BW’s latest issue has a big cover on ESPN..and the main story is a paean to ESPN boss George Bodenheimer. I still have to wade through the stories in details, but seems to have a lot of info on its digital media efforts, both online and its upcoming mobile service.
On mobile plans: The risk for ESPN is that if the phone bugs out, users won’t be cursing some wireless outfit — they’ll be blaming ESPN. “Content providers need to focus on what they do best,” says one TV executive. “Hardware plays are fraught with problems.” And the venture will require patience. “Sometimes it is up to two years with this kind of business before you reach enough scale with subscribers to be able to turn a profit,” says Marina Amoroso, a wireless analyst with researcher Yankee Group. Bodenheimer says he’s aware of the perils, “but it is a riskier move not to do this.”
ESPN.com story: ESPN doesn’t disclose revenues, but Kosner says the Web site makes most of its money from ads. “It offers the big three,” says Tim Hanlon, a senior vice-president at media-buyer Starcom MediaVest (PUB ). “Young guys. Sports. And a powerhouse media brand. That’s just a home run for advertisers.”
Related: ESPN Reorg Makes John Skipper Content Czar
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