In the crowded bleachers that are Canadian sports media, the battleground for brand distinction is increasingly digital. Between growth in online editorial and the emergence of mobile and iPad applications, engaging fans on multiple platforms has never been more important.
In a move to further enhance its digital presence, the Score Media announced today it has acquired a 20% stake in Toronto–based mobile and web development firm NuLayer. Score has been working with NuLayer over the last year on a number of its digital products, including the brand’s iPad app, which launched in July.
Financial details of the deal were not released.
The sports broadcaster’s executive vice–president and COO Benjie Levy said the deal will take the Score’s ability to develop new products to another level.
“The guys at NuLayer are incredibly smart and love pushing the envelope, so we’re thrilled to partner more closely with them,” said Levy. “Our overriding philosophy here is to focus on the user. How are people interacting with us and our content? There’s no question we’re seeing a shift in how people are consuming media, so for us to remain relevant, this type of innovation is essential. Opportunities like this only accelerate our ability to push into the digital world.”
Levy credits the Score’s aggressive multi–platform development for much of the company’s financial growth. The company’s reported revenue for third quarter this year increased by 11% to $12 million compared to $10.8 million at the same time last year.
“It’s important for us that we’re not just growing digital for digital’s sake,” said Levy. “It’s a positive contributor to our financial results. We’re not sitting here, investing a ton of money and hoping that there might be a financial return at some point down the road. This is a growing and meaningful part of our business.”
