Now that UTV, a broadcasting and new media company in Belfast, is going to be acquired by ITV, STV will be the only remaining independent ITV regional broadcaster.
The chief executive of ITV, which is England’s largest free-to-air commercial broadcaster, said that UTV’s strategic objectives are closely aligned with ITV’s own objectives and the company is pleased that UTV will be joining the ITV family.
Shareholders are expected to approve of the ITV and UTV deal in November. UTV Media’s building in Belfast will transfer to ITV.
However, the deal excludes UTV Media’s radio businesses — UTV Radio GB and UTV Radio Ireland — and its digital media businesses, Simply Zesty and Tibus Digital.
Richard Huntingford, the chairman of UTV, said the sale of UTV to ITV was the best way to maximize shareholder value in the consolidating world of television.
John McAnn, group CEO of UTV Media, said that becoming part of the ITV family is the best way to take UTV’s Television business forward with a continuing focus on bringing quality television to consumers across Ireland.
