08/05/2006

May 8, 2006: Rolls-Royce plc license technology to and make key investment in Mezzo Movies Ltd

Mezzo Movies has added Rolls-Royce plc to its list of shareholders after the global power systems company licensed some of its performance monitoring technology to the UK-based provider of innovative hand-held passenger entertainment services for the transportation and leisure markets.

Millions of people everyday are travelling somewhere and are demanding to be entertained.  Mezzo Movies provides these customers with an exciting content choice from blockbuster Hollywood movies, latest hit TV shows, music, games and interactive services – delivered into the palm of their hands.

The Rolls-Royce performance monitoring technology will be used by Mezzo Movies to manage both the hardware and software components of its delivery package.  It is expected that the technology could drive future developments in design – to improve asset utilisation and integrity and reduce cost.

David Sampson, Mezzo Movies CEO, said: "The involvement of Rolls-Royce as investor and partner in this venture provides a springboard from which to grow our business, and its technology will allow us to develop the package to bring a low-cost and competitive, yet compelling and exciting product to market for passengers in the future."

“We have worked hard over the last 12 months to create a totally new approach to in-flight entertainment, and have been encouraged by the response of airlines.” 

"Following a successful proof-of-concept trial in 2005 with easyJet, Europe's leading low-fares airline, Mezzo Movies is now working with a number of major airlines around the world to provide hand-held in-flight entertainment solutions in time for this summer season."

“We can quickly step in when installed In Flight Entertainment systems fail, by replacing it with our service.  We can provide real added value to low cost and charter airlines by providing passengers with a flexible bespoke service.”

“With fuel prices putting pressure on ticket prices, any service an airline can provide that sets it apart from its competitors is vital – and we believe the Mezzo product will excite passengers and, so, allow airlines to generate extra profit from the first day,” added Mr Sampson.

The company is also in discussion with a number of consumer-facing organisations that are seeking to generate significant business growth from the burgeoning digital entertainment technology industry – or those that simply wish to ensure their customers have the most entertaining experience.

Note to editors

1. Mezzo Movies was established in 2004 to offer innovative entertainment solutions for customer-facing businesses in the travel and leisure markets.
2. The Mezzo team has an extensive experience in digital media technology, content management and a retail pedigree dedicated to delighting customers.
3. Rolls-Royce operates in four global markets - civil aerospace, defense aerospace, marine and energy.
4. Rolls-Royce has a broad customer base comprising more than 500 airlines, 4,000 corporate and utility aircraft and helicopter operators, 160 armed forces and more than 2,000 marine customers, including 50 navies. The company has energy customers in nearly 120 countries. Rolls-Royce employs around 35,000 people, including 8,000 in North America.