NBCU Taps Thomson for International Distribution

Thomson’s Technicolor Services division has completed a long-term agreement for Technicolor to provide NBC Universal with international broadcast distribution and media management services. Also, Technicolor has acquired NBC Universal’s broadcast distribution center in Denver.

Under the terms of the long term service agreement, Technicolor will manage the preparation and international distribution of a total of 31 NBC Universal channels, of which 19 will be managed from the Denver facility and the balance managed from existing Technicolor facilities in London, Paris and Singapore, with the expectation for significant growth tied to the global expansion of NBC Universal’s Global Networks.

In total, Technicolor will manage the preparation and distribution of 23 channels out of the Denver facility, the 19 Hallmark International channels owned by NBC Universal throughout Europe, Asia and Latin America, the two East and West coast channels of the Hallmark Channel in the Unites States owned and operated by Crown Media Holdings Inc., and the two Altitude Sports Network channels, a regional cable TV sports network operated by KSE Media Ventures LLC.

“We look forward to drawing on the combined expertise of Thomson and the experienced team in Denver,” said Ian Trombley, NBC Universal executive vice president for Media Distribution Services. “This expanded relationship will play a significant part in supporting NBC Universal Global Networks’ international growth plans for programming and channels.”

The transaction marks Technicolor’s top foray so far into the Americas.

“NBC Universal’s impressive broadcast facility in Denver represents a major step forward in the global strategy and expansion for Technicolor in North America,” said Bill Patrizio, president, of Technicolor Network Services.

Technicolor has 23 facilities around the world—including in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, France, Japan and Singapore—delivering 320 feeds.