MAM
BBC’s agreement gives independent producers control over rights
MUMBAI: This is a deal that provides more stake to independent television producers in the UK. The BBC has signed new terms of trade for commissioning television programmes with them. The deal was signed between the BBC and Pact TV Policy Group which represents independent producers.
One of the key points of the agreement is that the independent producers will own all rights (including copyright) in the programmes they produce. The BBC will take a licence to use programming across its portfolio of channels for a period of five years and to exercise public service new media rights.
The independent producers will control all distribution, including international rights, format rights, commercial new media rights, videos and DVD rights and merchandising, subject to certain protections required to protect the BBC’s licence.
In India BBC World has a deal with Synergy for University Challenge. Miditech produces Wheels for them. Coming back to the UK the agreement applies to all independent television production deals retrospectively from 6 January 2004, for all the Beeb’s public service channels, regional channels in the UK.
BBC Director of Television Jana Bennett said, “The terms of trade herald a new era in our relationship with the independent sector. The agreement represents an historic transfer of value to independents and very much underlines the BBC’s commitment to fostering a robust and successful independent sector.
“BBC Television already benefits from many great independent programmes – we want to foster a more creative and open relationship with independent producers. We believe that the new agreement will support this and will, in the end, bring more original and high quality programmes to our audiences.”
Pact TV Policy Group chairman David Frank added, “This deal provides the framework for a huge improvement in the relationship between the BBC and the independent sector – one based on trust, mutual respect and fair reward on both sides.
“However to make it work we must all adhere to the spirit as well as the letter of the new agreement. “This is not a victory for the independent sector. It is a victory for UK audiences who will get the benefit of programmes being developed and made by a stronger, more vibrant production community capable of taking bigger creative risks than ever before.”
Brands
Charlotte Tilbury opens first flagship store in India
Luxury beauty brand bets on immersive retail as India expansion gathers pace
NEW DELHI: Charlotte Tilbury has opened its first flagship Beauty Wonderland in India, planting a high-glamour marker in New Delhi as global beauty brands double down on the country’s fast-growing premium market.
Located at Nexus Select Citywalk in Saket, the store is operated end-to-end by Nykaa, deepening a partnership that began with the brand’s digital launch in India in 2020 and has since scaled across retail, marketing and distribution. The opening signals a shift from marketplace presence to standalone brand environments as companies chase long-term equity and consumer loyalty.
The launch was marked by an event on April 9 featuring actor Sobhita Dhulipala, the brand’s first beauty muse in India, underscoring Charlotte Tilbury’s growing cultural push in the market.
“Darlings, I am so excited to open my first-ever flagship Beauty Wonderland in India, in its vibrant and iconic capital, New Delhi,” said Charlotte Tilbury. “This is such a magical milestone for the brand as we continue to grow in one of the world’s most dynamic and exciting beauty markets.”
Tilbury highlighted the brand’s connection with Indian consumers. “India has always been a place of incredible beauty, celebration and transformation. I have been so inspired by the artistry, creativity and passion of our community here. They are true beauty connoisseurs that appreciate next-generation formulas,” she said.
The store is designed as an immersive retail experience, blending the brand’s Art Deco and old Hollywood aesthetic with local cues. A bespoke Royal Indian Arch anchors the space, alongside personalised makeup services tailored to Indian trends and occasions. A dedicated bridal looks wall nods to the country’s strong wedding-led beauty market, while interactive elements such as the Pillow Talk photowall and in-store masterclasses aim to drive engagement.
For the first time in India, the full Charlotte Tilbury portfolio is available under one roof, spanning makeup, skincare and fragrance, including the Fragrance Collection of Emotions and bestsellers such as Magic Cream, Airbrush Flawless Blur Concealer and Pillow Talk products.
Nykaa, which operates 57 doors for the brand alongside its app and website, will now lead end-to-end management of Charlotte Tilbury’s exclusive boutiques in India, covering retail operations, staffing, supply chain, marketing and omnichannel integration.
“Charlotte Tilbury has been one of our most successful and strategic global partnerships,” said Anchit Nayar, executive director and chief executive officer, Nykaa Beauty. “The launch of the first exclusive boutique, fully operated by Nykaa, is a natural next step and reflects our shared long-term commitment to building the brand in India.”
Nykaa’s broader beauty playbook, built on digital-first entry followed by omnichannel scale, now reaches over 42 million consumers and has become a template for global brands entering India. The retailer currently serves 52 million customers through its platforms and runs 276 offline beauty destinations, reinforcing its position as a gateway for international labels.
Charlotte Tilbury, founded in 2013, now operates in over 50 markets with more than 3,000 employees and 500 products across categories, with over 3,000 distribution points globally.
A second standalone store is slated to open at Mall of India in Noida in May 2026, signalling an aggressive retail push.
In a market where beauty is fast turning from aspiration to everyday indulgence, Charlotte Tilbury is not just selling products. It is building theatre, and betting that Indian consumers are ready to buy into the spectacle.
