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NeuLion has acquired U.K.-based OTT service provider Saffron Digital in an all-cash transaction. The deal, which was formally announced on Monday, creates a one-stop shop for owners and rights holders of live or on-demand content, NeuLion Exec VP Chris Wagner said. “As OTT services compete for consumer attention, OTT services offering live sports, movies and TV channels will stand out,” he said. “The NeuLion platform can support this new trend.” NeuLion did not disclose any financial terms. Wagner told SBD Global that the acquisition of Saffron Digital had been in the works for the past 90 days. NeuLion expects the deal will lead to more int’l customers. The U.S.-based company, which specializes in digital video technology, currently employs 60 people at its London office. Wagner said that NeuLion is in the process of building a larger sales force in Europe. Saffron Digital has been working with Hollywood studios and other entertainment content owners for the last 10 years. NeuLion -- whose customers include the NFL, NBA, Euroleague Basketball and the World Surf League -- will continue to put an emphasis on sports rights content. It sees the acquisition as a technological enhancement, Wagner said, to meet the requirements of content rights holders, both sports and movie.
