All posts by Sophie Bessette

June 15, 2016

Stingray at the Forefront of the 4K Revolution with the Acquisition of Festival 4K

Stingray Digital Group Inc. (TSX: RAY. A; RAY B.), a leading business-to-business multiplatform music provider, today announced that it has acquired the Festival 4K television channel.

Available to more than 7 million subscribers currently under contract, Festival 4K is the leading 4K Ultra HD channel with an international customer base. Its diverse programming includes hundreds of hours of extraordinary shows and events recorded live. Pay-TV providers carrying Festival 4K  include VOO in Belgium, Free in France, and Vodafone in Spain.

“Following the introduction of Stingray Ambiance in 4K in September 2015, we are excited to add Festival 4K as a complement to our product offering,” said Mathieu Péloquin, senior vice-president, marketing and communications of Stingray. “The demand for expertly curated cultural programming in 4K UHD quality is growing exponentially worldwide. Festival 4K’s superior resolution provides viewers with the incredible experience of being front row center at the world’s best concerts, festivals, circus shows, and events. “

Launched in April 2015, Festival 4K, one of the first channel in the world to broadcast nonstop in native 4K UHD, programs a range of live performances including  festivals, concerts and theatre productions.

The acquisition of Festival 4K demonstrates Stingray’s commitment to providing Pay-TV providers and their subscribers with the widest variety of quality music content on all platforms.

FESTIVAL 4K HIGHLIGHTS

  • Resolution from 2160 pixels to 4320 pixels.
  • 2.0, 5.1 or 10.2 Dolby Digital audio quality.
  • A wide range of live shows such as festivals, concerts, circus shows, operas, musical theatre and more.
  • 24/7 programming without commercials or interruptions.

For more information about Festival 4K, consult the website at: http://festival4k.tv/

June 7, 2016

Stingray Counters Music Choice’s Allegations of Patent Infringement

Stingray Digital Group Inc. (TSX: RAY. A; RAY. B.), a leading business-to-business multiplatform music solutions provider, announced today that it has received notice of a complaint for patent infringement brought by Music Choice in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, Marshall Division, alleging infringement of certain claims under U.S. Patent no. 8,769,602; no. 9,357,245; no. 7,320,025; and no. 9,351,045.

Although Stingray is in the process of analyzing the claims made in the complaint, including the validity of the patents asserted by Music Choice, Stingray believes that the Music Choice allegations are simply not relevant: Stingray does not use (much less infringe) the Music Choice patents.  Given the significant inroads that Stingray has made in the U.S. market with its industry-changing technology, Stingray believes that Music Choice’s complaint is without merit and primarily motivated by competitive concerns rather than a desire to protect its intellectual property.  Stingray believes that Music Choice’s actions are a desperate attempt to disrupt how enthusiastically customers have embraced Stingray’s innovative product offering alleging infringement of certain claims. Stingray intends to vigorously defend itself against this action.

May 24, 2016

Stingray Brava, proud partner of the 5th edition of the OSM Couche-Tard Classical Spree

Stingray Brava, Stingray’s new specialized television channel dedicated to classical music, opera, and ballet, unveiled the details of its partnership with 2016 edition of the OSM Couche-Tard Classical Spree. The collaboration, which aims to promote and democratize access to classical music, includes the sponsorship of an interior stage located at the Espace culturel Georges-Émile-Lapalme of the Place des Arts.

August 10-13, 2016, music lovers, both novices and connoisseurs, are invited to stop by the Stingray Brava stage where free activities will be held all day long!

Musical performances

Attend free music performances and discover up-and-coming talents including :

  • Trio débonnaire
  • Duo ExAequo
  • Flutist Lara Deutsch (winner of a 2015 Stingray Rising Star award)

Participatory activities

The entire family is invited to take part in a the many participatory activities such as :

  • Encounter with OSM musicians
  • Conferences
  • Introduction to the basics of being a conductor

Stingray Brava is thrilled be partnering with the OSM Couche-Tard Classical Spree, a celebration of classical music that offers concerts for the entire family, special programming for children and free activities, exhibits and encounters with artists.

For more information about the OSM Couche-Tard Classical Spree and the complete programming of the Stingray Brava stage : http://vireeclassique.osm.ca

About Stingray Brava

Stingray Brava is the only television channel dedicated to classical music, opera, and ballet. The channel reaches more than 35 million subscribers in 50 countries. The content includes performances filmed at the world’s grandest venues, documentaries, and interviews with musicians and maestros. Stingray Brava is presented without talk, advertising or interruptions and is programmed for all lovers of great music.

May 3, 2016

Stingray Launches its Free Stingray Music Mobile App in the Netherlands

Stingray (TSX: RAY.A; RAY.B), the world-leading provider of multiplatform music products, services and content, today announced the launch of the Stingray Music mobile app with Vibes channels in the Netherlands; a European first.

The Stingray Music mobile app is a FREE companion service to the Stingray Music audio television channels available through Pay-TV providers. The app allows user to listen to the same channel line-up they enjoy at home. Each Stingray Music channel offers up to 3,000 tracks and broadcasts continuously. In addition, users can also explore 2,000 Vibes channels channels in 100 genres curated for every activity, mood and occasion. Each Vibes channel features a minimum of 150 tracks (up to 2000) and broadcasts  an average of 10 to 12 hours of music.

“We are proud to bring the Stingray Music mobile app with Vibes channels to music lovers in the Netherlands,” said Eric Boyko, President, Co-founder and CEO of Stingray. “The Stingray Music mobile app is a strategic addition to our portfolio of products and we are thrilled by the rapid adoption rate by TV providers. Stingray is quickly consolidating its position as the one-stop-shop for listeners worldwide who want access to the quality music content on every platform, whether TV, Web or mobile. I am convinced users will quickly adopt the app as the ideal complement to all their daily activities.”

