VNR and SMT production companies are responding to a slow market and erratic news environment by beefing up their offerings. DS Simon
Productions has initiated a broadcast PR protection plan to safeguard against unexpected newscast interruptions that might affect the placement of a client's VNR or SMT. The
plan includes a full refund if an SMT is pre-empted by breaking news. In a similar effort, TVN Communications Group debuts "Consumer Trend Report" and "Consumer Update," programs
distributed to network affiliates and PBS stations, comprised of client VNRs and b-roll. TVN guarantees the programs will get at least 150 station airings and a minimum audience
of 8 million viewers.
(DS Simon: Eric Wright, 212/736-2727; TVN: 212/889-2323)