West Ham chairman invests in distributor Signature

According to Signature MD Marc Goldberg, the undisclosed level of investment will “allow for more tent-pole acquisitions and international expansion”.

The company is planning to launch more theatrical campaigns over the next 18 months, including both day-and-date and wide releases, and intends to produce its own content and form strategic alliances with foreign distributors.

Goldberg said: “David’s investment will help to bolster our already impressive slate for 2016 and beyond, and will allow us to reach our ambitious goals in the months and years ahead. David’s decision to invest in Signature only highlights our burgeoning reputation and will help to cement our place as the fastest growing, and most commercial UK film distributor.”

‘’I have known David for a number of years and more recently we have worked closely together on our forthcoming releases The Rise of the Krays/The Fall of the Krays.

“I believe with David’s business acumen and financial firepower it gives the team and I the opportunity to take Signature into a new era whilst still keeping the core entrepreneurial spirit flowing.”

Welsh businessman Sullivan, the former owner of newspapers The Daily Sport and Sunday Sport, added: “I admire what Marc and the Signature team have achieved in a very short space of time. From what I have seen, there is clearly a gap in the UK market for a company like Signature to thrive and grow.

“I am looking forward to giving Signature the resource and support to expand the business,” he continued.

“I will have a hands off role and allow the great team to continue running the company in the impressive manner that it already does.”

Signature’s recent successes include a number one home entertainment chart position for Legends of Oz: Dorothy’s Return, and premium VOD release Predestination.