The Stingray Music mobile app provides a universe of unlimited music options, and the possibility of creating listening experiences that surpass expectations.The app was launched in October 2014 and already counts close to 1 million users. Every week, music fans spend an average of five hours listening to their favourite tracks and artists!

Subscribers access the Stingray Music mobile app by authenticating themselves using a proprietary audio imprinting technology.

INTRODUCING VIBES CHANNELS

Vibes channels were first launched in Canada in July 2015. More than 50 Vibes channels were created specially for the Netherlands market by Stingray’s team of local music programmers.

By combining filters in Activity, Mood, Theme, Era, and Genre categories, Vibes channels offer the best possible listening experience for all situations; whether you need energetic pop songs to motivate a workout, elegant jazz tracks to entertain friends or indie electronic beats to amp up your night.

“We are beyond thrilled to introduce 2,000  Vibes channels to listeners in the Netherlands,” said Mathieu Péloquin, Senior Vice-President, Marketing and Communications of Stingray. “Our objective when developing Vibes channels was to give users the chance to dive into an infinite world of music where the perfect soundtrack for all of life’s occasions is always right at their fingertips. We are confident that Vibes channels will quickly become essential to all music lovers.”

 

Features of the Stingray Music mobile app with Vibes channels

  • Unlimited: access all your favourite audio television channels and 2,000 additional Vibes channels.
  • Personalized: get recommendations based on your tastes, preferences, and listening history.
  • Curated: every channel programmed by music experts from across the globe
  • Simple: authenticate instantly with audio signal recognition from your TV provider or with a single login.
  • Social: sign-in and share using your Facebook account.
  • No ads. No talk. Just great music.

For more information about Stingray Music and available audio channels: music.stringray.com

For more information about the Stingray Music mobile app with app channels: http://www.stingray.com/mobile

The Stingray Music mobile app is available for download in the App Store and Google Play Store.

May 2, 2016

Stingray expands distribution agreement with Comcast

Stingray Digital Group Inc. (TSX: RAY. A; RAY. B.), a leading business-to-business multiplatform music solutions provider, announced the expansion of their distribution deal with Comcast to bring thousands of new music selections to Xfinity On Demand platforms.

“We are extremely pleased to be expanding our relationship with Comcast, a key client and longstanding partner from our earliest days,” said Eric Boyko, President, Co-founder and CEO of Stingray. “Our continued global success is partially due to leveraging the trust clients have placed in us and providing them with the highest level of service. This agreement with Comcast is an important showcase for the quality and diversity of Stingray’s product portfolio.”

Xfinity TV customers will soon be able to access thousands of music videos from Stingray across devices on Xfinity On Demand. Under the terms of the agreement, Stingray’s other music services such as Stingray Ambiance, Stingray Brava, and Stingray DJazz are available to Comcast to offer on the platform in the future. In addition, Comcast has extended its existing deal with Stingray to continue offering the KARAOKE Channel’s extensive song library and Stingray Concerts’ catalog of exhilarating live shows on Xfinity On Demand.

April 29, 2016

Hortau among ”water solutions” showcased at Sustainability Summit

Hortau was among the Canadian “water solutions” companies showcased at the 10th Annual Sustainability Summit on April 29 at the Getty Center in Los Angeles, Calif.

Sustainability SummitThe focus of the summit, hosted by the Los Angeles Business Council, was “California’s Energy and Water Future in a Global Market.”

Hortau was one of two Canadian companies highlighted by James Villeneuve, Consul General of Canada in Los Angeles, during the final session of the day, “Partnership Solutions to Address California’s Water Crisis.”

Founded in Québec in 2002, Hortau has its U.S. headquarters based in San Luis Obispo, Calif., providing its irrigation management services to hundreds of growers throughout California. Hortau has also expanded its presence in the Pacific Northwest, Southwest, and High Plains.

Hortau was recently named to Global Cleantech’s Top 100 Companies to Watch list by the Cleantech Group, recognizing “companies that are best positioned to solve tomorrow’s clean technology challenges and have the greatest impact on the market.”

“They’re operating in your fields here, in the agricultural sector, which is important for Canada,” Villeneuve said of the largest importer of agriculture products from California and the U.S. “What they do is measure the soil on a regular basis in terms of the water you’re using and there’s a couple of things that does: It measures the tension in the soil so you can calibrate the water you use, get better yield and use less water – versus having water that’s not properly used.”

UV Pure Technologies, an Ontario-based company that specializes in UV water purification systems, was also showcased during the presentation by Villeneuve.

“Both of those companies are great examples of how Canadian technologies are participating in the water situation here in California,” Villeneuve said.

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April 18, 2016

Stingray Wins Competitive Bid to Provide Music Service to LCBO

Stingray (TSX: RAY.A; RAY.B), a leading business-to-business multi-platform music and in-store media solutions provider, today announced that it was selected through a competitive bidding process with the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) and has signed a contract to provide custom in-store music to the  more than 650 LCBO locations. Stingray has been an LCBO vendor since 2009.

Through Stingray Business, its in-store media solutions division, Stingray will be creating 13 themed music channels to be broadcast in all LCBO locations throughout the year.

The LCBO is an Ontario government enterprise and one of the world’s largest buyers and retailers of beverage alcohol. Through more than 650 retail stores, catalogs, special order services and more than 210 agency stores, the LCBO offers nearly 24,000 products annually to consumers and licensed establishments from more than 80 countries.

“We have built a solid relationship with the LCBO over the past six years and are thrilled to continue providing them with expertly programmed music that has been customized to their specific requirements to enhance the customer experience,” said Eric Boyko, President, Co-founder, and CEO of Stingray. “Stingray Business is dedicated to helping its commercial clients reach their business objectives through the use of expertly programmed music channels and immersive digital experiences.”

