labels, track freight costs, schedule restocks, and reduce prep errors.

Most tools also offer data dashboards that allow you to compare historical shipping costs and identify which products are the most expensive to move.

Tool Functionality
InventoryLab Shipment creation, cost tracking, and label printing
RestockPro Restocking suggestions and forecasting
ShipStation Multi-carrier shipping rate comparisons
Sellerboard Profit analysis, including logistics cost modeling

Automating shipment creation and integrating freight cost visibility into your inventory management can help reduce administrative time by 20–30% and prevent avoidable prep center errors.

9. Negotiate Better Terms with Your Prep or Freight Providers

Shipping costs are not always fixed. If you’re consistently sending volume to FBA, you have leverage. Many prep centers, LTL brokers, and freight forwarders offer volume discounts, flat fees per pallet, or reduced storage costs if you ask.

Review your past 3–6 months of shipping data, calculate your average pallet count, and initiate a negotiation with your vendors.

Tip: Sellers averaging 10+ pallets per month can often secure flat monthly pallet rates, discounted receiving, or free shrink-wrapping—terms that reduce your cost per unit long term.

10. Eliminate Dead Weight: Audit Unprofitable Shipments

Cardboard boxes on shelves in Amazon warehouses focused on eliminating dead weight in shipments

A focus on eliminating dead weight in Amazon warehouses leads to lighter, more cost-effective shipments

Not every product is worth shipping. It’s easy to fall into the trap of sending every piece of inventory to FBA, regardless of sales velocity or margin. Always review your SKU profitability before creating a shipment.

If a product yields less than $5 net profit after shipping and FBA fees, it may not be worth warehousing, especially if it ties up cash flow or increases long-term storage fees.

Sellers who regularly audit their shipping loads and purge underperforming inventory can reduce overall FBA shipping costs by 15–25%, according to Helium 10 seller data from Q4 2024.

Conclusion

Shipping costs are one of the easiest areas to improve once you understand the variables that impact pricing, from carton sizes to shipping method selection, from software automation to vendor negotiation.

In 2025, sellers who optimize these components can see thousands in annual savings and increase their margins without selling a single extra unit. Whether you’re operating at 500 units per month or 50,000, controlling your logistics pipeline will separate your business from competitors who let costs run unchecked.

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Post-Purchase Customer Experience – Why It’s the Key to Retention and Loyalty

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In today’s fiercely competitive marketplace, securing a sale is just the beginning of the customer journey, not the end. Post-purchase customer experience has emerged as a pivotal aspect of not only retaining clients but also building unwavering loyalty.

Once the transaction is completed, a new chapter unfolds—one that can either transform a one-time buyer into a lifelong advocate or reduce them to just another statistic in the sea of disengaged consumers. Every interaction a customer has after the purchase, from personalized follow-ups to seamless customer support, plays a crucial role in shaping their perception of your brand.

As the dust settles on their initial decision to buy, it’s the ongoing experiences that will ultimately determine whether they return for more or drift away into the clutches of competitors. Understanding and optimizing this journey is not merely an option anymore; it’s a necessity for businesses striving to cultivate lasting relationships in a world where choices abound.

The Path to Loyalty: How Post-Purchase Experience Shapes Customer Relationships

Source: reverselogix.com

The journey to fostering customer loyalty begins long after the initial purchase is made; it is intricately woven into the fabric of the post-purchase experience. Picture this: a customer who eagerly anticipates their delivery, receiving a thoughtful follow-up email that not only confirms shipment but also includes tips for maximizing the product’s use—this simple gesture cultivates a sense of connection.

Afterward, a timely survey asking for feedback demonstrates that their voice matters, transforming a transactional relationship into a dialogue. Each element, from personalized recommendations based on their purchase history to dedicated customer support, deepens trust and enhances the emotional bond.

In this ever-competitive landscape, understanding that retention hinges not on the initial sale, but on the entire journey afterwards, can unlock the secret to creating lifelong advocates for your brand.

Beyond the Sale: The Critical Role of Aftercare in Customer Retention

Source: globalresponse.com

In the whirlwind of commerce, where transactions often take center stage, one critical aspect frequently slips through the cracks: aftercare. This pivotal phase begins the moment a customer clicks “confirm” on their order, extending well beyond the point of sale.

It’s not merely a follow-up; it’s a commitment to nurturing the relationship, a chance to reinforce the connection established during their buying journey. Think of aftercare as the secret sauce of customer loyalty—personalized messages, helpful tips, and timely support can transform an ordinary experience into an extraordinary one.

Customers who feel valued and supported are more likely to return, not just for the products they cherish but for the community and service that accompany them. In a landscape flooded with choices, businesses that prioritize aftercare don’t just sell products; they cultivate loyalty, turning one-time buyers into lifelong advocates.

Conclusion

Source: youngurbanproject.com

In conclusion, the post-purchase customer experience is a critical pillar in fostering retention and loyalty among consumers. By understanding and enhancing this stage of the customer journey, businesses can build lasting relationships that go beyond a single transaction.

Effective post-purchase marketing not only reinforces the value of the initial purchase but also encourages repeat business through personalized communication and ongoing engagement. As companies strive to differentiate themselves in a competitive landscape, prioritizing the post-purchase experience will prove essential in transforming customers into brand advocates, ultimately driving sustainable growth and long-term success.

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