Glasgow 2014 names SVGTV as host broadcaster

05 July 2012 | Posted in Broadcast, Multiple sports, Europe | By Tom Love Glasgow 2014 names SVGTV as host broadcaster

The host broadcaster contract for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games has been awarded to SVGTV, a joint-venture between sports broadcast experts Sunset+Vine and Australian-based Global Television.

In winning the Glasgow 2014 bid, SVGTV, who will open an office in Glasgow, will be solely responsible for the delivery of high-definition coverage of the Games that will be distributed to a potential worldwide audience of one billion.

Additionally, according to an official press release, 'the appointment of SVGTV as the Games' host broadcaster will bring a boost to Scotland's creative sector, creating up to 1000 job opportunities as well as providing world-class training for a new generation of young broadcast specialists.

'The design, installation and operation of the International Broadcast Centre will also be managed by SVGTV.'

Financial terms of the contract were not released, however, Glasgow 2014 chairman Lord Robert Smith did reveal that it was the organisation's "largest contract".

“Today’s announcement of Sunset+Vine and Global Television as our host broadcaster is a significant milestone in our journey to the Games," said Lord Smith. "This will give a huge boost to the Scotland’s creative industries as a whole with at least 1,000 jobs becoming available at games-time either behind or in front of camera. By creating jobs for at least 120 students, we hope to leave a positive and lasting effect on the media industry in Scotland.”

First Minister of Scotland Alex Salmond added, "The announcement of the host broadcaster this morning marks the largest contract that Glasgow 2014 will enter into, allowing the showcasing of Scotland's Commonwealth Games to a potential audience of more than a billion people worldwide. It will not only mean an enormous contribution towards the successful delivery of the Games, but will give a huge boost to Scotland's creative industries. During the Games up to 1,000 broadcast-related job opportunities will be available - leading to huge demand for the talented broadcasters and technicians we have here in Scotland.

"The positive legacy that Sunset+Vine and Global Television will leave behind is also pivotal. At least 120 graduates from Scotland will work with them during the Games, creating a talent pool that I know will be highly sought-after when Scotland hosts other sporting events in years to come - not least of which will be the 2014 Ryder Cup. Planning for Glasgow 2014 is on time and on budget and signing the contract with the host broadcaster represents a very significant milestone."

Sunset+Vine chairman Jeff Foulser said, "We are delighted to have been successful in this joint bid with Global Television to become Host Broadcaster of the XX Commonwealth Games. Such a prestigious and high-profile global sporting event comes with its own set of unique and complex production, technical and logistical issues that require effective handling and expert execution. We believe that in partnering with Global Television we can deliver a broadcast solution that rivals any sporting event in the world.”

Global Television chief executive Keith Andrews said, "The Commonwealth Games host broadcaster role is a big responsibility, encompassing every aspect of the production and technical delivery of the international television and radio signals. Around the world, perceptions of the Games will depend on flawless, timely international distribution of material. We’re proud to be showcasing our expertise on the world stage through Glasgow 2014 and in partnership with Sunset+Vine we are excited about what we will achieve in both broadcast delivery and audience satisfaction."

The Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games will take place between 23rd July and 4th August.

Image shows First Minister Alex Salmond, Scottish Badmington player Caitlan Pringle and Glasgow 2014 chairman Lord Robert Smith

An interview with Glasgow 2014 chief executive David Grevemberg appeared in the July 2012 edition of SportsPro. To subscribe to the magazine, click here.