Stingray Business’ mission is to create welcoming environments for commercial clients, which align perfectly with their brand image and contribute to reaching key marketing objectives and increasing sales. Its expertise has been leveraged in 74,000 commercial establishments across Canada such as hotels, restaurants, retail stores, banks and other lines of business. For more information: http://business.stingray.com/

March 29, 2016

CVTCORP Looks ahead after Successful EcoMec 150 Product Launch in the Construction Industry

CVTCORP, a worldwide leader in advanced engineering and the design and manufacture of mechanical continuously variable transmissions (mCVT) returned from the recently completed shows of World of Concrete and the American Rental Association with requests for future product development. “With the launch of our mCVT in the new series of Skyjack Telehandlers (TH Line) at the World of Concrete, we were very encouraged at how many customers were interested in an engine/transmission combination that would not require the use of DEF and had improved fuel efficiency and preferred operator control systems vs the accepted power shift/torque converter combination,” said Daniel Girard, Founder and CEO of CVTCORP. “The feedback we received regarding the importance of ease of customer use, fuel efficiency and safe guards to prevent operator misuse were all verified at both shows by the rental companies and with end users.”

 

“The ability to use a smaller engine with a more fuel efficient and robust transmission was a key discussion point with many customers,” said Richard Rose, CMO and Business Development of CVTCORP. “The ability of our mCVT to match the correct transmission ratio with equipment speed and load was very important to all users. They could see where the efficiency and usability of the transmission was a better choice than a typical 3 or 4 speed powershift and torque converter. One of the most interesting discussion topics was the incorporation of telematics to control speed in construction areas and with loads during operation. Our open architecture transmission control system allows for these types of important safety packages.”

 

“The 2016 introduction of the SkyJack TH series of telehandlers will showcase our EcoMec 150 mCVT technology for use in tele handlers but the same transmission is also designed to fit in loaders and backhoe loader installations. 2016 will therefore be a very big year for us with this first introduction and the use of this transmission in other market segments,” said Daniel Girard. “We will be at the BAUMA show with our JV partner Jinmyung Frictech in Hall C4.303/J with our mechanical CVT on display for demonstrations and to answer any questions.”

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March 23, 2016

Singing Machine and Stingray Report Triple Digit Growth in Digital Karaoke Music Sales

The Singing Machine Company, Inc.  (“Singing Machine”) (OTCQB: SMDM) and Stingray Digital Group Inc. (TSX: RAY. A; RAY. B), today announced significant growth in customers, downloads and revenue related to their continued karaoke partnership.

This success can be attributed to the August 2015 launch of Singing Machine’s innovative line of Digital Download Karaoke machines that work with Stingray’s redesigned new Karaoke Store. Since the launch, the Karaoke Store has delivered more than 260,000 karaoke videos, experienced a 45% increase in unique visitors, a 195% increase in orders, and a 107% increase in average revenue per user, compared to the same period the previous year. This successful partnership initiative gives karaoke fans easier-than-ever access to the fun of karaoke.

The reach and expertise of both companies played a crucial role in this significant growth in music sales: Singing Machine, the North American leader in consumer karaoke products, brings to the partnership the most recognized brand in home karaoke hardware and world-wide distribution of over 1 million karaoke products per year, while Stingray, a leader in business-to-business multi-platform music, offers the largest library of licensed karaoke content and experience in music product development and distribution.

“Karaoke has been a part of Stingray’s DNA since its earliest days,” said Mathieu Péloquin, Senior Vice-President, Marketing and Communications of Stingray.”When karaoke fans are happy, we are happy! The immediate success of our new Karaoke Store confirms that there is a demand for innovative products that facilitate access to karaoke content so consumers can spend more time singing. We are pleased to continue to partner with Singing Machine to bring new karaoke solutions to market.”

Gary Atkinson, Singing Machine CEO, commented, “We’re thrilled with the early success of the new Karaoke Store. Our customers are embracing the concept of downloads for karaoke and the feedback we’ve received has been overwhelmingly positive. We believe the recurring music revenue will continue to grow to become a significant portion of revenues as we continue to expand the digital download line of hardware and intend to incorporate Bluetooth™ technology into approximately 90% of our product lineup for this coming year.”

Product details:

  • The Stingray Karaoke Store features more than 11,000 songs in the style of today’s top artists and yesterday’s legends, with more songs added weekly.
  • The Karaoke Store is a desktop application that can be installed on Microsoft Windows or Apple Macintosh computers that allows songs to be easily transferred from the Store to Singing Machine’s new digital download line of karaoke products.
  • Singing Machine’s new digital download line of karaoke products feature the ability to play High-Definition karaoke videos, and offer customers the ability to search, sort, and create custom playlists.
  • The Karaoke Store is fully compatible with Singing Machine Classic machines that feature MP3+G file format support.

In addition, The Singing Machine Mobile Karaoke App (powered by The KARAOKE Channel), also in partnership with Stingray, has seen a 22% increase year-over-year in app downloads and a 72% increase in revenue. The mobile app works on Bluetooth™ compatible Singing Machine karaoke systems. During December 2015, the app reached as high as the #9 top grossing App in the music section of the Apple™ App Store in the US.

March 15, 2016

Stingray’s DJAZZ.tv Channel Now Available on Bouygues Telecom

Stingray Digital Group Inc. (TSX: RAY. A; RAY B.), a leading business-to-business multiplatform music provider, today announced that its DJAZZ.tv television channel is now available as part of the “Grand Angle” package of French Pay-TV provider Bouygues Telecom at position 73. As a special introductory offer, Bouygues subscribers will enjoy DJAZZ.tv free until March 22, 2016.

The French version of DJAZZ.tv offers varied international and French programming. This integration represents a new phase of expansion for the Dutch channel, launched in 2012 on CANALSAT, which has seen an increase in its international distribution since the recent acquisition by Stingray.

Since November 2015, DJAZZ.tv has been included in the basic package of French Pay-TV provider Free; reaching close to 6 million subscribers. At the time of the transaction, the channel was distributed in 42 countries in Europe, Africa, and the Caribbean.

