France’s Gaumont Animation has signed a first-look deal with Studio 100 Media in Germany to co-produce a package of animated series and films for kids and families.

Their first project together is an animated series called Ash, which they’re co-producing with Germany’s Bigchild Entertainment. No additional details are currently available.

As part of the deal, Studio 100 will also distribute Gaumont’s shows worldwide, starting with animated series Tiny Head (52 x 11 minutes), which is currently in development. This co-pro from Gaumont and LA-based Cloudco Entertainment is for kids ages six to 11 and revolves around three pets from the city who get lost in the woods, where they make new friends while trying to return to their humans.

Last week, Gaumont promoted Terry Kalagian to president of animation for kids and family in a move to consolidate its animation business in France and better connect with European buyers and US companies expanding in the region. 

Studio 100 has shown a similar interest in European growth, hiring former WildBrain exec Richard Rowe and ex-WDR managing editor Manuela Lumb in March to identify and take advantage of new development and co-production opportunities in the region.

Pictured, from left to right: Gaumont Animation’s series Stillwater and Studio 100 Media’s movie Maya The Bee.