Channel 4 Radio Moves Closer With Oneword Acquisition
Channel 4 has signed an agreement with UBC Media to acquire the majority stake in Oneword, the company’s speech-based digital radio station, making further progress towards the creation of a Channel 4-led radio operation to compete directly with BBC Radio 4.
The deal gives Channel 4 control over the station, broadcasting nationally via the Digital One multiplex, as well as via BSkyB, Freeview and cable.
A deal between UBC and Channel 4 has been expected since the companies confirmed last year that they were to join forces, with UBC revealing that its work with Channel 4, as well as third party companies, would be to explore ‘the potential of using Oneword as a transmission platform for a Channel 4 radio station’. It was also revealed that UBC will have a hand in developing programme ideas and creative plans for the new station.
However, Andy Duncan, chief executive of Channel 4, stated that there were on immediate plans to rebrand Oneword, stating: “Oneword is an award-winning digital radio station performing strongly in a growing industry and we are excited to be acquiring a majority stake. However, we have no plans to rebrand Oneword or develop existing Channel 4 formats for broadcast on radio at present.”
He added: “As we move towards a fully digital and converged world, we are actively exploring opportunities that exist across all digital platforms and UBC Media will be a valuable partner to help us further explore the radio sector.”
The move is the latest expansion by Channel 4, which looks to be eagerly acquiring properties in order to secure its position in a multi-channel future. Last year saw the broadcaster explore merger possibilities with Five, and although these were ultimately fruitless there have been several similar indications of the broadcasters intentions since (see Channel 4 Walks Out On Merger Talks With Five).
One such expansion possibility is the launch of new channels on the Freeview platform. Last week saw the broadcaster reveal its capacity for four channels on the service, meaning that even with Channel 4 and the forthcoming More4 the broadcaster has space to bring in two more, one of which, speculation suggests, could be premium entertainment offering, E4 (see Channel 4 Bets On Drama For Spring Schedule). More4, meanwhile, is slated for launch in October this year (see Channel 4 Sets Autumn Date For More4 Launch).
The broadcaster is also locked in a bidding war against ITV for Crown Castle’s broadcast space on Freeview, allowing further digital launches (see ITV To Face Channel 4 Over Empty Freeview Slot). Elsewhere, Channel 4 has announced plans to launch an online-only documentaries channel, expanding on its broadband operations to provide subscription-only IPTV style content (see Channel 4 Plans Online Documentary Channel).
Channel Four: 020 7396 4444 www.channel4.com
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