AMPTP

Guide Note

Formed in 1982 the AMPTP, (Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers), is the trade association that is the official collective bargaining representative for movie and TV industry. AMPTP is responsible for the negotiation of more than 80 industry-wide union collective bargaining agreements on behalf of the more than 350 member motion picture and television producers.

The Writers Guild of America (WGA) went on strike against AMPTP members in November 2007, the strike lasted 14 weeks and 2 days (100 days). A report prepared by UCLA’s Anderson School of Management estimated the economic loss to the city of Los Angeles at $380 million. A USA TODAY poll conducted in mid-December found that 60% of the American public sided with the writers, while only 14% supported the studios’position.

On January 11, 2008, during the WGA strike, the Directors Guild of America (DGA) started contract negotiations with AMPTP. The DGA and AMPTP reached an agreement on contract terms on January 17, 2008. This contract would establish the foundation that would allow resolution of the ongoing WGA strike a few weeks later.

SAG and the AMPTP started talks on a new contract on April 15, 2008; the current contract expires on June 30.

Fast Facts

1. Founded: 1982
2. Headquarters: 15503 Ventura Blvd, Encino, CA 91436 USA (map)
3. President: J. Nicholas Counter
4. Employees: 30
5. Revenue: 32.7 million (est. 2007)

Industry Facts:

1. More than $10 billion in residuals have been paid over the past ten years
2. The typical movie costs more than $100 million to produce, market and distribute in the U.S. market
3. 60% of movies made never recover the initial investment required to produce them
4. During the 2006 – 2007 TV season, of the top ten shows, six were non-scripted
5. Responsible for 1.3 million U.S. jobs
6. Generates $30.2 billion in annual wages
7. Pays more than $10 billion in federal & state taxes every year