(Continued From Cover) MIP Cancun Viewed From the North American Side By Doris Vogelmann* 22 I have been attending MIP Cancun for many years now, and for me — as a buyer — the market has proven to be close to perfection. With the turquoise beaches of Cancun as its backdrop, it uniquely blends business and pleasure. The atmosphere is vibrant yet relaxed, creating the perfect setting to focus on what we truly come for: discovering new content, strengthening relationships, and finding inspiration. Unlike other markets that can feel rushed or overly corporate, MIP Cancun strikes a rare balance between professionalism and human connection. The organizers understand that this industry thrives on relationships — on trust, dialogue, and the shared passion for storytelling. It’s not just about signing deals; it’s about conversations that spark creative collaborations and long-term partnerships. One of the event’s greatest advantages is its preset meeting format, which removes an entire layer of stress. Before you even arrive, your agenda is ready, allowing time to prepare properly and to focus on meaningful discussions rather than logistics. If there are still people you want to meet outside the scheduled sessions, it’s easy to reach out and find a coffee or lunch slot. This system has revolutionized the way we plan our meetings. At larger markets, schedules fill up so quickly with existing partners that there’s little room left for discovery. MIP Cancun’s matchmaking process gives both new and established companies equal visibility, opening the door to producers and distributors we might never have met otherwise. Each year, MIP Cancun also reflects the creative pulse of the industry. The content showcased mirrors global trends while highlighting the growing strength of local storytelling. What stands out today is the rising demand for locally produced stories with universal appeal, series that speak authentically to Latin American audiences while resonating internationally. The emphasis on co-production has never been stronger, encouraging collaborations that combine local creativity with international resources and reach. For a buyer, this means a broader, more distinctive selection of content, often with a stronger cultural identity and commercial potential. Beyond the meetings, MIP Cancun has evolved into an event that provides real insight. The seminars and conferences have improved greatly in recent years, offering solid takeaways instead of just general conversation. I find the sessions on audience behavior, streaming strategies, and the rise of local productions especially valuable. But what truly distinguishes MIP Cancun is how business and community co-exist so naturally. The opening-night cocktail, held under a glowing Caribbean sunset, always sets the tone: friendly, informal, and full of energy. The co-production networking lunch is another highlight, where introductions turn into genuine conversations and often into future collaborations. And the closing party perfectly captures the spirit of the market. Deals, ideas, and friendships are born in those relaxed moments when the formalities fade and people connect as equals. Over time, I’ve come to see that MIP Cancun’s greatest contribution to the television sector is its inclusivity. It has redefined how the Latin American content industry interacts —making it more open, diverse, and collaborative. For sellers, it’s a gateway to reach buyers from across the region in one place. For buyers, it democratizes access, giving emerging producers and boutique distributors the same platform as global players. This accessibility encourages innovation and raises the overall quality of programming available to audiences. The market has also become a catalyst for cross-border cooperation. Co-productions between Mexico, Colombia, Chile, and Spain have multiplied thanks to partnerships that began at MIP Cancun. Such alliances strengthen the region’s capacity to produce high-quality content capable of competing globally. Even in a digital era where many transactions happen online, MIP Cancun reminds us that face-toface interaction still matters. There’s an irreplaceable energy in sitting across from someone, seeing their enthusiasm, and realizing you share the same vision. That personal connection — combined with professional purpose — is what keeps me returning year after year. Each edition feels like a reunion with familiar faces and an introduction to new ones. There’s a genuine sense of camaraderie among attendees; we all share the same challenges and the same love for storytelling. Some of my most enduring partnerships began in a casual conversation over dinner or during a walk along the beach after a long day of meetings. For me, MIP Cancun is much more than a market; it’s a reminder of why I love this industry. It’s where business happens, yes, but also where creativity and optimism are renewed. Every year I leave with new shows, new partners, and new ideas, but also with a deeper appreciation for how thoughtfully this event is designed. It understands the rhythm of our work and respects the human side of what we do. As the television landscape continues to evolve — driven by streaming, technology, and ever-changing audience expectations — MIP Cancun stands out as a space that connects people, cultures, and opportunities. It brings together the producers, buyers, distributors, and thinkers who are shaping the future of entertainment in Latin America and beyond. It reminds us that while trends and platforms may shift, the heart of our industry remains the same: people telling stories and others eager to share them. For any professional serious about this region, MIP Cancun is not just a market to attend — it’s a market you simply can’t afford to miss. *Doris Vogelmann began her career in Lima, Peru, working on the production team of a children’s program, before continuing her work in Ecuador and Chile. She then joined the international division of Discovery Communications in Bethesda, Maryland, where she later helped in launching all of Discovery’s Latin American networks from its Miami offices. Since joining Vme in 2007, Vogelmann has been part of the programming strategy across all of the company’s networks — Vme, Vme Kids, and Primo. The market has become a catalyst for cross-border cooperation. VIDEOAGE November 2025 Buyer’s POV
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