Time Warner Cable

Posted on October 28, 2013 by Timothy Wright

By Tim Wright

-Time Warner Cable Logo. Image Courtesy “Lazy Tech Guys” [17]

Time Warner Cable, Inc.

1 Time Warner Center
New York, NY 10019-8016
212-484-8000

About the Company

Time Warner Cable, Inc. is a media company providing cable, phone, and Internet services to 29 states and over 15 million customers. These services are provided in different packages with arrangements of the cable, phone, and Internet services in different price tiers. Time Warner Cable, Inc. provides its services to both homes and institutions [1].

Cable
Time Warner Cable, Inc. distributes a number of television plans and packages, spanning from basic with 20 channels to digital with over 200 channels. Certain packages offer Digital Video Recording services and pay subscription services such as HBO. Pricing varies for the packages depending on the number of channels and services [2].

Internet
Time Warner Cable, Inc. offers Internet services that span from 2Mbps to 50Mbps, allowing a range of basic Internet usage to plans that can accommodate large homes with multiple Internet-ready devices [3].

Phone
Time Warner Cable, Inc. offers a number of voice packages. An unlimited domestic plan is offered for a monthly rate, as well as basic and premium international plans [4].

Key Executives [5]

-Glenn A. Britt
Courtesy of Time Warner Cable [18].

Glenn A. Britt
Chairman & CEO

-Robert D. Marcus
Courtesty of Time Warner Cable [19].

Robert D. Marcus
President & COO

Arthur T. Minson, Jr.
Courtesy of Time Warner Cable [20].

Arthur T. Minson, Jr.
Executive VP & CFO

Competitors

Time Warner Cable, Inc.’s primary competitors in the cable industry are AT&T, Inc., Comcast Corporation, and Dish Network Corporation. Competition became a serious issue for Time Warner Cable after it lost over 300,000 subscribers during the month long CBS blackout [6].

Ownership History

The 1968 founding of the American Television and Communications (ATC) set the foregrounds for Time Warner Cable, Inc. In 1989, Time Inc. and Warner Cable merged to become Time Warner, Inc. In 1992, a merger between ATC and Warner Cable was announced, creating Time Warner Cable. In 2009, Time Warner Cable and Time Warner, Inc. separated. NewWave Communications and Insight Communications were acquired by Time Warner Cable, Inc. in 2011 and 2012, respectively [7].

Financials

2013 has been a successful year for Time Warner Cable. Stock prices fell in February and March, going as low as $84.75 but have remained steadily above $100.00 since the end of July. A noticeable valley in stock prices occurred between August and September, when Time Warner Cable had its conflict with CBS, prompting a large loss in subscribers. Stock prices saw an increase in early October and have remained consistent throughout November, showing a rebound from the discrepancy [8].

Quarterly data has ranged from $5.5 Billion to $5.6 Billion in 2013, and current stocks suggest this trend will continue in the fourth quarter. This forecast means a total revenue of roughly $22 Billion in 2013, showing on par results with the 2012 revenue of $21.3 Billion and surpassing the 2011 revenue of $19.7 Billion, marking a successful year for Time Warner Cable [9]. However, due to the CBS conflict, Time Warner Cable is now expecting only a 3-3.5% increase in revenue for 2013 as opposed to the initially projected 4-5% [10].

In The News

The CBS and Time Warner Discrepancy

CBS ad concerning Time Warner blackout. Image Courtesy CNN Money [21]

The retransmission agreement between CBS and Time Warner Cable, Inc. ended in June of 2013, and the failure to reach a new agreement after numerous deadline delays resulted in the station being blacked out in eight markets across the United States on August 2nd [11]. CBS was seeking more compensation from Time Warner Cable due to the high ratings of its programming. An agreement was reached and CBS was reinstated in the markets on September 2nd, 2013. The beginning of the regular NFL season caused urgency in reaching an agreement, as both sides wanted to reap advertising benefits [11]. Over the course of the blackout, Time Warner Cable lost over 300,000 subscribers, and also had to compensate pay-subscribers for different CBS owned stations, including Showtime [10].

Increasing Internet Speeds

Time Warner Cable router. Image courtesy Hot Hardware. [22]

Following the problematic CBS blackout, customers in the New York, Los Angeles, and Hawaii markets will have their Internet speeds increased. Those with the Ultimate Internet package will have speed doubled from 50 to 100Mbps through the rest of the year, while other markets will receive the increased speed throughout 2014. The baseline Internet offering will also be doubled in speed, while maintaining its $14.99 price. Customers with the existing baseline Internet package will receive the speed increases throughout 2014. Time Warner Cable hopes to appease its remaining customers and bring back customers who cancelled their subscriptions with these speed increases [12].

