Thomson Broadcast Acquires GatesAir

Thomson Broadcast has announced the successful completion of the acquisition of GatesAir – a global leader in wireless, over-the-air content delivery solutions for radio and TV broadcasters – from an affiliate of The Gores Group (Gores).

Ylias Akbaraly, Chairman of Thomson Broadcast, said: "The acquisition of GatesAir is an excellent and significant step for Thomson Broadcast to further reinforce its worldwide leadership in the fast-evolving world of broadcast technology. Today opens an exciting new era in the rich history of two companies and trusted brands that have each been delighting customers for more than 100 years. Today's announcement is also exciting for our customers and employees. The combined force of these ideal strategic partners will support each other's growth and the growth of the industry at large.

"Thanks to its global platform, significant resources, and commercial and innovation expertise, Thomson Broadcast is perfectly positioned to ensure the success of GatesAir's operations over the long term.

"We are convinced that this great combination will create a very strong platform with improved reach and value-added solutions and services delivered to our customers."

Bruce D. Swail, CEO of GatesAir, added: "Yesterday's milestone marks the completion of a robust process that evaluated strategic options for GatesAir to accelerate our strong growth to date.

"We are delighted with final outcome of the acquisition process and look forward to working together with our new partners for this next chapter in our eventful story."

Amine Oubid, CEO Thomson Broadcast, France, also said: "The acquisition with GatesAir strengthens our position to deliver great products and services to our worldwide customers. Synergy between both companies will lead us to better customer acquisition and enhanced solutions for building the next broadcast infrastructure."

"GatesAir and Thomson Broadcast combine century-old dedication to the broadcast industry to innovate and bring cutting edge solutions to the market," said Aby Alexander, President, Thomson Broadcast, US. "This acquisition will strengthen our presence globally to be the leader in the industry."

"We are pleased to have played an important role in GatesAir's transformational growth, and we believe that Thomson Broadcast is well positioned to strengthen its position as a premier leader in broadcasting," said Edward Johnson, Senior Managing Director at The Gores Group. "We thank Bruce and the GatesAir team for our successful partnership over the years and believe the company will continue to drive further growth with the support of Thomson Broadcast."

www.gatesair.com
www.gores.com
www.thomsonbroadcast.tv