STV Group plc

STV Group plc is a Scottish commercial public service broadcaster, digital media business and television-production group. Its operational heritage dates to Scottish Television’s first transmission in 1957, while the present public company operates from its Glasgow base and is listed on the London Stock Exchange as STVG.

The group combines audience, advertising and production operations. STV Audience operates the STV Central and STV North Channel 3 licences, while STV Player provides free streaming across linear, catch-up and third-party programming. STV Commercial sells television and digital advertising around these services, including through a long-term commercial partnership with ITV.

Production network

STV Studios is the group’s television-production division, led by CEO David Mortimer. Its work spans scripted drama, factual and documentary programming, daytime and primetime entertainment, panel shows and game formats. The division develops, finances, produces and post-produces programmes, while also licensing formats and international rights.

The studio network has expanded through investment and acquisitions. In July 2023, STV Studios acquired Greenbird Media, adding a network of independent production companies. It subsequently took a controlling stake in Belfast drama producer Two Cities Television in January 2024 and majority control of Glasgow-based unscripted producer Hello Halo in August 2024. These investments complement STV Studios’ established production activities and its wider network of specialist labels.

Screen work

The group’s production history includes scripted titles such as Screw, The Witness, Elizabeth Is Missing, The Victim, Taggart and Take the High Road. Entertainment and factual output includes Catchphrase, Bridge of Lies, Antiques Road Trip, Celebrity Antiques Road Trip, The Yorkshire Auction House and The Travelling Auctioneers.

Across broadcasting, streaming, advertising and production, STV Group serves audiences in Scotland while distributing and licensing content to UK and international partners.