IntelligentHome Service Expands

Intelligent Home display. Image courtesy Time Warner Cable. [24]

IntelligentHome display. Image courtesy Time Warner Cable [23].

Time Warner Cable’s 2011 project, IntelligentHome, finalized its national implementation in November. The service allows for electronic control of several aspects of the home, including lights, temperature, and security. A central, outlet connected device acts as the main control and mobile applications can be used to access IntelligentHome, allowing control from outside of the home. The $99.99 installation and monthly fees below $40 are looking to revolutionize home security and efficiency. Time Warner Cable entering into the emerging home automation market and creating all encompassing deals with Internet and cable can result in a brand makeover [13].

Al Jazeera Distribution

Al Jazeera America logo. Image courtesy American Thinker [24].

News source Al Jazeera America announced a distribution deal with Time Warner Cable in late October. The channel initially launched in New York City and Los Angeles, as these are seen as key markets. Al Jazeera America will be fully implemented in all of Time Warner Cable’s Markets by March of 2014. Time Warner Cable viewed adding Al Jazeera America as an opportunity to replace Current TV, which was pulling in lackluster ratings. The channel is currently attracting fewer than 25,000 viewers at any given time, but Time Warner Cable and Al Jazeera America are hopeful that it will follow a similar ratings trajectory of other news stations such as Fox News and MSNBC [14].

Samsung Galaxy Tablet Partnership

Time Warner Cable and Samsung Galaxy Promotion. Image Courtesy Multi Channel [25].

With the 2013 holiday season approaching, Time Warner Cable has entered into a partnership with Samsung, offering new and old customers an opportunity to get a Samsung Galaxy Tablet. By selecting or upgrading to particular cable and Internet packages, customers will receive a complementary tablet. Samsung and Time Warner Cable are seeking a mutually beneficial relationship; Time Warner Cable is hoping to get more customers and upgrades by attaching the desired tablet to its packages, while Samsung is looking to be competitive with Apple in the tablet market. Time Warner Cable is also looking to promote the idea of watching television on a tablet, whether inside or outside of the home through these packages, so tablets will come with the Time Warner Cable application already installed [15].

Streaming Deal With Discovery

Discovery Channel Logo. Image courtesy of Hollywood Reporter [26].

Time Warner Cable made an agreement with Discovery Communications that involves streaming the content of its numerous channels across new platforms including smartphones and tablets. This may be implemented through Time Warner Cable’s official mobile application, or Discovery may potentially be launching its own applications. Comcast entered a similar agreement with Discovery Communications, but solely with Discovery Channel, opening an opportunity for Time Warner Cable to gain a wider market than one of its major competitors. The recent announcement from Nielsen that portable views will start to be accounted for in ratings was an extra incentive for both parties [16].

Sources

1. Time Warner Cable: About Time Warner Cable

2. Time Warner Cable: Digital Cable

3. Time Warner Cable: Internet

4. Time Warner Cable: Phone

5. Time Warner Cable: Executives

6. Hoovers: Competition

7. Time Warner Cable: Ownership History

8. Yahoo Finance: Stocks

9. Yahoo Finance: Income Statement

10. Reuters: Subscription Loss & Income Forecast

11. USA Today: CBS Blackout Ends

12. Uber Gizmo: Increasing Internet Speeds

13. PC Mag: IntelligentHome Implementation

14. NY Times: Al Jazeera Distribution

15. Next iPhone News: Samsung Galaxy Deal

16. Wall Street Journal: Discovery Distribution Deal

Image Sources

17. Lazy Tech Guys – Time Warner Cable

18. Time Warner Cable – Glenn A. Britt

19. Time Warner Cable – Robert D. Marcus

20. Time Warner Cable – Arthur T. Minson, Jr.

21. CNN Money – Time Warner Ad

22. Hot Hardware – Time Warner Cable Router

23. Time Warner Cable – IntelligentHome Display

24. American Thinker – Al Jazeera Logo

25. Multi Channel – Time Warner Cable and Samsung Galaxy Deal

26. Hollywood Reporter – Discover Channel Logo

Discovery Communications

Posted on April 8, 2013 by Whembley Sewell

by Whembley Sewell

Logo for Discovery Communications [1]

