FRAPA - The Format Recognitation and Protection Association

In April 2000, industry figures from across the globe met in Cannes to debate the creation of an international industry body to combat television format piracy.  The group agreed that action was necessary and endorsed the idea of FRAPA, the Format Recognition and Protection Association.  It’s aims were succinctly stated:  “FRAPA aims to ensure that television formats are respected by the industry and protected by law as intellectual property”.

FRAPA is the international format industry association dedicated to the protection of formats.

FRAPA mediates disputes arising out of claims of format plagiarism.

FRAPA consists of more than 100 companies from within the television and broadcasting industries.  Its members include format creators, producers, distributors and broadcasters.

FRAPA is set up as an independent non-profit association.  Annual membership fees are relative to a company’s annual turnover.  A member may be ejected, if such member repeatedly fails to abide by its undertakings to the rules of the association.  The power is with the members' meeting.  The members' meeting elects the Management Board and the Steering Committee.

FRAPA’s Steering Committee consists of:

Ute Biernat (Chairman)
CEO Grundy Light Entertainment
Grundy Light Entertainment

Michel Rodrigue (Deputy)
CEO & President
Distraction Formats

David Lyle
COO & General Manager
Fox Reality Channel

Robert Chua
CEO
Robert Chua Production House Company
The Interactive Channel Co Ltd

Paul Gilbert
VP International Program Development & Format Sales
Sony Pictures Television International

Chris Grant
Reveille Productions

Virginia Mouseler
CEO
The WIT

Alison Rayson
CEO
Target Entertainment

Please feel free to contact FRAPA to see how we can help you and your business.