Ushers in a new world of entertainment with end-to-end live video production powered by global media edge platform
New York, USA and Mumbai, INDIA – 1st May 2023 – Tata Communications, a global digital ecosystem enabler, today announces completion of the acquisition of The Switch Enterprises LLC (The Switch) through its wholly owned international subsidiary Tata Communications (Netherlands) B.V. The US $58.8 Mn (₹486.3 Crores) cash transaction has been closed post customary adjustments and regulatory approvals.
Tata Communications, through its wholly owned international subsidiary Tata Communications (Netherlands) B.V., entered into a definitive agreement to acquire 100% equity stake in New York-headquartered The Switch Enterprises LLC on 22nd December 2022.
With the close of this transaction, the combined strength of Tata Communications and The Switch is set to usher in a new world of end-to-end video production and transmission of high-quality, high-speed, and more immersive live video experiences for viewers and fans from event venues and racetracks to screens across varied equipment such as televisions, mobile devices, etc.
“Immersive video experiences in real-time are going to be the next game changer for enterprises, and our combined expertise will make for a formidable force creating shared value for all,” said Tri Pham, Chief Strategy Officer, Tata Communications. “We’re gearing to bring more powerful platforms for sports federations and broadcasters to help them deliver fast-paced, always-on, and interactive entertainment forms for viewers across borders. We’re extremely pleased to welcome The Switch team to Tata Communications.”
Dhaval Ponda, Global Head of Media & Entertainment Business, Tata Communications added, “Tata Communications and The Switch are now a powerhouse with the combination of live production capabilities, global edge platform dedicated for media & entertainment industry along with end-to-end managed services. These are exciting times in the world of video production for us to make a difference for enterprises and engage consumers. Together, we are leveraging the expertise of both companies to bring some never-before-known experiences for fans globally – whether they are playing esports, watching a live tournament, or live streaming a concert. We welcome and wish our colleagues from The Switch all the very best for their future.”
Eric Cooney, President & CEO, The Switch said, “The Switch is a market leader offering live production and transmission services to hundreds of customers in the United States and abroad. This acquisition by Tata Communications is a key milestone in our growth journey and enables us to expand our horizons. Together with Tata Communications, we are excited to step up our customers’ growth journeys, enhance viewer experiences and expand globally.”
With the completion of this transaction, The Switch Enterprises joins the Media and Entertainment Services (MES) business of Tata Communications under the leadership of Dhaval Ponda, Global Head of Media and Entertainment Business, Tata Communications.
About The Switch Enterprises
In the action-packed world of live video production and delivery, The Switch is always on and always there – setting the industry benchmark for quality, reliability, and unmatched levels of service. Founded in 1991 and headquartered in New York, The Switch has been connecting viewers around the world to live events for almost three decades, bringing them the content they want across linear TV, on-demand, and streaming platforms – on multiple screens and devices.
The Switch’s comprehensive production platform combines mobile and remote services to enable its customers to cost-effectively capture, edit and package compelling, high-quality live coverage. The Switch’s delivery network connects production facilities with 800+ of the world’s largest content producers, distributors, and sports and event venues, seamlessly linking rights holders, broadcasters, streaming platforms, media outlets, and web services – and turning-on live content across the world. For more information, please visit www.theswitch.tv
About Tata Communications
A part of the Tata Group, Tata Communications (NSE: TATACOMM; BSE: 500483) is a global digital ecosystem enabler powering today’s fast-growing digital economy in more than 190 countries and territories. Leading with trust, it enables digital transformation of enterprises globally with collaboration and connected solutions, core and next gen connectivity, cloud hosting and security solutions, and media services. 300 of the Fortune 500 companies are its customers and the company connects businesses to 80% of the world’s cloud giants. For more information, please visit www.tatacommunications.com