The Importance of France for DJAZZ.tv

Since its launch in 2012, DJAZZ.tv has earned widespread acclaim in France where jazz is more popular than anywhere else in Europe. The channel’s programming is therefore oriented towards French content and presents performances filmed at the most renowned jazz clubs and festivals such as the New Morning Jazz Club, the Casino de Paris and Lyons’ Hot Club. The programming also focuses on French events such as the Fête de la Musique. For several years now, DJAZZ.tv cameras have been present at international festivals such as Jazz à Vienne, Nancy Jazz Pulsations and Jazz en Baie where they have filmed more than 250 interviews with some of jazz’s biggest names. DJazz.tv has its own premises in Paris and develops alliances and partnership from a first regional hub (Rhône-Alpes) region). For more information about DJazz.tv, please visit www.djazzfr.tv.

DJAZZ.tv: Living the World of Jazz

Developed under the motto “Living the World of Jazz”, Djazz’s programming is fully dedicated to jazz and related genres. The programing includes all jazz genres including world music, tango, reggae, soul, gospel, funk and blues. The channel is a mix of performances filmed at jazz festivals, in clubs, in studios and at concerts, and of music documentaries. The channel is broadcast in 100% HD and 100% Dolby Digital Audio.

February 29, 2016

Stingray Inks Strategic Deal with UAE-based du

Stingray Digital Group Inc. (TSX: RAY.A; RAY.B), a leading business-to-business multi-platform music provider, today announced a strategic agreement with du. As a result of the agreement, Stingray Music and Stingray Concerts will now be available to du home customers across the UAE. This deal marks Stingray’s entry into the UAE market.

“We are proud to partner with du,” said Eric Boyko, President, Co-founder and CEO of Stingray. “We believe in creating music products and services that can adapt to local cultures and trends in response to each partners’ requirements. We continue to leverage our expertise to expand our reach across all continents and to solidify our reputation as a key industry player.”

du home customers now have even more choice when it comes to the music they want to hear, when they want to hear it.

 

Stingray Music

  • Over 50 expertly curated audio channels.
  • Available through the Stingray Music TV app or the FREE Stingray Music mobile app.
  • Access to cover art, artists’ names and track titles.
  • Many popular genres such as rock and hip-hop as well as an international selection of Arabic, Asian, Indian, Farsi, Punjabi, Latin American and Tagalog music.

 

Stingray Concerts

  • For customers who want to watch their favourite music stars perform live on stage
  • Available On Demand.
  • Continually updated selection of the most exciting live shows of today and decades past, including performances by Adele, The Rolling Stones, Duran Duran and Jay-Z.

“People form powerful bonds with music; it can evoke feelings of nostalgia, excitement and love. We care about our customers, and providing them with the best that music has to offer –at no extra cost– is just another way that we add value to their lives. By continually developing our home services, and enhancing it with a rich variety of content that addresses all tastes, we are consistently providing our customers with the best entertainment experience. We look forward to a harmonious partnership with Stingray,” said Fahad Al Hassawi, Chief Commercial Officer of du.

du and Stingray will continue to develop their music offering, with additional services scheduled to be deployed this year. du will soon be offering its subscribers access to the Stingray Karaoke TV app. Music lovers will enjoy the vast choice of hits presented with high-quality scrolling lyrics displayed on video backgrounds and optional lead vocal tracks.

February 25, 2016

Stingray Appoints Alejandra Olea as General Manager to Spearhead Growth in Latin America

Stingray Digital Group Inc., (TSX: RAY.A; RAY.B), a leading business-to-business multi-platform music and in-store media solutions provider, today announced the appointment of Alejandra Olea as General Manager, Latin America, effective immediately. Mrs. Olea brings close to 15 years of business development, sales, and content distribution experience in the television industry. In her position, she will spearhead Stingray’s next phase of growth in Latin America and help bring out the company’s full potential in the market. She will be based in the company’s Miami office.

“We are thrilled to welcome Alejandra as part of Stingray’s management team,” said Eric Boyko, President, Co-founder and CEO of Stingray. “Her energy and impeccable reputation within the industry are strong foundations on which to build our Latin American business development plan, which includes continued expansion and a foray into local content production.”

“I could not be happier to join Stingray and look forward to working with the management and sales teams to expand and deepen the company’s reach in Latin America,” said Alejandra Olea, General Manager, Latin America of Stingray. “Having the opportunity to bring Stingray’s impressive range of products, robust music catalogue, and innovative technologies to a region that is notorious for its musical affluence and interest is something that I plan to achieve with great success and enormous enthusiasm.”

Mrs. Olea has worked in nearly every major capital city in the Latin American region and maintains relationships with leading distributors, programmers, brands, and media organizations worldwide. Most recently, Mrs. Olea held the position of vice-president integrated sales – content, channels, format and co-production at BBC Worldwide. She began her career in television with content distributor Tepuy (now Telemundo Internacional). She has also held positions at Sony Pictures Entertainment Television and DIRECTV Latin America. Mrs. Olea is a graduate of Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service.

Stingray is also pleased to announce that its former General Manager for Latin America, Gustavo Tonelli, will remain within the Stingray family, where he will develop and produce exclusive content for various initiatives in Latin American markets.

 

 

February 24, 2016

Stingray Acquires Nümedia

Stingray Digital Group Inc. (TSX: RAY. A; RAY B), a leading business-to-business multiplatform music and in-store solutions provider, today announced that it has  acquired  Nümedia, a company that counts Cogeco Data Services (a subsidiary of Cogeco Communications Inc.) as one of its minority shareholders. Nümedia provides intelligent media solutions to its client by enabling in-venue music, experiences, communication, engagement, and activation. The transaction is valued at $2 million.

