[August 24, 2016]

ZMG Acquires Chicago-Based Content Incubator and Production Studio Ruckus Factory

ZMG (Zazoom Media Group) announced today that it has acquired Ruckus Factory Digital Studios, a Chicago-based content incubator and production studio specializing in comedy, lifestyle and documentary production. Ruckus Factory will join ZMG, a leading premium video creator and multi-platform content distributor, to expand ZMG's content capabilities through its expertise in both short-form and long-form content, documentary production and direct to consumer original programming.

"ZMG has made a name for itself through widely distributed quick turn topical content. As we look to grow and enter new content areas, it's imperative that we surround ourselves with creative talent. Ruckus Factory has proven experience in comedic writing and docu-style producing for both TV and digital platforms. Their talent roster features some of the up and coming names in the Chicago comedy scene and we couldn't be more thrilled to welcome them to the ZMG family," said Steve Charlier, ZMG President.

Ruckus Factory igital Studio (RFDS) works closely with brands and media companies to create video content that cuts through the noise and gets noticed, viewed and shared. In March, RFDS launched an "Artist in Residence" program to partner with up-and-coming comedians and writers in Chicago to develop and distribute shows, shorts and films. The first original RFDS production is "The Timmy Heidi Picture Show," an offbeat sketch comedy show starring Timmy Hart Barron and Heidi Cheek. A second comedy series, the "Standing Room" is a docu-comedy series profiling the top tier of the gritty and competitive Chicago comedy scene and what it takes to make it big. Also in production is "Why Would You Do That?" a topical comedy show hosted by rising star Dave Helem, exploring the headlines of the day through the lens of black America.

"ZMG and Ruckus Factory previously partnered to create unique video series that successfully targeted millennial audiences. The strategic fit between the companies impressed us and drove the logic of combining strength and strength to accelerate growth," said Tim Minton, ZMG CEO.

"The acquisition comes to Ruckus at a perfect time. Our studios are filled to the brim with talent and we cannot wait to partner with ZMG to find new homes for our shows and together create cutting edge, compelling content for both brands and media companies alike," said Justin Allen, RFDS Founder.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

About Ruckus Factory

Ruckus Factory Digital Studios (RFDS) is a Chicago-based creative content incubator and production house, specializing in comedy, lifestyle and documentary video content. The company was started to embrace high-end production, without sacrificing storytelling in the process. The result is an approach to creation that's a mix of data, innovation and gut.

About ZMG

ZMG (Zazoom Media Group) is a leading profitable premium video producer and multi-platform content distributor headquartered in New York City. Its brands are viewed over a billion times a year.

Started by experienced journalists, ZMG produces short-form programs that are compelling, edgy and brand safe. ZMG is a recognized leader in identifying and producing shareable stories of interest to millennial viewers. Its primary owned and operated brands, including Buzz60, Veuer and TPSY, are watched more than 55M times each month across Connected TV, mobile and desktop devices. ZMG journalists also create white label brands for large traditional media companies that seek ZMG's expertise at creating video for millennial audiences at scale.

For more information, please visit www.zazoomvideo.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160824005200/en/

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