FRAMESTORE AND CFC UNITE

EUROPE’S leading film and television digital imaging and effects team have announced the ‘next generation Framestore CFC’ - a single new company, encompassing both Framestore and the Computer Film Company (CFC), structured to seize new opportunities in the film, television and commercials industry.
Framestore CFC brings together FrameStore, specialists in visual effects and computer animation for commercials, film, and broadcast television with CFC, renowned for its award winning digital film effects as well as pioneering development in digital film, under a single management team, led by joint chief executives Sharon Reed and William Sargent.
The new company, which has 240 staff, will come into effect from today. The senior management team remains unchanged, with roles that reflect the company’s continued focus on its three core business activities: Rachael Penfold is head of film projects, Fiona Walkinshaw heads up television projects and Jon Collins leads the commercials and facilities team. No redundancies are planned as part of the merger, and Framestore CFC has a major new corporate identity, designed by Spanish artist Javier Mariscal.
Commenting on the merger Sharon Reed, joint chief executive, Framestore CFC said: "We feel the industry is changing. It’s becoming genuinely international, with people and work travelling more. Digital convergence is a reality - TV is looking for higher definition, widescreen solutions, and film is increasingly digital. We have a huge amount of experience to share in both these areas and want to stay ahead of the game, leading from the front".
William Sargent, joint chief executive, Framestore CFC added: "Our current structure does nothing to emphasise our many similarities and strengths. Over the past four years Framestore and CFC have been growing closer and working on joint projects. Many of the most exciting pieces of new business we have won recently – including Harry Potter 2 and the new campaign for Levis – have been the result of joint pitches. The formation of Framestore CFC simply formalises this natural development and, most importantly, plays to our strengths".
(GB)