Scripps Networks Interactive officials confirmed recent reports that Travel Channel's headquarters will be moving from Chevy Chase, Md., to SNI's home base in Knoxville, Tenn. Reports in local media including this outlet have indicated that as many as 100 jobs could be involved with the move. Existing Travel Channel employees have been offered the opportunity to relocate to Knoxville, a Scripps representative said, though specific numbers have not been released. Some functions will remain in Chevy Chase, including government affairs, digital and legal staffers. The moves are said to be taking place over the next four to six months.
“As part of our ongoing work to transform Travel Channel into one of the leading entertainment brands in the United States and around the world, we are moving the network to Scripps Networks Interactive’s headquarters in Knoxville, Tenn. This shift will enable Travel Channel to benefit from much deeper resources as we look to further grow reach and audience share,” the network said in a statement from chief communications officer Dylan Jones.
Travel Channel, launched in 1987, is majority owned and controlled by SNI. Former owner Cox Communications sold 65% to Scripps in 2009 for about $1 billion and retained the rest. it has about 89 million subscribers. About two years ago, Scripps Networks consolidated GAC operations in Knoxville, leaving a building in Nashville that now is occupied by RFD-TV parent Rural Media Group.