“This transaction represents another milestone for Stingray Business, our commercial services division, and represents an opportunity to leverage the complementary strength of both companies,” said Eric Boyko, President, Co-founder, and CEO of Stingray. “The acquisition of Nümedia will enhance our competitiveness and confirm our leadership position in the field of in-store media solutions. We look forward to integrating the Nümedia team, to learning from their solid track record, and to developing long-term relationships with our new clients.”

Stingray’s decision to acquire Nümedia was based in part on its impressive and varied client list.The acquisition creates significant operational synergies with Stingray Business, which currently operates in over 74,000 locations across Canada, amongst them ALDO shoes, TD Canada Trust, A&W restaurants, Sports Experts, Sobeys and Canadian Tire.

“On behalf of Cogeco and Nümedia’s other shareholders, we are thrilled to see that the team at Nümedia will be able to grow and thrive as part of Stingray,” said Louis Audet, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cogeco Inc. and Cogeco Communications Inc.

For more information about Stingray Business: http://business.stingray.com

For more information about Nümedia: http://www.numediacanada.com/

February 16, 2016

A Canadian First: Stingray Launches The Stingray Music Videos TV App for TELUS Optik TV™ Subscribers

Stingray Digital Group Inc. (TSX: RAY. A; RAY B), a leading business-to-business multiplatform music provider, and TELUS (TSX: T, NYSE: TU), Canada’s fastest-growing national telecommunications company, today announced the launch of the Stingray Music Videos TV app for TELUS Optik TV subscribers in British Columbia, Alberta and Quebec. The app provides free access at the touch of a button to 225 compilations curated by Stingray’s music experts and a selection of 10,000 music videos.

“The Stingray Music Videos TV app offers an exciting and user-friendly way for TELUS Optik TV customers to enjoy their favourite music videos, or discover new artists, whenever they want,” said Mathieu Péloquin, Senior Vice-President Marketing and Communications of Stingray. “TELUS is a longstanding partner that leads the industry with new ways to provide their customers with easy access to the content they are looking for. The Stingray Music Videos TV app is another example of the innovative and curated music products and services we provide Pay-TV providers worldwide, and we are delighted to be introducing this service to Canadian music lovers.”

“We’re all about making our customers’ entertainment experience better and simpler. Our customers love music, so we’ve made it easier for them to enjoy their favourite videos on Optik TV,” said Blair Miller, Vice-President of Content at TELUS. “The addition of the Stingray Music Videos app allows us to provide a much more holistic music offering on Optik TV. We’re committed to working with innovators like Stingray to continuously find new ways to offer our customers greater choice and control over their entertainment experience, whether it is their favourite TV show, movie, song or music video.”

In addition to a selection of thousands of music videos in every genre – with new content added as soon as it is available for broadcast – the Stingray Music Videos TV app offers curated themed playlists, such as Teen Pop and Hot Country as well as music videos from today’s hottest artists including The Weeknd, Taylor Swift and Beyoncé.

Access to the Stingray Music Videos TV app will be made available in a phased rollout to Optik TV customers over the coming weeks.

The Stingray Music Videos TV app can be accessed in Western Canada from channel 559, and in Quebec by selecting the remote’s apps button and then selecting Stingray Vidéoclips.

Features of the Stingray Music Videos TV App:

  • Navigate the home screen carousel to view the top music videos and playlists.
  • Browse by genre/content; videos/playlists; and artists.
  • Create/delete personalized playlists.
  • Access recently viewed music videos.
  • Control video playback with replay, pause, skip and shuffle commands.
  • Search for music videos and artists.
  • Browse music videos or playlists while the current selection is playing.
  • Watch music videos/playlists in full screen or picture in picture mode. Available screen saver mode.

For more information about Stingray Music Videos: www.stingray.com/entertainment/music-videos.

February 5, 2016

Stingray Wins “Best IR for an IPO” at the 2016 IR Magazine Awards – Canada

Stingray Digital Group Inc. (TSX: RAY.A; RAY.B), a leading business-to-business multi-platform music provider, was awarded “Best IR for an IPO” at the 2016 IR Magazine Awards – Canada held on February 4 at the Carlu in Toronto. Stingray was shortlisted in November 2015 along with Cara Operations, Seven Generations Energy and Tidewater Midstream and Infrastructure.

“We are thrilled to be recognized at the IR Magazine Awards – Canada for our dedication to quality investor relations services during our 2015 IPO,” said Mathieu Péloquin, Senior Vice-President, Marketing and Communications at Stingray. “It is an absolute honour to be acknowledged by the Canadian investor relations community in our first year as a publicly-traded company. We wish to thank IR Magazine and congratulate all other nominees and award winners.”

IR Magazine Awards – Canada is the country’s largest annual gathering of investor relations officers along with their senior management, advisers and analysts. Award nominees are selected by close to 300 Canadian analysts and portfolio managers.

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February 2, 2016

Skyjack Teams Up With CVTCORP

Linamar Corporation’s (TSX: LNR) Skyjack division recently launched their new TH telehandler range, showing a renewed commitment to providing the same return-on-investment
driven product to the telehandler market as they do for the aerial work platform (AWP) market.
As a further extension of that commitment, Skyjack is pleased to announce that it is partnering with Montreal based transmission company, CVTCORP, to develop a true mechanical continuously variable transmission (CVT) option for its TH-series telehandlers range.

“The possibilities that a mechanical CVT opens up for our new TH-series telehandler range are fairly exciting,” said Barry Greenaway, product manager, Skyjack. “Firstly, the mechanical CVT greatly increases efficiency over a hydrostatic system. It also allows the engine to stay in its ideal rpm range – resulting in significant fuel savings. What’s more, these benefits partner perfectly with our SMARTORQUETM 74hp engines, which already reduce fuel use, and will allow rental companies to reduce net costs to their customers without dropping rental rates.”

CVTCORP’s toroidal mechanical CVT transmits torque between curved traction discs using actuatedrollers, it eliminates metal on metal contact using a specially formulated traction fluid. This allows output speed to be varied across an infinite number of ratios throughout the operating range.

