BKN International, a children’s animated series production, distribution and marketing company, announced their acquisition of France-based Arles Animation. Arles has worked on series such as WACKY WORLD OF TEX AVERY, SABRINA and SONIC UNDERGROUND. Arles credits itself as being the only studio in France with experience in managing and executing a two-episode per week schedule. The French firm has created work for DIC, TF1, Canal +, RTL and La Cinquieme. Starting immediately, the new BKN arm will begin pre-production work on its newest productions KONG, KING OF ATLANTIS, a 72-minute TV movie, and the TV series KEYSTONE KOPS. The former CEO of Arles, Daniel Schwall, has been appointed as executive VP of BKN International. "The acquisition of Arles Animation is the first step of BKNI’s expansion strategy in the production side of the business," said Nadia Nardonnet, chairperson of the management board for BKN. "Arles perfectly fits the BKNI business model to produce any new series in less than twelve months, as well as enhance BKNI’s presence in the European market. Furthermore, Daniel Schwall will add significant impetus to one of the strongest production teams in the industry."