TVN to run three Scripps channels from 2017

TVN will take charge of three local versions of the Scripps Networks Interactive channel brands HGTV, Food Network and Travel Channel from January 2017.

The move will see Scripps-owned TVN launch the HGTV and Food Network channels as part of its line-up, while the already-available Travel Channel will come under its management.

HGTV (Home and Garden TV) will replace existing channel TVN Meteo Active and will mark Scripps’ first European launch for HGTV as part of its wider expansion plans for the network.

Polsat Food will be rebranded as Food Network and will continue to air popular shows such as Ewa Gotuje (Ewa in the Kitchen) and Gotowanie z Okrasą (Cooking with Okrasa).

“These channels are a perfect fit to TVN’s existing portfolio,” said Maciej Maciejowski, business development and new media division director, TVN.

“Thanks to HGTV, Food Network and Travel Channel, TVN will strengthen its lifestyle offering with outstanding channels, that can answer the needs of even the most demanding viewers.”

In an interview with DTVE, published earlier this month, Jim Samples, president, international, Scripps Networks Interactive, described the rollout of HGTV around the world as a  “key priority”.

“This year, we launched HGTV in New Zealand and expanded the channel’s distribution across Asia. We are anticipating launches in the Middle East, North Africa and Poland in the coming months,” he said.

Scripps closed its acquisition of a majority stake in Polish commercial broadcaster TVN from ITI and Canal+ Group last July. The company acquired a 52.7% stake in the broadcaster for €584 million.