CONTACT:

One Discovery Place

Silver Spring, MD 20910

http://corporate.discovery.com/

COMPANY OVERVIEW & INFLUENCERS:

President and CEO David Zaslav [14]

Discovery Communications is the leading creator of non-fiction media content in the world.[2] Since its founding in 2005, Discovery’s influence has grown to span over 200 countries across multiple different media platforms.[3] Under the leadership of CEO and President David Zaslav, the company has been experiencing many successes, in the realms of both finance and popularity. The company’s stock has increased 51.1% since the previous year,[13] viewership for their various channels have been at all-time highs with an estimated 1.7 billion subscribers.[15] New ventures are also beginning to break even and gain a strong foothold within the world of cable television.

HOLDINGS & MAJOR SUCCESSES:

From websites, to various cable channels, to magazines, Discovery Communications does it all. Their dedication to providing both entertaining, yet educational and informative content, factor into their overall success with their audiences. They produce material on each of their sites and channels that have worked to generate a large following and strong ratings. Each one of Discovery Communications’ holdings has a loyal group of viewers that are drawn in day and day out by the unique content that Discovery creates.

Logo for Discovery Channel [12]

One of their most notable holdings includes the channel bearing their name, The Discovery Channel. Since its founding in 1985, it has served the purpose of exposing viewers to the inner workings and complexities of the world, be it subjects including technology, history, or science. The Discovery Channel has stationed itself as “the number one media and television brand in overall quality”, providing its audiences with content featuring top of the line cinematography. Some of the programs that are popular now include Deadliest Catch and MythBusters.

A poster for TLC’s hit show “Toddlers & Tiaras” [10]

The Learning Channel, or TLC also stands out amongst Discovery Communications as a heavy-hitter in the world of cable programming. In 1991, when Discovery acquired TLC for $31.5 Million, they used the opportunity to launch more reality programming. Early programs like “Trauma in the E.R” paved the way for other successful reality shows like “Trading Spaces” and “What Not to Wear”. Now, TLC is churning out multiple hit shows like “Jon & Kate, Plus 8”, “Toddlers & Tiaras”, “DC Cupcakes,” “Cake Boss”, and the craze that is “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo”.[9] Though shows like “Toddlers & Tiaras” and “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo” draw in some negative criticism from viewers, many of these non-fiction series and their respective casts have become “worldwide phenomena” that continuously draw ever broadening audiences in to the programming that Discovery Communications has to offer.

CURRENT VENTURES:

Logo for Revision3 [16]

In 2012, as an attempt to cater to the “internet generation”, Discovery Communications acquired Revision3. All of its content exists on Revision3.com, but it can also be viewed on a television. Their also features programming features content that can be accessed on various different mobile devices, and can be found across the internet on sites like YouTube, Dailymotion, and Metacafe. It is estimated that Revision3 rakes in about 23 million viewers, all looking to enjoy the network’s shows about technology, modern culture, and music amongst many other things.[7] Though the site and its extensions rake in an estimated 80 million views monthly, efforts are being made to improve these numbers. In order to increase the popularity amongst their target demographic, Revision3 recently launched an XBOX360 app for easy access. This will allow them to reach over 70 million people,[11] and aligns them with other over the top video services such as Netflix, Hulu, and HBOGO.

Release poster for 3Net [20]

3Net is a revolutionary concept created by world class teams at Discovery and leading studios Sony, and IMAX.[18] The entire channel serves the purpose of creating top of the line, three-dimensional content. 3Net, released in early 2011 and fully launched in late 2012, is now functioning as the first and the only 24/7 3D network.[17] Its unique position as the first channel of its kind allows 3Net to have established one of the “most extensive” libraries of 3D content in the entire world.[19] It has something for everyone, offering a wide range of programming in every genre, be it documentary, action, lifestyle, cuisine, kids and family, or travel.[17] Even though it in its infancy, this network has been well received and has acquired a base of approximately 40 million viewers already. Their distribution affiliates have grown to include companies like DIRECTV, Comcast, and Netflix.[21] In order to provide their increasing influence and generate even more widespread appeal, 3Net has been looking to create the highest quality content. In the works is the development of 4K and UltraHD programming that will provide 3Net’s audience with best grade of entertainment possible.[21]

Promotional poster for the release of Oprah Winfrey’s network, OWN [6]

