Helsinki and New York based production company Snapper Films is expanding by establishing a new distribution arm.

Snapper Films Distribution, which will distribute in Scandinavia, will be headed by Snapper founder Juha Wuolijoki and distribution veteran Sari Leinala, who previously worked at UIP, Warner and Scanbox Finland.

Snapper Films Distribution will look to buy all rights for Scandinavia growing to five to ten films per year with a mix of local-language productions and commercial English-language fare.

The company’s first release is family film Ella And Friends; with a sequel also planned to be out at the end of the year.

CEO Wuolijoki will be in Berlin scouting for acquisitions at the EFM.

As a production outfit, Snapper is best known for 2007 hit family film Christmas Story, which sold to more than 120 countries.

Wuolijoki said: “It is an exciting time to be in distribution in Scandinavia and with our solid team of experienced professionals we look forward to bringing quality local and international films to the Scandinavian territory.”