NEP snaps up Baltimore-based wireless tech firm Broadcast Sports International

NEP has bought the wireless video and audio systems developer Broadcast Sports International (BSI), a move that adds additional RF capabilities to its ever-increasing range of broadcast services.

Baltimore-based BSI designs and produces wireless networks and wireless A/V systems for television networks and sports leagues. Its range of products includes wireless camera systems, wireless audio systems, wireless communications systems and digital technology to receive, decode and distribute images and sounds.

Following the deal, the BSI brand will remain with the company supporting NEP and its clients across the world. Chief executive Jeremy Pink and president Peter Larsson will continue to run the business, reporting to Mike Werteen, global president of NEP Broadcast Services.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Werteen, discussing the acquisition, said: “We’ve worked alongside BSI’s team for years and share a great deal of respect for their high-quality work and technology.

“BSI and NEP share similar service-oriented cultures centred on delivering exceptional results for our clients, so this is a great fit all around. We’re excited to bring their cutting-edge wireless solutions and talent into the NEP Worldwide Network and to our clients.”

Founded in 1979, BSI provides onboard cameras for NASCAR races and wireless cameras and microphones for PGA golf events. Other clients include BT Sport, Sky Sports, ESPN and ITV Sport.

BSI is fully licensed by the FCC for regular broadcast bands as well as for additional portions of the wireless spectrum for large events.

Pink added: “I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished at BSI. Combining our wireless talents and technology with an industry leader like NEP will take our business even further and, most importantly, it will benefit our clients by enabling us to provide them with a full suite of broadcast and speciality services.”

The BSI acquisition is the latest in a line of deals for NEP. This year alone the company has bought Fletcher Group, SIS LIVE, the Sydney-based live event company Big Picture and the Italian OB firm Telerecord.

In addition to its Baltimore HQ, BSI also has an international office in Watford.