“With over 500,000 hours of cumulative testing performed both by us and OEM’s we have worked with —much of which at higher power levels than used by Skyjack’s TH range — we have a wealth of experience with our CVT design in equipment transmissions,” said Daniel Girard, founder and CEO of CVTCORP.

The transmission ensures that the machine is in the optimal ratio at all times, making machine operation easier than a comparable power-shift equipped unit – the operator only has to choose forward or reverse.

“Aside from the fuel savings, the nature of how our CVT works will result in real gains in terms of life cycle costs for equipment managers,” Greenaway said. “Another real benefit over power shift
transmissions is that the operator cannot abuse the drivetrain in the same way; the CVT smoothly ramps up for acceleration and deceleration with no shock loads from abrupt gear changes. In fact, the operator can shift into reverse while travelling at max forward speed with his foot firmly on the accelerator and the machine will smoothly decelerate and seamlessly transition into reverse.”
Skyjack and CVTCORP are currently carrying out internal testing using a SJ1056 TH telehandlers equipped with a CVTCORP transmission, with the aim to begin customer field trials of the optional CVT transmission in the fourth quarter of 2016.

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February 2, 2016

CVTCORP Enters the Construction Market with its Innovative Mechanical Continuously Variable Transmission with Skyjack at World of Concrete

CVTCORP, a worldwide leader in advanced engineering and the design and manufacture of mechanical continuously variable transmissions (mCVT), shared the stage with Skyjack to launch their joint participation in the development of a mechanical CVT solution for their new TH series of Telehandlers. This announcement marks the first commercial introduction of the EcoMec 150 mechanical CVT transmission in the construction industry.

“This collaboration with Skyjack is the first application of our new EcoMec 150 mechanical CVT that will give Skyjack users a new definition of power and improved operator control. Once an operator uses a Skyjack TH telehandler with our CVT transmission, the operator will see important gains in productivity due to the improved functionality of the telehandler”, said Daniel Girard, President and CEO of CVTCORP. “Operators will also see dramatic fuel and time savings using our CVT technology since it allows the operator greater power at lower engine rpm”. 

 

Brad Boehler, Linamar Skyjack Group President said, “Skyjack and CVTCORP have agreed a program to develop a continuously variable transmission solution for the TH series. From a Skyjack view point, this allows us to provide an innovative, yet proven, optional transmission that optimizes the telehandlers performance and lifespan. The infinite number of ratios provided by the transmission will enable the telehandlers to do more work with less fuel.”
“Combined with Skyjack’s SMARTORQUETM , it will bring unequalled efficiency in the market”, added Barry Greenaway, product manager for Skyjack. “When compared with a power-shift equipped unit, the CVT also makes machine operation easier and protects it from abrupt gear changes driveline abuse”. The SMARTORQUETM system is engineered so that it requires no diesel particulate filter, no diesel exhaust fluid and other active exhaust after treatment on standard engines for Tier 4 Final.

Daniel Girard concluded: “This is the first of a number of product launches with leading OEM’s.  In the near future, different configurations of the design you see at this introduction will be available for various off-highway and industrial applications.”

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January 19, 2016

Stingray to Release its Financial Results for the Third Quarter of Fiscal 2016

Stingray Digital Group Inc. (TSX: RAY.A; RAY.B) will release its financial results for the third quarter ended December 31, 2015, on Thursday, February 4, 2016, before the market opens. Management will hold a conference call to discuss the financial results the same day a 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time.

Details of the Conference Call

Via telephone: (877) 223-4471 or (647) 788-4922 Via the internet at www.stingray.com

Conference Call Rebroadcast

A rebroadcast of the conference call will be available until midnight, March 2, 2015, by dialing (800) 585-8367 or (416) 621-4642 and entering passcode 21626700.

The replay of the webcast will remain available on the website until midnight, March 2, 2015.

January 15, 2016

Stingray Music Introduces Vibes Channels in Latin America and the Caribbean

Stingray Digital Group Inc. (TSX: RAY.A; RAY.B), a leading business-to-business multi-platform music provider, today introduced in the Latin American and Caribbean markets an exciting new feature to its popular Stingray Music mobile app: Vibes channels. In addition to the Stingray Music channel line-up offered by their TV providers, music fans can now explore and enjoy 1,200 channels in close to 100 genres curated for every activity, mood and occasion.

Vibes channels are available on the FREE Stingray Music mobile app* through most major Latin-American and Caribbean Pay-TV providers such as Telefonica, DirectTV Latam, SKY Latam, Megacable, Claro TV and Flow/Colombus.

More than 200 Vibes channels have been created specially for the Latin-American and Carribean markets in genres as varied as bachata, salsa, reggaeton, villansicos, Brazilian gospel and regional Mexican. Users will enjoy a selection of music for every occasion such as Valentine’s Day, soccer games and Quinceañera celebrations.

“We are beyond thrilled to be introducing 1,200 free Vibes channels to our listeners in Latin America and the Caribbean,” said Gustavo Tonelli, Vice-President and General Manager of Stingray in Latin America. “Our objective when developing the Vibes channels was to give users the chance to dive into an infinite world of music where the perfect soundtrack for all of life’s occasions is always right at their fingertips. We are confident that the free Stingray Music mobile app with Vibes channels will quickly become essential to all music lovers.”

Vibes channels are carefully curated by 100 of the best music programmers from around the globe and offer crowd-pleasing and niche content selected to suit all tastes.

Each Vibes channel features a minimum of 150 tracks (up to 2000), broadcasts an average of 10 to 12 hours of music, and offers the best possible listening experience for all situations; whether you need energetic pop songs to motivate a workout, elegant jazz tracks to entertain friends or salsa beats to spice up your night.

Vibes channels allow subscribers to easily find the music they love, and discover new musical horizons, bycombining up to three filters in activity, mood, theme, era and genre categories. Each combination returns a tailored selection of corresponding channels to choose from, as well as additional suggestions that the user may also like.

