ESPN HD, ESPN2 HD Check In with LodgeNet

LodgeNet Entertainment Corp. will distribute ESPN HD and ESPN2 HD to hotel rooms through its “sigNETure HDTV” systems following a pact between the provider of interactive-television and broadband solutions to hotels and the programmer.

LodgeNet’s HD lineup already features programming from Home Box Office’s HBO HD and HDNet, as well as on-demand fare, movies that are still in theaters and locally available off-air broadcast programming.

“Sports is among the most desired types of in-room entertainment and can be a totally absorbing experience when enjoyed with the crystal-clear picture, wide-screen format and premium sound of HDTV,” LodgeNet CEO Scott C. Petersen said in a prepared statement.

“Our new agreement with ESPN adds a critical piece to the high-definition-content puzzle by allowing hoteliers to wow their guests with high-definition sports beyond what may be available on their local broadcast channels,” he added.

LodgeNet provides service to more than 1 million guest rooms and serves more than 6,000 hotel properties worldwide.