A contract for the broadcasting of matches from the Premier Division abroad was closed
between the KNVB and ISC (International Sports Consultancy), which runs until July 1,
1999.
The rights with regard to live and integral broadcasting of Dutch league matches are
exploited by the individual clubs. With regard to this, Ajax has entered into a so-called
memorandum of understanding with Canal+, on the basis of which Canal+ currently
realises live and integral broadcasting of Ajax matches. The final agreement with an
expected term of up to the year 2001/2002 is being prepared.
The arrangement realised through the KNVB with regard to the distribution of income from
television rights between the clubs playing in the Premier Division and with the clubs from
the First Division run until July 1, 1999. Agreement has been reached within ENV with
regard to the distribution of income from television rights from live and integral matches
between Premier Division clubs after July 1, 1999. The distribution is based on clubs'
position in the table and leads to a distribution ratio whereby the highest-placed club
receives approximately three times as much as the lowest placed club. Negotiations with
the First Division regarding the transfer of part of the media funds from the Premier
Division to the First Division, as well as with the KNVB regarding the payments to the
amateur section of the KNVB, are currently being held.
An application has been made for an exemption from the stipulations of the 'Besluit
Horizontale Prijsbinding' for the co-operation arrangement between clubs within ENV,
insofar as this concerns the exploitation of television rights (ENV acts as co-ordinator for
the individual member clubs and an arrangement has been reached regarding the
distribution of revenues).
With regard to broadcasts and highlights of Amstel Cup matches, the KNVB has entered
into a contract with SBS 6. This contract runs until July 1, 1999
The exploitation of television rights with regard to matches in European competitions
differs per competition.
The television rights for the Champions League are collectively exploited by UEFA.
Agreement with this collective exploitation and agreement with the distribution of
revenues as established by UEFA is a condition for participation in the Champions League.
Possible measures against this collective exploitation within the framework of competition
law by European competition authorities could result in reduced revenues from television
rights from this competition for clubs with a relatively small home market.
The television rights for the matches in the European Cup Winners Cup and the UEFA Cup
are sold by the clubs themselves. For these matches, Ajax has entered into an agreement
with the NOS which runs until July 31, 2003.
The Company has entered into a cooperation agreement for its audio-visual activities with
TV producer IDTV. This concerns the development and exploitation of the 'Stadium Journal'
and television programmes, mainly for foreign broadcasters.
Merchandising
The merchandising activities have been grouped under various group companies of the
Company. Merchandising the collection of activities including the exploitation of products
which are associated with Ajax. These include the clubcolours, the shirt and the Ajax name
and logo. Ajax is currently confronted with a small home market, while the Board of
Directors believes that the name, brand and logo of Ajax are famous throughout the world.
There are currently more than 400 products for sale, varying from souvenirs and gadgets
to clothing, cosmetics, household articles and foods. The diversity in these products, as
well as their price range, is considerable.
Within the merchandising policy, the product range policy and improving and expanding
the distribution network have priority.