A+E Networks Acquires NBCU Stake in German Joint Venture

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A+E Networks said it will acquire full ownership of A+E Networks Germany by buying out its partner in the joint venture, NBCUniversal International.

A+E Networks Germany operates History and A+E in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Luxembourg, Alto Adige and Liechtenstein.

Financial details were not disclosed. A+E and NBCU have been partners for 12 years. The transaction is subject to regulatory approval.

“We are incredibly proud of the success we have achieved with our partner NBCUniversal International since 2005,” said Sean Cohan, president of international and digital for A+E Networks. “With powerful brands, HISTORY and A&E, and a talented local team, we look forward to building on that success with strategic investment in local programming and new linear and digital services to grow our audiences in one of the world’s largest media markets.”

A+E has been looking to increase its ownership of its international operations. It owns all or a majority of its operations in Southeast Asia, Italy and Japan. It is launching an outlet in Korea in the fall.

NBCUI will continue to provide key services to A+E Networks in German-speaking Europe over the coming years

Jon Lafayette
Jon Lafayette

Jon has been business editor of Broadcasting+Cable since 2010. He focuses on revenue-generating activities, including advertising and distribution, as well as executive intrigue and merger and acquisition activity. Just about any story is fair game, if a dollar sign can make its way into the article. Before B+C, Jon covered the industry for TVWeek, Cable World, Electronic Media, Advertising Age and The New York Post. A native New Yorker, Jon is hiding in plain sight in the suburbs of Chicago.