One of Discovery’s most recent and notable ventures is that of OWN, or Oprah Winfrey Network. OWN, a network with a very female-centric focus, has allowed Discovery Communications to market on Oprah Winfrey’s massive audience and has used Winfrey’s widespread appeal to launch extensions of the world reknown Oprah Winfrey show. Shows such as “Oprah’s Next Chapter”, “Oprah’s Lifeclass”, and “Oprah’s Masterclass” all utilized Winfrey’s fame to springboard her entire network. [4] Unfortunately, OWN was off to a rocky start and its potential for success was questioned early on. After starting with losses of $330 Million and upwards, rumors flew that the network would be quickly axed.[5] Fortunately, Winfrey has recently partnered with other heavy-hitters like Tyler Perry to produce new and diverse releases to draw in bigger audiences. [4] New shows debuting in May, like Perry’s “The Haves and the Have Nots” and “Love They Neighbor”, are OWN’s first ventures into scripted series, which hopefully will help them to bring in more viewers and compete with other networks with largely female audiences like Bravo and Lifetime.[8]

WORKS CITED:

[1] http://media.corporate.discovery.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DISC-COMM-pos-4c.png

[2] http://corporate.discovery.com/our-company/overview/

[3] http://www.reuters.com/finance/stocks/companyProfile?symbol=DISCA.O

[4] http://www.oprah.com/own

[5] http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2140773/Oprahs-OWN-network-Losses-approach-330m-amid-predictions-axed-year.html

[6] http://www.mediabistro.com/prnewser/files/2011/01/OWN.jpg

[7] http://corporate.discovery.com/brands/revision3/

[8] http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324391104578225750715281798.html

[9] http://www.businessinsider.com/history-of-tlc-from-learning-channel-to-honey-boo-boo-2012-11?op=1

[10] http://www.canadianfreestuff.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Toddlers-300×225.gif

[11] http://www.reelseo.com/revision3-xbox-360-perfect-match/

[12] http://www.vivatv.ro/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/discovery-channel-logo.jpg

[13] http://www.deadline.com/2013/04/discovery-david-zaslav-2012-compensation-salary/

[14] http://www2.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Summer+TCA+Tour+Day+3+Di10W00Q6aql.jpg

[15] http://www.reuters.com/finance/stocks/companyProfile?symbol=DISCA.O

[16] http://media.corporate.discovery.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/revision3-logo.jpeg

[17] http://press.discovery.com/us/3n/info/

[18] http://corporate.discovery.com/brands/us/3d-network/

[19] http://www.3net.com/about

[20] http://www.adweek.com/files/cable.3NET_SONY.ad.jpg

[21] http://corporate.discovery.com/discovery-news/3net-marks-second-anniversary-dramatic-growth-cons/

Scripps Networks Interactive

Posted on April 8, 2013 by Melissa Clawges

by Melissa Clawges

[1]

9721 Sherrill Boulevard

Knoxville, TN 37932

(865) 694-2700

www.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com

[2]

Executives

Courtesy of Scripps Networks Interactive [3]

Kenneth W. Lowe – Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer

Joe NeCastro, Chief Financial & Administrative Officer, Scripps Networks Interactive

Courtesy of Scripps Networks Interactive [4]

Joseph G. NeCastro – Chief Financial and Administrative Officer

Courtesy of Scripps Networks Interactive [5]

John F. Lansing – President, Scripps Network

[6]

Company Overview

Scripps Network Interactive is the leader in lifestyle content for a variety of media platforms that include publishing, mobile, digital, and television. Their brands include HGTV, DIY Network, Cooking Channel, Food Network, Great American Country (GAC), and Travel Channel. They have a variety of online content, including video and social media and e-commerce, that acts as a compliment to the on-air programming. Scripps Network Interactive strives to deliver content to the consumer when and wherever the consumer wants it. The lifestyle content that Scripps provides has a series of niche audiences that makes Scripps a desirable company to advertise with. Scripps programming is available and has been viewed on every continent in the world. Also, their websites gets over 18 million visitors each month. Scripps Networks Interactive distributes their content in a variety of ways. They include: Internet, books, satellite radio, video-on-demand, DVDs, magazines, video games, and more recently mobile. They also have a variety of branded merchandise in categories such as kitchenware, food venues, cruises, and festivals. Although they are headquartered in Knoxville, TN, they also have offices in Chicago, Los Angeles, Washington, New York, San Francisco, Atlanta, Nashville, Detroit, Dallas, Cincinnati, and an international office in London. [7]

Scripps Networks [8]

History

Scripps Networks Interactive was started in 1878 when Edward W. Scripps founded The Penny Press in Cleveland, Ohio. Scripps quickly became one of the most successful newspaper publishers and began to build its reputation as one of the top operators of local television stations. During the 1980s, Scripps decided to start buying and building cable television systems in order to create revenue that didn’t depend on advertising. Scripps later sold these Cable TV systems to Comcast.