SPECIAL FEATURES OF THE STINGRAY MUSIC MOBILE APP WITH VIBES CHANNELS

  • New channels added every month
  • Authenticate quickly with audio signal recognition
  • Simple interface and intuitive navigation
  • Combine filters in activity, mood, theme, era and genre categories
  • Get recommendations based on your listening history and preferences
  • New content added weekly
  • Search by artist, channel, keyword, etc.
  • Bookmark the music you love or share it on Facebook
  • Consult the list of the channel’s top tracks and those streamed in the past 24 hours
  • Discover what’s most popular and what’s new
  • Find songs on iTunes/Google Play

For additional information about Vibes channels and to download press material, please visitstingray.com/vibes/press

*The Stingray Music mobile app is available FREE with a subscription to a TV provider that offers the Stingray Music service and is available for download from the App Store and Google Play Store.

December 17, 2015

Stingray Acquires iConcerts

Stingray Digital Group Inc. (TSX: RAY. A; RAY B), a leading business-to-business multiplatform music provider, today announced that it has reached an agreement to acquire Swiss-based iConcerts, a TV channel dedicated solely to live music currently distributed to more than 100 Pay-TV and OTT operators in 85 countries and available to an estimated 250 million households across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle-East. Upon completion of the transaction, Stingray will be the world’s largest broadcaster of live music concerts on television, with access to the largest library of digital live music worldwide. The transaction is expected to add $5 million in annual revenues for Stingray.

With this transaction, Stingray firmly establishes a stronghold in the Asian market including distribution deals with CCTV in China, KT in Korea and StarHub in Singapore. IConcerts also has an important presence in Europe with providers Swisscom and Orange, and in Russia with Tricolor.

“Following the acquisitions completed over the last two quarters, the agreement with iConcerts further demonstrates our intent to provide our clients with the greatest variety of digital music products and services on the market,” said Eric Boyko, President, Co-founder and CEO of Stingray. “iConcerts’ live music concert library perfectly complements Stingray’s current offering (Stingray Concerts, Stingray Brava, and Stingray Djazz), allowing us to become the number one destination for exciting live performances on television.”

iConcerts was launched on June 21, 2006,and was operated by Transmedia Communication SA. iConcerts’ programming features the biggest stars of today and decades past and includes concerts, TV show, documentaries and interviews.

For more information about iConcerts: https://www3.iconcerts.com/

December 14, 2015

Stingray Digital Group Acquires Digital Music Distribution PTY. LTD., A Major Player In Australia’s Media Industry

Stingray Digital Group Inc. (TSX: RAY. A; RAY B), a leading business-to-business multiplatform music provider, today announced that it entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Digital Music Distribution Pty. Ltd. (DMD), Australia’s most important digital music services provider. The transaction was facilitated by Singapore-based Multi Channels Asia (MCA) with which Stingray recently entered into a strategic partnership. This acquisition is expected to provide Stingray with a strategic foothold in the Asia-Pacific region.

This acquisition is aligned with Stingray’s strategy to expand its international presence and to offer a complete portfolio of music products and services across all platforms. The all-cash AUD $12 million transaction includes an amount equivalent to 66% payable to DMD upon the closing of the purchase and a 34% holdback to be released upon the completion of various post-sale requirements by Stingray.

“Stingray has a track record of acquiring established, dynamic and creative companies – Digital Music Distribution is no exception,” said Eric Boyko, President, Co-founder and CEO of Stingray. “Considering the untapped potential of digital television in Australia, the acquisition of DMD holds enormous potential. This transaction provides us an exciting opportunity to enter the Australian market with a comprehensive product line and to accelerate our growth in Asia-Pacific. We look forward to building long-lasting and mutually beneficial relationships with all clients currently served by DMD.”

DMD provides digital music services to the public, broadcasters and other media suppliers as well as brand partners. DMD offers linear, subscription and brand promotion services across a wide range of music catalogues from leading major and independent record labels. DMD currently operates 29 audio television channels for Foxtel, the country’s largest Pay-TV provider.

Following the completion of the transaction, DMD’s audio television channels will be integrated under the Stingray brand.

November 25, 2015

Stingray’s Djazz.tv Channel Now Available on the Freebox

Stingray Digital Group Inc. (TSX: RAY. A; RAY B.), a leading business-to-business multiplatform music provider, today announced that its Djazz.tv television channel is now available in HD on the Freebox (a triple-play set-top box for voice, video, and data) of French Pay-TV provider Free.

Djazz.tv is included in the Freebox’s basic package at position 77. The French version of DJAZZ.tv offers varied international and French programming. This integration represents a new phase of expansion for the Dutch channel, launched in 2012 on CANALSAT, which has seen an increase in its international distribution since the recent acquisition by Stingray. At the time of the transaction, DJazz.tv was distributed in 42 countries in Europe, Africa, and the Caribbean.

The Importance of France for DJazz.tv

Since its launch in 2012, Djazz.tv has earned widespread acclaim in France where jazz is more popular than anywhere else in Europe. The channel’s programming is therefore oriented towards French content and presents performances filmed at the most renowned jazz clubs and festivals such as the New Morning Jazz Club, the Casino de Paris and Lyons’ Hot Club. The programming also focuses on French events such as the Fête de la Musique. For several years now, DJazz.tv cameras have been present at international festivals such as Jazz à Vienne, Nancy Jazz Pulsations and Jazz en Baie where they have filmed more than 250 interviews with some of jazz’s biggest names. DJazz.tv has its own premises in Paris and develops alliances and partnership from a first regional hub (Rhône-Alpes) region). For more information about DJazz.tv, please visit www.djazzfr.tv.

