Robust Online Tool Builds On Most Popular And Useful Elements Of Initial Version Launched Last Year
NEW YORK, NY, March 19, 2021 – AMC Networks today announced the launch of Upfront Connect 2.0, a powerful planning, creative content and information tool that builds on the functionality and success of the original Upfront Connect online resource, launched last spring as a comprehensive and highly functional online destination for agencies and advertising partners during the company’s first truly “remote” upfront.
Upfront Connect 2.0 is a rich, powerful and elegantly designed client-facing and internal tool that serves both advertising partners and internal staff. For external partners, it offers:
- A personalized client dashboard that serves as a one-stop resource for specific business needs including AMCN Original opportunities and Content Room creative offerings that can be customized by each client or populated by AMC sales staff.Information includes show descriptions, a programming calendar, comprehensive list of sponsorable opportunities, case studies and more.
- Screening Room, where clients can binge favorite AMC Networks shows like “The Walking Dead,” “Killing Eve” and “Better Call Saul,” and have exclusive first looks at upcoming original series, as well as must-watch episode lists curated by AMC Networks talent.
The internal tool, built into the same online resource and interface, allows ad sales staff to track client partnerships, submit RFPs and client order forms, built targeted and data-driven proposals and review and share opportunities externally.
“Upfront Connect started as a virtual quick-fix in a difficult situation last year as people shifted to remote work and has become a mainstay of how we do business with our clients today and will far into the future,” said Kim Kelleher, president of commercial revenue and partnerships for AMC Networks. “This powerful tool and resource quickly became a highly functional way for us to both inform, collaborate with and entertain our buying partners, in addition to being a valuable tool for our own employees. Our 2.0 version takes everything we learned last year and amplifies the most popular elements to deliver an entirely new experience we know will remain a cornerstone of our upfront conversations and service-oriented information exchange with our clients.”
The digital experience was built in partnership with Big Drop.
About AMC Networks
AMC Networks is a global entertainment company known for its popular and critically acclaimed content. Its portfolio of brands includes AMC, BBC AMERICA (operated through a joint venture with BBC Studios), IFC, SundanceTV, WE tv, IFC Films, and a number of fast-growing streaming services, including the AMC+ premium streaming bundle, Acorn TV, Shudder, Sundance Now and ALLBLK (formerly branded “UMC”). AMC Studios, the Company’s in-house studio, production and distribution operation, is behind award-winning owned series and franchises, including The Walking Dead, the highest-rated series in cable history. The Company also operates AMC Networks International, its international programming business, and Levity Entertainment Group, its production services and comedy venues business.