In the 1990s, Scripps decided to direct its free cash flow to invest in entertainment and information content. Then, Scripps purchased Cinetel Productions. This was a creator for cable programming. With this new asset, Scripps announced its launch of HGTV in 1994.

After the success of HGTV, Scripps created various other lifestyle based networks, including Food Network (1997), DIY Network (1999), and Fine Living Network (2002). They also acquired GAC (2004) and Travel Channel (2009).

The E.W. Scripps Company quickly became a visionary media company that had created value for its shareholders. In 2007, the board of directors spilt The E.W. Scripps Company into two publicly-traded companies. Scripps Networks Interactive was created to focus on fast growing television lifestyle brands and Internet services while The E.W. Scripps Company focused on local media businesses.

Today, Scripps Networks Interactive includes its lifestyle anchored networks, interactive businesses, and shopping services that include its easily recognized television and internet brands. Meanwhile, The E.W. Scripps Company is a leader in providing communities through television stations, newspapers, and a variety of digital options. [9]

Competitors

Discovery Communications, Inc.

MTV Networks Company

NBCUniversal Media, LLC

[10]

Finances

Scripps Networks Interactive Class A Common Share stock is currently valued at $65.95. The change for today is +0.68 or 1.04%. Its volume is 850,900 and its 52 week high is $66.41 while its 52 week low is $45.67. [11]

Stock Quote [12]

Scripps Networks Interactive, Stock Information [13]

Scripps Networks Interactive made a substantial amount more in 2012 than 2011. According to its income statement, Scripps Network Interactive had a net income of $681, 478 in 2012 versus $411,558 in 2011. Their total revenue for 2012 is $2.31 Billion. [14]

Recent News

The Food Network began 2013 by redefining its look. It is celebrating its 20th anniversary by getting a brand makeover that will be featured on the network over the course of the next fews months. [15]

The food service distribution company, Sysco, has launched a marketing relationship with the Food Network. The campaign is slated to last for a year. Sysco will sponsor “Restaurant: Impossible” in return for product integration and TV commercials. They will also hold multiple customer sweepstakes over the course of the next year. [16]

Food Network Star winner, Justin Warner, has a new show ‘Rebel Eats’ on Food Network. The show premiered on March 30th and consists of Justin going out with $300 in his pocket in search for culinary rule breakers. [17]

Justin Warner, The star of the new Food Network Show ‘Rebel Eats’ [17]

GAC recently filmed an ‘ACM New Artist’ Special. Florida Georgia Line, Brantley Gilbert, Jana Kramer, and Scotty McCreery were all in attendance. Florida Georgia Line, Jana Kramer, and Brantley Gilbert will be competing for the coveted ACM New Artist of the Year Award at this year’s Academy of Country Music Awards. [18]

Artists featured on the ‘ACM New Artist’ Special [18]

Future

HGTV is currently gearing up for its first ever Smart Home Giveaway. The contest opens for entries on April 11 and will last until May 31, 2013. The house is located in Jacksonville Beach, FL and the winner receives the fully furnished home, a 2013 GMC Terrain Denali, and $100,000. [19]

Great Room of the new HGTV Smart Home. [19]

A new Food Network Series will be premiering Thursday, April 25th. The show has four employees who will endure a series of events to test their management skills. They will be recorded on hidden camera working at one of the busiest pizza places in Manhattan. Whoever wins the show will be awarded their own franchise. Franchises that will be showcased include Jersey Mike’s Subs, 16 Handles, Muscle Maker Grill, and more.[20]

The Travel Channel will be premiering six new shows this summer. There will be over 100 hours of new, original programming. The new shows include, “Rock My RV with Bret Michaels,” “Bikinis & Boardwalks,” and “RIDE-iculous.” “Bizarre Food America,” “Xtreme Waterparks” and “Insane Coaster Wars: World Domination” will also make their return on the Travel Channel this summer. [21]

Bret Michaels, star of new show on Travel Channel [21]

Scripps Networks Interactive plans to continue to be the leading provider of lifestyle-oriented content and also to expand their reach through all media platforms. Scripps will continue to evolve by introducing new television shows and products as the year continues.

