Netflix is one of the most influential entertainment corporations in the world, recognized for revolutionizing how people consume content through its streaming platform.
With a massive global subscriber base, it has become a pioneer in original programming, consistently producing critically acclaimed movies and series.
Beyond streaming, Netflix operates within a carefully structured business model that includes its in-house subsidiaries aimed at maintaining its competitive edge in the digital entertainment sector.
Who Owns Netflix?
Netflix is a publicly traded company listed on the NASDAQ stock exchange under the ticker symbol “NFLX.” It has a diversified ownership structure with institutional investors owning most of its shares.
Firms like Vanguard Group, BlackRock, and Capital Research Global Investors are among its top shareholders. Additionally, Netflix’s executives and board members hold a portion of ownership, including co-founder Reed Hastings.
This widespread ownership ensures that Netflix maintains significant liquidity for growth and innovation.
Read more about who owns Netflix here along with details of major shareholders.
What Companies Does Netflix Own?
Netflix owns a small but impactful set of companies. These reflect its commitment to producing high-quality content and maintaining a robust technological infrastructure. Here are the companies currently owned by Netflix:
| Company/Brand | Acquisition Date | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Scanline VFX | March 2022 | Visual effects studio specializing in water and fire simulations, used in major productions like Stranger Things. |
| Animal Logic | 2022 | Animation and visual effects studio known for The Lego Movie and Happy Feet. |
| StoryBots | May 2019 | Educational franchise focused on teaching kids through fun, interactive music and storytelling. |
| Millarworld | August 2017 | Comic book company behind Kick-Ass and Kingsman, providing Netflix with exclusive superhero IP. |
| Night School Studio | September 2021 | Indie video game developer known for narrative-driven games like Oxenfree. |
| Boss Fight Entertainment | March 2022 | Mobile game developer specializing in casual and mid-core games. |
| Next Games | March 2022 | Finnish mobile game studio known for Stranger Things: Puzzle Tales and other licensed games. |
| The Roald Dahl Story Company | September 2021 | Manages rights to Roald Dahl’s literary works, aimed at creating a vast entertainment universe. |
| Spry Fox | October 2022 | Game developer focused on narrative-driven and casual gaming experiences. |
| Blue (AAA Game Studio) | 2022 (closed 2024) | AAA game studio aimed at creating high-quality, multi-platform original games. |
Scanline VFX
Scanline VFX is a visual effects studio headquartered in Munich, Germany, with offices in Los Angeles, Vancouver, Montreal, London, Seoul, and Stuttgart. Founded in 1989, the company is known for its groundbreaking water and fire simulation work and has contributed to major productions like Game of Thrones, Stranger Things, and The Batman.
Netflix acquired Scanline VFX in March 2022, making it a wholly owned subsidiary. The acquisition was part of Netflix’s effort to bring more of its production technology in-house, giving it direct access to high-end VFX capabilities.
Key Features
- Renowned for proprietary simulation software “Flowline.”
- Works on Netflix Originals and third-party productions.
- Enhances Netflix’s ability to deliver high-quality visual effects cost-effectively and on schedule.
Animal Logic
Animal Logic is a leading animation and visual effects studio based in Sydney, Australia, with additional offices in Vancouver and Los Angeles. The studio is best known for films like The Lego Movie, Happy Feet, and Peter Rabbit.
Netflix announced the acquisition of Animal Logic in July 2022. The deal, finalized later that year, made the studio a part of Netflix’s content production ecosystem.
Key Features
- Focuses on animated feature films and family-friendly content.
- Strengthens Netflix’s capacity to develop high-end animated features.
- Positioned to work closely with Netflix’s internal animation teams.
StoryBots
StoryBots is an educational media franchise aimed at young children. It includes TV series, books, videos, and digital content that teach kids about science, technology, math, and more through music and engaging storytelling.
Netflix acquired the StoryBots brand in May 2019. It was one of the first acquisitions specifically targeting children’s educational content.
Key Features
- Includes shows like Ask the StoryBots, which won multiple Emmy Awards.
- A strategic part of Netflix’s kid-friendly content catalog.
- Developed with educational experts to meet child development standards.
Millarworld
Millarworld is a comic book publishing company founded by Mark Millar, the writer behind hits like Kick-Ass, Kingsman, and Wanted. The company owns the intellectual property used in both comics and screen adaptations.
Netflix acquired Millarworld in August 2017, marking its first-ever corporate acquisition. This gave Netflix access to a portfolio of original superhero and fantasy content.
Key Features
- Serves as the basis for developing original films, series, and comic books.
- Offers Netflix-exclusive IP in a market dominated by Marvel and DC.
- Led to original titles like Jupiter’s Legacy and Super Crooks.
Night School Studio
Night School Studio is an indie video game developer known for narrative-driven games such as Oxenfree and Afterparty. The studio blends supernatural storytelling with strong dialogue and atmospheric design.
Netflix acquired Night School Studio in September 2021, marking its entry into the gaming industry. The studio continues to operate independently while developing titles under the Netflix Games banner.
Key Features
- Focuses on narrative-rich, player-driven experiences.
- Contributes to Netflix’s strategy to integrate interactive content and mobile gaming.
- Helped launch Netflix’s mobile game offerings on its streaming app.
Boss Fight Entertainment
Boss Fight Entertainment is a Texas-based mobile game developer known for strategy and role-playing games. It was founded in 2013 by former developers of Age of Empires and Halo Wars.
Netflix acquired Boss Fight in March 2022 as part of its broader push into mobile gaming. The studio works under the Netflix Games umbrella.
Key Features
- Develops casual and mid-core mobile games.
- Enhances Netflix’s ability to scale its gaming portfolio.
- Focuses on games tied to Netflix Originals.
