DCDC to Acquire Deluxe/EchoStar Satellite Network

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Mon, 03/31/2014 - 15:25 -- Nick Dager

The Digital Cinema Distribution Coalition has signed a letter of intent to acquire the Deluxe/EchoStar satellite network, adding nearly 1,000 theater sites to its broad footprint. DCDC CEO Randy Blotky and Joe Hart, senior vice president of digital cinema North America at Deluxe Entertainment Services Group made the announcement at CinemaCon last week.

The Deluxe/EchoStar joint venture, formed in 2010 between digital asset management and distribution company Deluxe Digital Cinema, a subsidiary of Deluxe Entertainment Services Group and satellite operations/transmission operator EchoStar Satellite Services, a subsidiary of EchoStar Corporation, will continue to serve as DCDC’s primary service provider. 

“This important agreement creates clarity in the marketplace. It clarifies the roles of DCDC and Deluxe/EchoStar for their respective customers and potential future customers, and it shines a spotlight on DCDC’s future expansion pathway,” Blotky said, adding, “The agreement provides an opportunity for DCDC to accelerate the growth of its network in a rational and efficacious manner, while maintaining the terrific working relationship we have with our friends and colleagues at Deluxe/EchoStar.”

Hart said, “This transaction is beneficial to both of our organizations. It significantly enhances overall distribution effectiveness through DCDC and allows us to increase our efficiency as a vendor. It opens the door to the distribution of not only features but trailers and alternative content as well."

The DCDC, founded by leading exhibitors AMC Theatres, Cinemark Theatres and Regal Entertainment, and major studios Warner Bros. and Universal Pictures, went live last October with the historic launch of its platform to 17,000 screens across 1,200 theaters.  The Walt Disney Company, Sony Pictures, 20th Century Fox, Paramount Pictures, Lionsgate and Open Road have signed on as content provider customers of DCDC, with Southern Theatres and National Amusements joining as exhibitor customers of DCDC.