Sources

1. Google:

http://adthinktank.com/wp-content/themes/apex/functions/thumb.php?src=http://adthinktank.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/adthink_scrippsr.jpg&h=360&w=640&zc=1

2. Yahoo! Finance

http://finance.yahoo.com/q/pr?s=SNI+Profile

3. Google:

http://homeshoppingista.files.wordpress.com/2010/01/exlowe.jpg

4. Google:

http://www.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/newsroom/Documents/Joe-NeCastro.jpg

5. Google:

http://www.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/newsroom/Documents/John-Lansing.JPG

6. Scripps Networks Interactive (Leaders):

http://www.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/our-company/leaders/

7. Scripps Networks Interactive (About Us):

http://www.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/our-company/about-us/

8. Google:

http://journalism.fiu.edu/lib/img/intern/hostcomp_scripps.jpg

9. Scripps Networks Interactive (History):

http://www.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/our-company/history/

10. Yahoo! Finance (Competitors):

http://finance.yahoo.com/q/co?s=SNI+Competitors

11. Scripps Networks Interactive (Stock Information):

http://ir.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=222475&p=irol-stockquote

12. Scripps Networks Interactive (Investor Relations):

http://ir.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=222475&p=irol-irhome

13. Yahoo! Finance SNI Charts

http://finance.yahoo.com/q/bc?s=SNI+Basic+Chart

14. Yahoo! Finance (Income statement):

http://finance.yahoo.com/q/is?s=SNI+Income+Statement&annual

15. Scripps Networks Interactive (Food Network News & Media):

http://www.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/newsroom/company-news/Food-Network-begins-new-year-with-new-look/

16. Scripps Networks Interactive (Food Network News & Media):

http://www.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/newsroom/company-news/Sysco-launches-multi-platform-marketing-relationship-with-Food-Network/

17. Scripps Networks Interactive (Food Network News & Media):

http://www.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/newsroom/company-news/Pages/Food-Network-Star-winner-Justin-Warner’s-‘Rebel-Eats’-premieres-March-30-at-10pm-ET-PT.aspx

18. Scripps Networks Interactive (GAC News & Media):

http://www.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/newsroom/company-news/Pages/GAC-has-Florida-Georgia-line,-Brantly-Gilbert,-Jana-Kramer,-Scotty-McCreery-for-‘ACM-New-Artist’-special.aspx

19. Scripps Networks Interactive (HGTV):

http://www.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/newsroom/company-news/HGTV-Smart-Home-2013-Giveaway-Opens-for-Entries-April-11/

20. Scripps Networks Interactive (Food Network News & Media):

http://www.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/newsroom/company-news/Employees-unknowingly-compete-for-own-food-franchise-in-new-Food-Network-series/

21. Scripps Networks Interactive (Travel Channel News & Media):

http://www.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/newsroom/company-news/Pages/Travel-Channel-heats-up-summer-with-six-hot-new-shows-under-‘We-Are-Summer’-banner.aspx

Discovery Communications

Posted on April 1, 2013 by Jasmine White

by Jasmine White

The World’s #1 Nonfiction Media Company [2]

One Discovery Place
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Tel: 240.662.2000/ http://corporate.discovery.com/

Overview

Discovery Communications[1] entered the media sphere as a single channel, The Discovery Channel. After acquiring its rival, The Learning Channel in 1991, it would go on to enter a series of acquisitions that have earned the corporation notoriety as the world’s number one media company. Discovery is currently a publicly owned company and trades on the NASDAQ stock market. It currently reaches more than 1.8 billion subscribers in 218 countries and territories. Moreover, Discovery is proud to be a leading provider of educational products and services to schools and owns a diverse portfolio of digital media services.

[1]

Leadership [3]

Photo of John S. Hendricks John S. Hendricks is the founder of Discovery and serves as Executive Chairman. Hendricks wanted to provide viewers with quality documentaries that would allow them to explore their world. He has been the recipient of numerous awards, such as the Primetime Emmy Award, the Governors Award and the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Photo of Robert R. Beck Robert R. Beck has been Discovery’s Financial Consultant since 2001 and is a member of the compensation committee.

Photo of J. David Wargo J. David Wargo is the Director of Discovery, chairman of the Nominating Committee and a member of the Audit Committee.

Photo of Steven A. Miron Steven A. Miron is the Director of Discovery Communications and a member of the Nominating Committee.

