Media and entertainment company HT&E has launched a new division and brand — HT&E Events — and will create an Australian esports business in partnership with Gfinity eSports Australia and IKON Media & Entertainment.
The companies have entered into a joint venture to create the new division and brand.
They say the events business will enhance the complementary nature of HT&E’s existing radio, outdoor and digital businesses by providing “unique content that is targeted to HT&E audiences and is highly relevant for brands”.
HT&E chief executive and managing director Ciaran Davis says the partnership will deliver Australian gamers a clear and structured top-to-bottom competitive framework within Australian eSports.
{loadposition peter}A competition for enthusiasts at all levels — from the amateur at home, to the eSports professional — Davis said it would for the first time offer a clear pathway between the two, as amateur players earn the right to compete alongside seasoned professionals. The Elite Series will see city-based franchise teams compete weekly at dedicated eSports venues, with each event broadcast live online and across other TV and media platforms.
“We are very pleased to be partnering with IKON Media & Entertainment under the new banner of HT&E Events, which will house the eSports business and manage other niche events for Australian audiences. IKON bring to the table a depth of understanding and expertise in delivering experiences in sports, entertainment and media, making them the perfect partner as we move into this new area,” Davis said.
“The global eSports market has seen substantial growth in recent years, and we’re really excited to be entering this space with an established, world leading eSports business, Gfinity. This move supports our strategic objectives to diversify revenues and expand our audience base, and we see in this opportunity the potential to reach a younger audience base and drive growth for HT&E.”