The UK’s Channel 4 has acquired full ownership of The Box Plus Network, which produces and broadcasts seven UK music and entertainment channels.
Channel 4 has bought the remaining 50% stake in the network that it did not previously own from Bauer Media Group.
Since 2007, Channel 4 has owned a 50% stake in The Box Plus Network, which operates the music channels 4Music, The Box, Box Upfront, Box Hits, Kiss, Magic and Kerrang.
According to Channel 4, acquiring full ownership of the network will enable it ‘to increase value across The Box Plus Network and the wider Channel 4 portfolio’.
KISS, Magic and Kerrang!, which are Bauer Media-owned brands, will continue to be licensed to the network.
“This acquisition forms part of our wider strategy to enhance engagement with youth audiences.”
Keith Underwood, Channel 4
Keith Underwood, Chief Operating Officer of Channel 4 and Board Member of the Box Plus Network, said: “This transaction brings the UK’s largest and most-watched music television network fully into the Channel 4 family.
“As part of a broader channel portfolio, we will work with the management team of the Box Plus Network to amplify the value of the assets acquired.
“This acquisition forms part of our wider strategy to enhance engagement with youth audiences.”
“Channel 4 are best placed to realise the full potential of the Box Plus Network.”
Paul Keenan, Bauer UK
Paul Keenan, CEO Bauer UK and European Radio said: “Channel 4 are best placed to realise the full potential of the Box Plus Network as 4Music increasingly moves towards broader, entertainment and long form programming.
“We will continue to licence our music brands KISS, Magic and Kerrang! to the Box and would like to thank Matt Rennie and his talented team at Box for great work and give our best wishes for the future”.Music Business Worldwide