Michael Koch and Richard Lorber have announced they will launch Koch Lorber Films, a new US DVD label catering to world cinema, independent documentaries, music and the performing arts. The company is scheduled to kick off in the second quarter of the year. Koch, whose Koch Entertainment music distribution outfit will also handle distribution of the video line, will serve as chairman of the new venture with Lorber, who heads up Lorber Media and Fox Lorber Video, serving as president.

The company has announced an expected release schedule of 20-24 titles each year. The feature programming will combine previously unseen titles with theatrical classics, documentaries and independent titles, many of which will have music as a theme. Koch Lorber Films will take advantage of Koch Entertainment's music expertise and co-distribute CD audio products with some DVD releases. Also expected to roll out is a programme of music, performance and cultural arts from major producers around the globe.

"With its experienced sales and distribution team, strong specialty marketing arm and direct accounts that encompass virtually every wholesale and retail outlet, Koch Entertainment is the ideal partner for our new quality DVD label," Lorber said in a statement. "Fox Lorber (now Wellspring) was one of the best boutique video brands and we are confident that Richard, together with our expertise and resources, can build an even stronger new company in this still-expanding DVD market," Koch added in a separate statement.