STV (TV channel)

STV (TV channel)
source
Name	STV
Country	Scotland
Network	STV Group
Owner	STV Group
Launch date	31 August 1957
Picture format	1080i HDTV
Former names	Scottish Television (1957–2006)
Website	https://www.stv.tv/

STV (TV channel). STV is the principal Freeview channel for central and northern Scotland, operated by the STV Group. It functions as the ITV network franchise for these regions, providing a mix of networked programming and distinctive Scottish content. The channel has evolved from its launch as Scottish Television to become a key broadcaster in the Scottish media landscape.

History

The channel launched on 31 August 1957 as Scottish Television, serving the central Scotland franchise. It was founded by Canadian-born businessman Roy Thomson, who famously described the license as a "license to print money." The station initially broadcast from its studios at the Theatre Royal in Glasgow. In 2006, following a major rebranding initiative by parent company SMG plc, the on-air identity was changed from Scottish Television to STV. This period also saw significant changes in the franchise map, with STV taking over the North of Scotland licence from Grampian Television in 2006, uniting the two services under the STV brand. The channel has navigated various disputes with ITV plc over network programming contributions and schedule deviations, asserting its editorial independence.

Programming

STV's schedule combines programming from the ITV network with its own commissioned productions. Key network shows include major dramas like *Vigil* and entertainment formats such as I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!. Its flagship Scottish news programme is STV News at Six, produced from its headquarters in Pacific Quay, Glasgow. The channel is also known for original documentaries like Scotland's Home of the Year and investigative series such as STV Investigates. Historically, it has produced popular local programming including the long-running religious magazine *Highway* and the comedy show Only an Excuse?.

Availability

STV is broadcast terrestrially via the Freeview platform on channel 3 throughout its licence area, which covers central and northern Scotland. It is also available on satellite through Sky UK and on cable via Virgin Media. The channel operates a high-definition simulcast, STV HD, on these platforms. Viewers in southern Scotland, part of the ITV Border franchise, receive ITV1 Border instead. STV content is accessible online and on-demand through the STV Player, which also offers a live stream of the channel.

Identity and branding

The channel's original identity, Scottish Television, used a stylised thistle logo and the famous "tartan triangle" idents. The 2006 rebrand to STV introduced a modern, minimalist logo and a suite of idents featuring iconic Scottish landscapes and landmarks, such as the Forth Bridge and Glenfinnan Viaduct. A major refresh in 2014, developed with creative agency The Partners, emphasised the strapline "Scotland's TV" and used vibrant, colourful graphics. The current branding continues to highlight Scottish identity, distinguishing it from the ITV network's look in other regions.

Management and operations

The channel is operated by the STV Group, a publicly listed company on the London Stock Exchange. Key leadership has included Chief Executives such as Rob Woodward and, more recently, Simon Pitts. Its main production and news headquarters are located at STV Studios in Pacific Quay, Glasgow, with additional news centres in Aberdeen and Dundee. The company's operations are regulated by Ofcom under the terms of its ITV licence. STV also runs a separate STV2 channel service and has a growing content production arm, STV Studios, which produces shows for other broadcasters including the BBC.

Audience and reception

STV consistently ranks as one of the most-watched channels in Scotland, with its news programmes often outperforming BBC Scotland's offerings in the region. It has received praise for its investment in Scottish programming and journalism, winning awards from the Royal Television Society. However, the channel has faced criticism during past disputes with ITV plc, when it opted out of network programmes like *Lewis*, leading to viewer complaints. Audience appreciation is measured by BARB, and the channel's digital expansion through the STV Player has broadened its reach, particularly among younger demographics.

Category:Television channels in Scotland Category:ITV franchisees Category:1957 establishments in Scotland