Boat Rocker Studios acquired majority stake in kids’ animation studio Industrial Brothers

Boat Rocker Studios has acquired a majority stake in Industrial Brothers, a recognized leader in the worldwide kids’ animation space. This investment marks a further commitment by Boat Rocker to the support and financing of Industrial Brothers’ robust development slate. It evidences Boat Rocker’s confidence in the opportunities ahead for the premium animation studio. This latest move follows closely on the news of Boat Rocker Studios’ return to operating as a privately held, independent studio.

Previously, Boat Rocker held a significant minority stake in Industrial Brothers, as well as having a first-look deal with the full-service animation studio, its co-production partner on "Dino Ranch" and its spinoff "Island Explorers," as well as "Remy & Boo" and "Daniel Spellbound," among other hit kids’ series. In connection with this new investment, the parties have also renewed their first-look co-production deal.

Industrial Brothers Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer Matthew Fernandes will continue to lead Industrial Brothers, with Chief Operating Officer Tammy Semen overseeing production and day-to-day operations. Matt, together with Boat Rocker Founders David Fortier and Ivan Schneeberg, will comprise the board of the company, working closely with Boat Rocker’s Jon Rutherford, President of Global Rights, Franchise & Content Strategy, and Rutherford’s senior management team on the company’s Kids & Family and Animation strategy.

“The need for original IP that meaningfully connects with kids and families around the globe is stronger than ever today, and we are committed to fulfilling that need through our enhanced partnership with Industrial Brothers and with Matt and Tammy, who share our vision for the future,” said Fortier and Schneeberg in a joint statement. “Our broader agreement with Industrial Brothers provides us with strategic strengths in a very competitive marketplace and will greatly maximize our opportunities ahead.”

“Industrial Brothers has developed into a powerful player in the animation business with a robust roster of globally successful original IP and I’m excited that our longstanding creative collaboration with Boat Rocker has evolved into a larger partnership,” said Fernandes, Chief Creative Officer. “Together, we will create even more standout content, which will further solidify Industrial Brothers’ position as a leading creator and producer of quality entertainment for kids and families everywhere.”