Tata redoubles its commitment to live streaming with the purchase of The Switch

The Switch, a US provider of comprehensive live video production and broadcast services, has been acquired by Tata Communications, a company that seeks to offer services throughout the entire value chain of audiovisual content.

Under the terms of the agreement, Tata Communications has agreed to acquire 100% of the shares of The Switch Enterprises, LLC and certain of its international assets worth approximately $58.8 million (Rs 486.3 crore) in an all-cash transaction (subject to customary closing adjustments). Closing of the transaction is dependent on regulatory approvals. With the union of both companies, Tata Communications will support customers of The Switch with a global reach in more than 190 countries and territories and The Switch will provide state-of-the-art live production capabilities that will help organizations “produce high-quality, more immersive content more quickly and efficiently.” With this move, Tata seeks to “expand its reach” to top-tier American sporting event venues, “consolidate its position in North America” and “enhance its portfolio of services” for live video production and broadcasting.

Tri Pham, strategy director of Tata Communications, considers that "the combined forces of The Switch's strong presence in North America and Tata Communications' global position" will help create "a formidable powerhouse in the global media ecosystem that will help companies leverage new digital consumption patterns to drive innovation and disruption. In addition, The Switch's production infrastructure as a service model will allow Tata Communications clients to accelerate the adoption of remote production from any event around the world." On the other hand, Dhaval Ponda, responsable del negocio M&E de Tata Communications, añade que “con el equipo de The Switch, ahora podremos desarrollar soluciones holísticas y escalables que abarquen la programación en directo y programada para televisión, aprovechando los vídeos pregrabados y archivados para la creación de nuevos contenidos, así como toda la posproducción”.

Eric Cooney, president and CEO of The Switch, also shown excited about the future: "As the media industry evolves, The Switch has an increasingly important role to play in the future of sports and live entertainment and in helping our clients maximize their lucrative content. With Tata Communications we will accelerate this journey by providing stability, investment and vision in support of future growth. I am excited about the future of The Switch and the opportunities this presents for our team and our clients."

Once the transaction is completed, The Switch Enterprises will join the business of Media and Entertainment Services (MONTH) of Tata Communications under the direction of Dhaval Ponda.