Markets

The 12th edition of Seriencamp returns to Cologne from June 9 to 11, 2026, positioning itself once again as a key meeting point for the European scripted industry at a time of significant transformation.Bringing together around 1,000 accredited professionals, the Seriencamp Conference will host a strong lineup of international broadcasters and commissioning editors, including representatives from ZDF, WDR, SWR, ARD Degeto, ORF, SRG, RAI, NRK, SVT, and DR. As in previous editions, all conference sessions will be held in English, reinforcing the event’s increasingly international scope.

This year’s edition takes place against a backdrop of ongoing disruption across the global television landscape. The post–Peak TV environment is characterized by consolidation among major players, shifting business models, and the growing influence of digital platforms. At the same time, rapid technological developments—particularly in artificial intelligence—are beginning to reshape both creative processes and production workflows.
The conference will address these dynamics through a program focused on co-productions, new distribution strategies, and the transformation of the value chain. Particular attention will be paid to the convergence between audiovisual content, gaming, and digital environments, as well as to the increasing importance of intellectual property, brands, and world-building.

Among the core elements of the conference are the pitching sessions at Story Exchange, alongside workshops and case studies designed to foster both networking and practical insights. The return of the widely attended “Meet the Commissioners” sessions will once again offer direct access to key decision-makers from across Europe, including public broadcasters from the Nordics, Central Europe, and Southern markets such as Italy’s RAI.

One of the main innovations of this year’s edition is the launch of Plot NXT, a new two-day event (June 11–12) developed in collaboration with Seriencamp. The initiative focuses on the practical application of artificial intelligence across the content production chain.
Rather than approaching AI from a purely theoretical perspective, Plot NXT will showcase concrete tools, workflows, and use cases, highlighting how technology is already being integrated into development, production, and post-production processes. Accredited Seriencamp participants will have free access to the event.

On June 8, the Story Vision Europe conference—organized by Film- und Medienstiftung NRW, Produktionsallianz, and Film- und Medienverband NRW—will set the stage with a focus on strategic industry insights. Additional initiatives, such as the ARD | Degeto Campus, further strengthen the presence of key German players and contribute to a more integrated industry dialogue.

The German TV Disruptor Award, presented by Deadline, will be awarded for the third time during the conference. Previous recipients include Annette Hess and Philipp Käßbohrer, both recognized for their contribution to innovation in German television storytelling.
ZDF Studios returns as the main partner of Seriencamp, underlining its commitment to addressing the structural challenges facing the sector. The ongoing transformation of the media market—driven by changing consumption habits and the growing influence of global digital players—continues to raise fundamental questions around financing, production, and distribution models.

Running alongside the industry-focused conference, the Seriencamp Festival will once again offer a curated selection of premieres and screenings aimed at both professionals and the general public.
Among the highlights of the 2026 edition is the world premiere of Westend Girl, a WDR/Arte co-production starring Golden Globe nominee Helena Zengel. The festival also marks the return of the Official Competition and Short Form sections, featuring a selection of international titles evaluated by a high-profile jury.

Accreditations for the conference are currently open, with early-bird rates available until April 22.