Netherlands Public Broadcasting (NPO) has signed a six-year radio services contract extension with Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC). The contract covers six public radio stations and NPO has the option of extending the agreement. Starting in 2015, Ericsson will coordinate and manage playout for the six radio stations while prioritizing quality, continuity, efficiency and innovation.

Ericsson will assume responsibility for operation and monitoring of the central playout facility and the master control room for contribution and distribution in Hilversum, the Netherlands. The services to be provided include support and coordination for production personnel as well as support, management and maintenance of systems. In addition, Ericsson will provide expertise, project management, supply chain management and systems integration. In total, NPO estimates that Ericsson will provide 50,000 hours of services annually.

Thorsten Sauer, Head of Broadcast and Media Services at Ericsson, says: "NPO is a respected public broadcaster with a long history and we're honored that they have decided to continue working with us. Together we will ensure that NPO's listeners can enjoy radio programs that are delivered to a consistently high standard."

Cees de Bruin, Director of Distribution, Technology & Broadcast at NPO, says: "Ericsson is a trusted partner and their broadcast and media service business provides the combination of scale and skills that we need. Our listeners are our priority and Ericsson provides the technical expertise that allows us to focus on producing great content."

Ericsson will provide all of the services that make it possible to broadcast and distribute recorded and live radio programs on NPO's Radio 1, Radio 2, 3FM, Radio 4, Radio 5 and Radio 6 stations. The radio programs are produced in 11 studios and the central playout facility in Hilversum, which will be supported by Ericsson employees.

Source: ERICSSON