12/01/2026 - The network's initiative is set to provide a platform for distributors to collaborate and exchange innovative strategies crucial for advancing the promotion and distribution of European films

Europa Distribution presents its newest edition of the Film Distribution Innovation Hub, which will be held for the first time at the Trieste Film Festival, in the scope of When East Meets West. More than twenty independent distributors from across Europe will attend the event, actively participating in WEMW market activities from January 18-20. This initiative provides an exclusive platform for distributors to collaborate and exchange innovative strategies crucial for advancing the promotion and distribution of European films.

On Monday January 19, Europa Distribution members will participate in a public showcase where leading tech company representatives will display their latest digital innovation tools with a clear and potential application for independent film distributors. Olivier Fegan (Ireland) will introduce Usheru, an innovative company which helps film distributors connect more effectively with audiences through data-driven insights and audience intelligence, in order to optimize release strategies and improve commercial performance. Carlos Jiménez (Spain) will take part in the conversation to present Gretico, a digital cinema system that combats the cinema access gap in certain low-density territories and ensures that all people can enjoy current and high-quality cinema. CASSI, an AI-powered platform designed to help film professionals navigate the complexities of distribution and audience engagement on social media will be presented by Timor Kardum, co-founder of MAGIG (Germany). Mehdi Mimouni, Senior Account Executive at Molten Cloud (US), is working closely with European distributors, producers, and media companies to modernize operations through a unified platform for rights, royalties, and content management. The showcase will be moderated by analyst, journalist and consultant Michael Gubbins (UK).

The following day, Tuesday January 20, participants will engage in a closed workshop with the tech representatives for in-depth insights into the functional and practical specifications of these tools. Distributors will then be divided into working groups to facilitate discussions on how to implement these innovations in digital marketing, data analytics, rights management, and other aspects of distribution and publishing. This symbiotic environment will be a platform for participants to exchange their best practices and to provide direct feedback on tool refinement, to better meet distribution and specific territorial needs. Finally, the moderator, together with the distributors, will wrap up the workshop by identifying strengths and areas for improvement of the offered tools, and charting future steps for advancing the distribution industry.

Looking ahead in 2026, Europa Distribution is committed to hosting a series of workshops and events tailored for distributors and film industry professionals. The association’s upcoming engagements include the EFM panel that will take place on Sunday, February 15, titled "Das Leben Der Anderen: Understanding and Collaboration in the Film Sector". In March, ED will host their traditional workshop in scope of Cartoon Movie focused on animation, followed by the workshop in scope of CPH:DOX focused on documentary releases and organise their workshop on "Effective Communication in professional interactions, team management and negotiation in scope" of the Sofia Meetings, where there will be also a working session between distributors of the association and exhibitors of Europa Cinemas.