AMC NETWORKS
AMC Networks is a global entertainment company that operates several of the most recognized brands in television, creating and presenting high quality content and compelling stories to audiences, and a valuable platform for distributors and advertisers. We have operated in the cable programming industry for more than 30 years, and, over this time, we have continually enhanced the value of our network portfolio. Our content spans multiple genres, including drama, comedy, documentary, reality, anthology, feature film and short form. Our programming networks are well known and well regarded by our key constituents—our viewers, distributors and advertisers—and have developed strong followings within their respective targeted demographics, increasing their value to distributors and advertisers.
In the United States (U.S.), our programming networks are AMC, WE tv, BBC AMERICA (operated through a joint venture with the commercial arm of the BBC, IFC and SundanceTV. Each of our programming networks has established itself within its respective markets. Our deep and established presence in the industry and the recognition we have received for our brands through industry awards and other honors lend us a high degree of credibility with distributors and content producers, and help provide us with stable affiliate and studio relationships, advantageous channel placements, heightened viewer engagement and demand for our owned programming for distribution on platforms other than our own. Our networks are also distributed through virtual multi-channel video programming distributors. We either own or license the content we distribute. Through our AMC Studios operation, we are increasing the amount of our owned original programming. Our ability to produce owned high quality content has provided us with the opportunity to distribute such content on platforms other than our domestic networks. Our owned and licensed content is distributed domestically and internationally and on multiple platforms, including linear television, digital services, home video and syndication.
Internationally, we deliver programming that reaches subscribers in more than 130 countries and territories around the world. The international division of the Company, AMC Networks International, consists of global brands, including AMC and SundanceTV, in the movie and entertainment programming genres, as well as popular, locally recognized channels in several other programming genres.
Additionally, our Global Direct to Consumer business consists of our subscription streaming services, Acorn TV, Shudder, Sundance NOW and UMC (Urban Movie Channel). These services are available in the United States and internationally. Acorn TV features high-quality British and international mysteries and dramas. Shudder is dedicated to films in the horror, suspense and thriller genres. Sundance Now features independent film, TV shows, documentaries and original series. UMC showcases quality urban programming including feature films, documentaries, original series, stand-up comedy and other exclusive content for African-American and urban audiences. We primarily license content for these services.
AMC Networks also operates IFC Films, a film distribution business that distributes independent narrative and documentary films under the IFC Films label as well as the Sundance Selects and IFC Midnight distribution labels. IFC Films is known for attracting high-profile talent and distributing films that regularly garner critical acclaim and industry honors, including numerous Oscar- Golden Globe-, and Cannes Film Festival-award winning titles.
During 2018, we acquired controlling interests in RLJ Entertainment, Inc., a content distribution company that also included the subscription streaming services Acorn TV and Urban Movie Channel; and Levity Entertainment Group LLC, a production services and comedy venues company.
We earn revenue principally from the distribution of our programming and the sale of advertising. Distribution revenues primarily include fees paid by distributors to carry our programming networks as well as revenue earned from the licensing of original programming for digital, international and home video distribution. In 2018, distribution revenues and advertising sales accounted for 65% and 35% of our consolidated revenues, net, respectively. For the year ended December 31, 2018, one customer in our National Networks segment, AT&T Inc., accounted for greater than 10% of our consolidated revenues, net.
-5-