Spotify is to acquire Parcast podcast studio, a premier storytelling-driven podcast studio for an undisclosed sum. Since its founding in 2016, Parcast has launched 18 premium podcast series including Serial Killers, Unsolved Murders, Cults and Conspiracy Theories and the studio’s first fiction series, Mind’s Eye. Parcast will bring to Spotify its curated library of highly produced shows and an engaged and loyal audience. With an expertise in genres touching mystery, crime, science fiction, and history, Parcast has a track record of developing audiences with more than 20 new shows slated to launch later this year.
The acquisition of Parcast follows on from Spotify’s February 2019 expansion into podcasting with the purchase of Gimlet Media and Anchor. Spotify is positioning itself to become both the premier producer of podcasts and the leading platform for podcast creators and furthers its audio-first strategy outlined by Daniel Ek, Spotify co-founder and CEO.
“The addition of Parcast to our growing roster of podcast content will advance our goal of becoming the world’s leading audio platform,” said Dawn Ostroff, Spotify Chief Content Officer. “Crime and mystery podcasts are a top genre for our users and Parcast has had significant success creating hit series while building a loyal and growing fan base. We’re excited to welcome the Parcast team to Spotify and we look forward to supercharging their growth.”
“In three years, we have created a production house that has grown exponentially and hit a chord with mystery and true-crime fans, especially women, across all 50 states and around the world. We are proud to join the world’s most popular audio subscription streaming service and gain access to one of the largest audiences around the world,” said Max Cutler, Founder and President of Parcast. “Alongside Spotify, our ability to scale, grow and amplify the unique and tailored brand of content we create is full of fantastic possibilities.”
