Hustler Acquires Sapphire Media

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif.—Hustler has announced the acquisition of Sapphire Media, Europe’s leading distributor of adult content to television, VOD and wireless devices. The new parent entity for Sapphire Media isLFP Media BV. Sapphire Media International BV distributes seven adult channels across Europe, including Blue Hustler, Hustler TV, HustlerHD/3D and Daring!TV to more than 900 distribution partners. It is also one of the leading providers of adult content to IPTV, VOD and mobile operators. The company is headquartered in Amsterdam. “We started working with Sapphire to bring Hustler TV to Europe back in 2005 and within a month we were the mostly widely distributed adult network there thanks in a large part to their efforts,” said Michael H. Klein, president of Hustler. “Based on our strong relationship with them and the prospects for future growth, we felt bringing the Sapphire team on board full time as part of our Broadcasting Group was the smartest move for us.” Adding Sapphire’s library of quality adult programming to Hustler’s robust offerings gives Hustler the opportunity to provide the largest selection of entertainment for tailor-made broadcast solutions on multi-media networks across Europe. Utilizing Sapphire’s in-depth knowledge of the European adult broadcast networks combined with Hustler’s expertise in productions, programming and operations, the U.S.broadcasting team will allow an even stronger worldwide presence across all modes of content delivery to consumers and higher revenue for affiliates. Last year, Hustler and Sapphire partnered to launch a Hustler-branded HD adult channel in Europe, which also supports and delivers 3D content. Sapphire Media also won four awards at last year’s Venus Awards in Berlin, including Best Adult TV Channel/Germany for Hustler TV Deutschland, Best International Adult TV Channel for Hustler TV, Best Offer International VOD and Best HD Channel for Hustler HD/3D channel. For more information, visit Hustler.com.