Scripps Networks Interactive Inc. (SNI) has undertaken several initiatives to explore international opportunities. The company’s flagship lifestyle TV channel “Fine Living Network” (FLN) will be available in South Africa from May 1, 2010. This is part of management strategy to expand FLN in the EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) regions. From April 1st, this TV channel will be available in 60 countries in this region.
 
Scripps Network has decided to re-brand its Fine Living Network (FLN) as a Cooking Channel. The re-branding process is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2010. FLN currently reaches over 55 million households. The new channel will be a 24-hour network that will focus on food information and instructional cooking program. Offered in both standard and high definition, the new network will launch with a video-on-demand offering and a fully interactive Internet broadband platform. 

Chello Zone, a division of Liberty Global Inc. (LBTYA) will be responsible for the global distribution of FLN. In late 2009, Scripps Networks entered into a joint venture with Chello Zone to distribute some of its flagship TV channels like FLN and Food Network in the EMEA regions. 

Earlier this month, Scripps Networks entered into an outsourcing deal with London-based Passion Distribution to provide global programming license for its TV channels like Food Network, HGTV and DIY Network to third party entertainment channels throughout the world. 

As a diversification strategy, Scripps Networks purchased a 69% stake in NDTV Group’s lifestyle programming subsidiary, NDTV Lifestyle for a total consideration of $55 million. NDTV is India’s first and largest private producer of news, current affairs and entertainment television. NDTV Lifestyle is anchored by NDTV Good Times, India’s top-ranked English-language lifestyle television channel. NDTV Good Times provides programs on lifestyle which includes food, travel, fashion and style. 

Industry sources have indicated that Scripps Networks is also considering establishing a TV production facility in India. The low cost Indian market will help the company to profitably expand in other parts of Asia and Europe.
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