Hammerhead TV acquired by equipment hire rival

THE Scots broadcasting equipment hire company, Hammerhead TV, has been acquired by a rival.

Says Procam, which describes itself as the “UK’s largest broadcast hire facility”: “The acquisition sees Procam expand into Scotland whilst strengthening its existing operations in London and Manchester.”

Hammerhead TV has offices in both Edinburgh and Glasgow.

A Procam media release continues: “The announcement marks Procam’s first acquisition since the company’s successful management buy-out in May 2013. The strategic purchase was led by Procam’s group CEO, John Brennan, and backed by private equity firm, Foresight Group.

“With offices in Glasgow and Edinburgh as well as London and Manchester, Hammerhead TV is a long-established company and a major player in the Scottish broadcast hire market. Since 1988, the company has provided crew and equipment for some of Britain’s most-loved shows, including The Secret Millionaire, Britain’s Next Top Model and Dragon’s Den.

“Scotland has a strong history in the broadcast sector and following London, is the second-biggest market for film, television and animation production in the UK [according to figures from Scottish Development International]. Procam intends to build on the solid foundations laid by Hammerhead to grow the sector and maximise the economic potential of this buoyant industry.”

The release quotes Brennan, as saying: “Our customers tell us they want a consistently high level of service and equipment, wherever they’re filming. We’re on a mission to make that a reality and today’s news shows how we’re investing to extend the reach of the Procam offer across the UK. Together with organisations like Creative Scotland, we’re confident we can make Scotland an even more attractive option by delivering a first-class infrastructure for broadcasters and production companies.”

And Phil Mews, client sales manager from Hammerhead TV, is also quoted, this time saying: “To be part of the largest broadcast hire company in the UK is hugely exciting. This acquisition provides new opportunities for all those involved including staff and clients.”