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ESL and Azubu announce two year global eSports partnershipESL and Azubu announce two year global eSports partnership

"As eSports continue to grow, it becomes increasingly important for us to partner with the best platforms to provide access to our events as well as more value to brands who want to reach those audiences."

Chris Kerr, News Editor

March 11, 2016

1 Min Read
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Leading eSports organizer ESL has entered into a two year partnership with eSports streaming service, Azubu. 

In exchange for joining ESL's roster of streaming partners, Azubu will be provided with exclusive content and marketing collaborations, including licensing, distribution and sales representation

Although the terms of the deal are being kept under wraps, ESL has confirmed that Azubu will become a non-exclusive streaming partner at ESL events such as ESL One, IEM and ESL Pro League.

The arrangement will also see ESL's 4 Media Network become the sole sales representative for Azubu in Europe, handling advertising packages and global brand relationships.

Last year Azubu raised $59 million dollars to, in the words of company CEO Ian Sharpe, take on Twitch by creating the "most monetizable streaming experience."

In a later interview the CEO reiterated that point, explaining that sponsors and advertisers need to start seeing "measurable" returns if the eSports industry wants to continue growing - a sentiment that appears to be shared by ESL.

“As eSports continue to grow […] it becomes increasingly important for us to partner with the best platforms to provide access to our events as well as more value to brands who want to reach those audiences,” said Nik Adams, SVP of sales and business development at ESL. 

“Azubu’s reach, user experience and passionate dedication to the eSports lifestyle are second to none."

About the Author

Chris Kerr

News Editor, GameDeveloper.com

Game Developer news editor Chris Kerr is an award-winning journalist and reporter with over a decade of experience in the game industry. His byline has appeared in notable print and digital publications including Edge, Stuff, Wireframe, International Business Times, and PocketGamer.biz. Throughout his career, Chris has covered major industry events including GDC, PAX Australia, Gamescom, Paris Games Week, and Develop Brighton. He has featured on the judging panel at The Develop Star Awards on multiple occasions and appeared on BBC Radio 5 Live to discuss breaking news.

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