CABLEready president and NATPE board member
With NATPE fast approaching, CABLEready’s Gary Lico talked to VideoAge about ROI, the move to Miami, and whether or not NATPE is still a vital market. However, where his company’s market slate was concerned, he remained, for the most part, secretive.
VideoAge International: Is Miami Beach a better venue for NATPE and why?
Gary Lico: It’s more than the weather; Miami is easier to get to for Europe; The Fountainbleau allows NATPE to be all under one, beautiful roof. And it clearly got everyone’s attention.
VAI: In your view, is NATPE still a vital market?
Gary Lico: I am on the NATPE board…so yes. But it’s more than a market, it’s a conference of opportunities and contacts. And I must say that Rick Feldman and the board have made it more than vital, but necessary in today’s content environment.
VAI: What new product/titles will you be bringing to NATPE?
Gary Lico: Who wants to tip the competition yet? But the biggest thing in the U.S. is Medical Detectives, the very first and most honored forensic investigation series. Over 200 episodes are available in the U.S.
VAI: Is your NATPE product targeted to Latins, or are you just taking your new releases?
Gary Lico: We think globally at all times and would likely never pick a series that didn’t have global appeal. We currently have over 300 Medical Detectives episodes available in Spanish for Latin America and the U.S. Hispanic market, as well as a series produced in Spanish (World Party).
VAI: In terms of ROI is NATPE effective?
Gary Lico: Any time you get everyone together, it’s effective. And NATPE is still one of the best values, pound-per-pound, than any other conference. Because they’re non-profit, they are very flexible and friendly to work with.