Finances [4]

February 14, Discovery lost 33 percent of its net income in the fourth-quarter, dropping its income to $224 million, or 61 cents per share. Analysts were expecting 76 cents per share.

The company attributed the decline to a rise in taxes, equity-based compensation and costs due to its acquisitions. Total revenue rose 8 percent to $1.2 billion, in line with analysts’ expectations. Discovery forecast 2013 revenue of $5.58 billion to $5.70 billion. Analysts are expecting $5.43 billion.

Executives are relying on key partnerships and programming like Oprah Winfrey’s OWN network. They say that the high-profile and expensive joint venture is on track. Despite the success of OWN and ventures like it, Discovery generally makes 33 percent less money on advertising than rivals.

Oprah’s Interview with Lance Armstrong

Discovery continues to make innovative deals to supplement its income. December 14, the corporation officially closed the deal with ProSieben[5]. ProSieben has a total enterprise value of $1.7 billion. Discovery now has 12 companies in Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland, strengthening its connection in the Nordic markets. The transaction also included 19 radio stations, including the #1 radio portfolio in Sweden.

December was an eventful month for Discovery; the corporation announced a strategic alliance with TF1/Eurosport (Eurosport International and Eurosport France) [6], acquiring a 20 percent minority interest. Eurosport reaches 130 million subscribers in 59 countries across Europe. The alliance also garnered Discovery stock in France (TV Breizh, Histoire, Ushuaia TV and Stylia).

Product

[7]

Discovery Channel

Discovery Channel, launched June 17, 1985 is one of the most widely distributed cable networks in the United States. It is dedicated to creating innovative and quality nonfiction content. The genres include science, history, adventure and the like. Popular series include Deadliest Catch, MythBusters and Frozen Planet. The targeted audience is 25-54, particularly men and reaches 100 million U.S. households; 314 million international subscribers.

Myth Busters ‘Walking on Water

[8]

TLC

TLC(The Learning Channel) offers globally recognized programming that focuses on unique storytelling. Acquired by Discovery in May of 1991, it has succeeded in becoming the top 10 cable network for women. In 2001, TLC had 28 unique television series, averaging one million viewers per episode. Some of the most popular shows include, Sister Wives, Toddlers & Tiaras, 19 Kids, What Not To Wear and Here Comes Honey Boo Boo. Currently, 99 million U.S. households and 201 million international homes subscribe to TLC.

[9]

[10]

Animal Planet

Animal Planet, launched October 1, 1996, is the only channel to fully immerse viewers in the Animal Kingdom. Viewership has been up 18% since January 2012, bringing in 97 million U.S. and 275 million international subscribers. The target audience reached are adults 25-54. Viewers enjoy television shows like Whale Wars, River Monsters, Fatal Attractions, Finding Bigfoot, Pit Bulls and Parolees and Dogs 101.

[10]

Discovery Famila

Discovery Famila, launched August 2007, garners 4 million U.S subscribers. It introduces educational and entertaining, family-oriented programming to kids and families in the Spanish language. Daytime programming is geared toward preschoolers’ by offering fun and educational Spanish-language content that will preserve their native language. Evenings offer family-friendly series and specials and aspirational lifestyle content for women and families, including programs on cooking, dining, travel, design, beauty, health and parenting.

Newsroom

January 08, 2013 [10]

Successful Holiday Programming Events and Slate of Network Movie Premieres Drive Strong New Year Start for The Hub TV Network

The Hub Network, owned by Discovery, had a solid jumpstart on the New Year. The network introduced a steady flow of holiday marathons, followed by original Hub TV Network original programming. It delivered significant year-over-year audience growth reaching all key target demographics including Kids 2-11 (+63%), Kids 6-11 (+56%), Women 18-49 (+69%), Adults 18-49 (+50%), Persons 2+ (+67%) and Households (+52%).

January 14, 2013 [11]

Discovery Communications Acquires Switchover Media

Discovery acquired 100 percent of Switchover Media, an Italian media company that owns four free-to-air television channels and one pay-TV television channel in Italy. This new deal has made Discovery the third largest broadcaster in Italy in terms of collective audience share. Italy is the leading market for Discovery and key to its growth over the last two years. The acquisition of Switchover Media adds further breadth and scale and also diversifies Discovery’s portfolio to include scripted crime and children’s programming.