Next Games
Next Games is a Finnish mobile game developer, best known for The Walking Dead: No Man’s Land and Stranger Things: Puzzle Tales. The company specializes in licensed games tied to popular franchises.
Netflix completed its acquisition of Next Games in March 2022 for approximately €65 million. It became a fully owned subsidiary integrated into Netflix’s mobile game initiative.
Key Features
- Strengthens Netflix’s global gaming operations.
- Focus on licensed mobile games and Netflix IP.
- Works closely with Netflix to develop branded game experiences.
The Roald Dahl Story Company
The Roald Dahl Story Company manages the literary works of the late British author Roald Dahl, whose books have sold over 250 million copies worldwide. The company oversees the rights to Dahl’s extensive catalog, including classics like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Matilda.
Netflix acquired the company in September 2021, aiming to develop a unique universe across animated and live-action films, TV, publishing, games, immersive experiences, live theatre, consumer products, and more.
Key Features
- Exclusive rights to Roald Dahl’s literary works.
- Plans to create a comprehensive entertainment universe based on Dahl’s stories.
- Integration of Dahl’s works into Netflix’s broader content strategy.
Spry Fox
Spry Fox is a Washington-based entertainment company known for developing and publishing online and downloadable video games. The studio is recognized for its innovative approach to game design and storytelling.
Netflix acquired Spry Fox in October 2022, marking a significant expansion of its gaming division.
Key Features
- Develops narrative-driven and casual games.
- Focuses on creating engaging and accessible gaming experiences.
- Enhances Netflix’s portfolio with unique gaming titles.
Blue (Formerly Netflix’s AAA Game Studio)
Blue was a AAA game studio established by Netflix in 2022, led by former Overwatch executive producer Chacko Sonny. The studio aimed to develop a multi-platform AAA game for an original IP.
Blue was a fully owned subsidiary of Netflix, operating under its gaming division.
Key Features
- Intended to create high-quality, original gaming content.
- Focused on developing a multi-platform AAA game.
- The studio was closed in October 2024 before releasing any titles.
When Was Netflix Founded?
Netflix was founded on August 29, 1997, by Reed Hastings and Marc Randolph in Scotts Valley, California.
The company initially operated as a DVD rental-by-mail service. Its breakthrough came in 2007 with the launch of video streaming services, shifting its focus entirely toward digital content distribution.
Over the years, Netflix transitioned into producing original content, starting with House of Cards in 2013, cementing its status as an entertainment leader.
Who is the CEO of Netflix?
Netflix is co-led by Ted Sarandos and Greg Peters, who both serve as co-CEOs. Ted Sarandos, originally Netflix’s Chief Content Officer, played a pivotal role in overseeing its expansion into original programming.
Greg Peters has an extensive background in product management and international growth, which allowed Netflix to strengthen its global footprint. Together, their leadership focuses on innovation in content and user experience.
Where is the Headquarters of Netflix?
Netflix’s headquarters is located in Los Gatos, California, a hub for tech and entertainment collaboration.
Spread across several buildings, it houses executive offices, creative production facilities, and technological enterprises that manage the company’s massive streaming platform.
Its Los Angeles campus also plays a crucial role in managing partnerships with production studios.
What Is the Annual Revenue of Netflix?
Till Q3 2024, Netflix reported an annual revenue of approximately $31.6 billion.
This figure showcases its consistent growth driven by a strong subscriber base and diversified income streams, including memberships and merchandising.
While its revenue continues to climb, Netflix is also investing heavily in content creation to sustain its competitive advantage.
How Many Employees Does Netflix Have?
Netflix employs approximately 17,477 people globally, as of 2024. Its workforce includes diverse teams, such as engineers, content creatives, marketing professionals, and operational staff.
Known for its “freedom and responsibility” culture, Netflix empowers employees by fostering innovation and accountability at all levels.
Final Thoughts
Netflix is a pioneering force in the entertainment industry, transforming the way audiences consume content. With its ownership of subsidiaries like Millarworld and Scanline VFX, Netflix ensures the quality and originality of its offerings.
Its impressive financial and operational performance, alongside a dynamic workforce and strategic investments, positions Netflix as an indispensable player in global entertainment, redefining boundaries for streaming platforms.
FAQs
What was Netflix’s first acquisition?
Netflix’s first acquisition was Millarworld in 2017, a comic book company that marked its foray into owning original intellectual property.
Does Netflix own any gaming companies?
Yes, Netflix owns several gaming studios including Night School Studio, Boss Fight Entertainment, and Next Games, all acquired between 2021 and 2022.
Why did Netflix acquire animation and VFX studios?
To reduce dependency on third-party providers and gain creative control over the production process, especially for high-quality originals.
Is StoryBots still available on Netflix?
Yes, StoryBots remains a key part of Netflix’s children’s programming and continues to release new educational content.
Does Netflix own any animation studios?
Yes, Netflix owns Animal Logic, an animation and visual effects studio known for creating films like The Lego Movie and Happy Feet.
What types of games does Netflix offer now?
Netflix offers mobile games through acquisitions like Night School Studio, Boss Fight Entertainment, and Next Games, focusing on casual and narrative-driven experiences.
Did Netflix buy any mobile game companies?
Yes, Netflix acquired several mobile game companies, including Night School Studio, Boss Fight Entertainment, and Next Games, to enhance its gaming offerings on its platform.
Is Millarworld exclusive to Netflix?
Yes, Millarworld’s IPs are exclusively available for Netflix, allowing the company to adapt these comic books into films, TV shows, and digital content.
How did Netflix acquire Animal Logic?
Netflix acquired Animal Logic in 2022 to enhance its animation and VFX capabilities, specifically for producing animated feature films and series.