DJAZZ.tv: Living the World of Jazz

Developed under the motto “Living the World of Jazz”, Djazz’s programming is fully dedicated to jazz and related genres. The programing includes all jazz genres including world music, tango, reggae, soul, gospel, funk and blues. The channel is a mix of performances filmed at jazz festivals, in clubs, in studios and at concerts, and of music documentaries. The channel is broadcast in 100% HD and 100% Dolby Digital Audio.

About Stingray

Stingray (TSX: RAY.A; RAY.B) is a leading business-to-business multi-platform music and in-store media solutions provider operating on a global scale, reaching an estimated 135 million Pay-TV subscribers (or households) in 127 countries. Geared towards individuals and businesses alike, Stingray’s products include the following leading digital music and video services: Stingray Music, Stingray Concerts, Stingray Brava, Stingray Djazz, Stingray Music Videos, Stingray Lite TV, Stingray Ambiance and Stingray Karaoke. Stingray also offers various business solutions, including music and digital display-based solutions through its Stingray Business division. Stingray is headquartered in Montreal and currently has over 250 employees across the world, including in Toronto, Miami, London, Amsterdam and Tel Aviv. Stingray was recognized in 2013 and 2014 as a finalist in the Top 50 of Deloitte’s Technology Fast 50TM list, and figures amongst PROFIT magazine’s fastest-growing Canadian companies. For more information, please visit www.stingray.com.

About Free

Free, a subsidiary of the Iliad Group, is the inventor of the Freebox, the first high-speed, multi-service set-top box.  Free is the source of numerous innovations on the broadband market (VoIP, IPTV, packaging of calls to many destinations). Free offers simple and innovative services at the best price.  The Freebox revolution began at the end of 2010 with the 6th generation Freebox, which integrated a NAS and a Blu-ray. Free was the first high-speed provider to include calls from landlines to mobile phones as well as calls towards DOMs.  Since January 2012, Free has democratized the use of mobile devices with streamlined offers, without commitments and at very attractive prices.  Free has more than 17 million subscribers (including 6 million subscribers to the high-speed and very high-speed services and 11 million mobile subscribers as of September 30, 2015.)

Freebox R offer and television service accessible subject to eligibility, to a subscription to the Freebox TV (1, 99€/month), to necessary internet speed, to the possession of necessary equipment and to accessories compatible with HD. Conditions at www.free.fr

November 23, 2015

Stingray Announces the Appointment of Tom Pentefountas as Senior Vice-President Sales, EMEA and Asia

Stingray Digital Group Inc., (TSX: RAY.A; RAY.B), a leading business-to-business multi-platform music and in-store media solutions provider, today announced the appointment of Tom Pentefountas as Senior Vice-President Sales, EMEA (Europe, the Middle East and Africa) and Asia. Mr. Pentefountas brings to Stingray a wide-ranging global experience in broadcasting, having most recently held the position of Vice-Chairman, Broadcasting of the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC). He will join Stingray on November 30, 2015 and will work from its London office.

In his new position, Mr. Pentefountas will oversee international sales development and will forge relationships with sales agents and TV operators in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia. His in-depth understanding of the broadcasting industry, his business and legal acumen as well as his passions for international travel and culture will be great additions to Stingray’s management team and will support the company’s global growth initiatives.

“We are thrilled to welcome Tom as part of Stingray’s management team as he brings extensive experience and expertise in the media and entertainment industry,” said Eric Boyko, President, Co-founder and CEO of Stingray. “His reputation and exceptional track record are second to none and will play a crucial role in our drive for global expansion. His leadership style, strategic vision and ability to understand the ever evolving complexity of the television industry worldwide will make him a great addition to our team.”

“This is an exciting time to be joining Stingray,” declared Tom Pentefountas. “Stingray is uniquely positioned for international growth thanks to its partnerships with some of the biggest players in the industry, an impressive range of products and innovative technologies. I look forward to working closely with Stingray’s European employees and executives in the development of strategies that build on these strengths.”

November 20, 2015

Stingray Provides Cutting-Edge Digital Innovations to a New Generation of Sports Experts Stores

Stingray (TSX: RAY.A; RAY.B), a leading business-to-business multi-platform music and in-store media solutions provider, today announced that is has completed the pioneering project of converting a Sports Experts store in Laval, Quebec and another in Ste-Foy, Quebec into hubs of digital innovations.

Stingray, through Stingray Business, its in-store media solutions division, was given the mandate of transforming the customer experience in both Sports Experts locations with cutting-edge content and technologies including:

  • Tactile display cubes with transparent screens
  • Synchronized multi-screens videowalls
  • Shoe display cases with RFID chips (in collaboration with Orkestra)
  • Ringboard LED screen (a Quebec-first in a retail environment)
  • Tablets for each sales representatives

“We are excited to reach another milestone in our plan to become the leader in the field of in-store music and digital experiences for businesses,” said Pierre Gendron, Stingray Business, Digital Experience Group Vice-President . “The objective of this digital makeover is to evoke the same powerful emotions  customers get from sports and outdoor activities. It was a pleasure working closely with the Sports Experts team, finding ways to engage customers through the use of innovative technologies and original content.The end result truly represents our vision for the store of the future.”

“Thanks to leading digital technologies, an unrivaled line-up of premiere brands and a personalized shopping experience that connects customers to the sports they love, our Carrefour Laval and Ste-Foy Sports Experts stores are amongst of the most innovative retail spaces in Quebec,” said Jean-Stéphane Tremblay, Executive Vice-President of FGL Sports.

With the acquisition in February 2015 of Groupe Viva, a key player in digital signage solutions for businesses throughout Canada, Stingray has added a range of digital signage solutions for businesses to its offering, which now includes LCD, LED, projection, transparent LCDs, interactive or static screens, mobile devices and more.

Stingray Business’ recent projects span a range of industries such as retail, restaurants and hospitality. Stingray Business has recently complete digital signage projects for Olivier Ford, Videotron and Molson Coors. For more information: http://business.stingray.com/digital-experiences