512120 - Motion Picture and Video Distribution

The entertainment industry is a dynamic and lucrative sector of the economy, with many moving parts working behind the scenes to bring content to audiences worldwide. One critical piece of this puzzle is NAICS Code 512120, which covers Motion Picture and Video Distribution. If you're a business involved in the distribution of films, videos, or related content, understanding this NAICS code is essential for government contracting, compliance, and industry analysis.

What is NAICS Code 512120?

NAICS Code 512120 stands for Motion Picture and Video Distribution. This industry classification encompasses establishments primarily engaged in distributing motion pictures and videos. These companies serve as the crucial link between content creators and the venues or platforms where audiences watch films and videos.

Key Aspects of NAICS Code 512120 Include:

• Distribution of motion pictures and videos to theaters, television networks, streaming platforms, and other outlets.
• Handling marketing and licensing efforts for films and videos intended for exhibition or broadcast.
• Managing commercial film libraries and animated cartoon distribution.

Sector: Information

NAICS 512120 falls within the Information sector, which includes industries involved in producing and distributing information and cultural products, as well as providing the means to transmit or distribute these products.

Typical Business Activities Under NAICS 512120

Some of the core activities and business types include:

• Film distribution companies
• Video content distributors
• Motion picture licensing agencies
• Film distribution agencies
• Television show syndicators
• Tape distribution for television

Size Standard for NAICS Code 512120

To qualify under this NAICS code for government contracting purposes, the size standard is $39 million dollars in average annual receipts. This benchmark helps determine eligibility for small business programs and government contracts.

Examples of Businesses within NAICS Code 512120

• Major film distribution companies that license and distribute theatrical releases.
• Video content distributors who handle the distribution of video content to television networks or online platforms.
• Motion picture licensing agencies that manage rights and licenses for exhibition or broadcast.
• Syndicators distributing television shows to various networks.

Detailed Code Breakdown

NAICS Code	Description
512120	Motion Picture and Video Distribution
	- Animated cartoon distribution
	- Film distribution agencies
	- Film distribution, motion picture and video
	- Film libraries, commercial distribution
	- Motion picture distribution exclusive of production
	- Motion picture film distributors
	- Motion picture film libraries, commercial distribution
	- Tape distribution for television
	- Television show syndicators

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What types of companies are classified under NAICS 512120?

Companies primarily engaged in distributing motion pictures, videos, and related content to theaters, television, and other outlets.

Does NAICS 512120 include production companies?

No, it specifically excludes motion picture production, focusing only on the distribution side.

What is the size standard for this industry?

The size standard is $39 million in average annual receipts.

Are streaming platforms included in this code?

While traditional distribution to theaters and television is specified, many modern distributors who handle digital licensing and content delivery also fall under this classification.

Why is NAICS 512120 important for government contracting?

Understanding and using the correct NAICS code is crucial for eligibility in government contracts, grants, and compliance with industry regulations.

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If you operate in the motion picture and video distribution space, NAICS Code 512120 is the classification that defines your industry niche. Knowing your NAICS code can open doors to government contracts, enable better market analysis, and help strategize growth opportunities in this competitive field.

Keywords: NAICS Code 512120, motion picture distribution, video distribution, film distribution agencies, television show syndicators, motion picture licensing agencies, size standard 39 million