March 28, 2013 [12]

Revision3 Launches Robust App for Xbox 360

Revision3, A Discovery Digital Video network, announced the launch of its app for the Xbox 360® video game. Xbox LIVE Gold members in the U.S., Canada and Australia can install the new Revision3 app from the Xbox LIVE® marketplace*. Fans of Revision3 content can now watch their favorite shows. There are thousands of unique shows, including Rev3Games, Film Riot and more. Revision3 allows subscribers to view the content on their television, tablet, game station, phone, or a traditional laptop.

Sources

7. Discovery Channel Logo

Scripps Networks Interactive

Posted on December 5, 2012 by dcdisalv

By Deana DiSalvio

Logo, SNI

9721 Sherrill Boulevard
Knoxville, TN 37932 865.694.2700
www.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com

Scripps Network Interactive (SNI), a leader in cable television network, advancing digital media platforms, publishing, and a developer in lifestyle programming across multiple communication mediums. Specializing in lifestyle content through cable networks, such as The Cooking Channel, The Travel Channel, and HGTV. The company also has minority interest in regional sports network, FOX Sports Net South, and internationally, with a significant stake in the United Kingdom television broadcaster, UKTV. The company has made significant strides in branding their own products, such as Food Network Kitchenware, and by teaming up with well-known brands, such as, HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams.

Logo, Diversity Lives Here

Priding itself on diversity, SNI aims to drive the behaviors and success in the workforce and marketplace. Combined with the consumer-centric philosophy, focusing on delivering content, products, and services whenever and wherever a consumer wants it, that very focus established and continues to sustain the company as a leader in lifestyle. [1]

History

SNI began as a Cleveland, Ohio The Penny Press, started in 1878 by Edward W. Scripps. The newspaper had increased post-war publishing success, and the Scripps Company moved toward the business of locally operated television. Prompted by the desire to not depend on advertising revenue [2], the company established itself in cable; buying and building television systems. By the 80s, the company’s reputation was one of America’s largest cable operators.

Innovations in technology began to excel in the 1990s, and the Scripps Company began to immerse themselves even more within cable television. Scripps began building the company further by purchasing Cinetel Productions, a Knoxville, Tennessee based cable programmer, and shortly after announced the launch of the Home and Garden Television. Taking the first steps with HGTV, the company began to carve out a defined reputation formed around lifestyle programming.

The company’s shift from newspaper to broadcast television, cable programming to the Internet, was complete. The creation of long-term value for their shareholders, moved the company into the future of the technological age. A separation that divided the company’s television lifestyle brands, and global Internet services occurred in 2008, which created two publicly-traded companies. [2]

SNI, Brands

Now a leading media enterprise, that still publishes magazines, SNI has a significant presence in television broadcasting, as well as a strong hold over the advantageous ways of the Internet in interactivity, marketing, and accessibility.

Key People

The current President of Scripps Network Interactive is John F. Lansing. The current Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Scripps Network Interactive is Kenneth W. Lowe, and who is credited for building the company into the success brand it is today. The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is Joseph G. Necastro.

Products

Ad., HGTV

Ad., Do It Yourself

Ad., Great American Country

The major brands of SNI include variety and insights to approaches in lifestyle. The Networks first major brand is Home and Garden Television (HGTV), which is a leader in home and lifestyle television programming. Some television shows include House Hunters or Kitchen Cousins, which include remodeling, refurbishing, and decorating households by expert designers. HGTV products are sold, from home decor for bathrooms and bedrooms, to advice from professional interior designers and landscapers.

Along similar lines of home decoration and improvement, the brand Do It Yourself (DIY), which provides ‘How To’ descriptions and videos for household renovations online.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OlrE0A_NBiw&feature=share&list=UUgezeU5ToWz2Eg5JjuIctng

Ad., Food Network

Food Network, includes Chef’s advice, recipes, entertaining tips on decorations as a host, and restaurant recommendations online and in their subscriber magazine, Food Network Magazine. Popular television shows include The Next Iron Chef, a competitive culinary showdown that selects the next best chef to take the honorable position and title of Iron Chef. Renowned chefs and recognizable personalities are also associated with the network, such as Giada De Laurentiis, with her own show, Giada at Home. Other popularized personalities include the likes of; Mario Batali, Rachel Ray, and Paula Deen.

Host, Giada De Laurentiis

Ad., Cooking Channel

The Cooking Channel, which has online recipes and cooking videos, as well as television programming, focusing on the culinary aspect of creating and eating healthy, enjoyable food. Some familiar hosts are Bobby Flay, who has a T.V. show, Brunch @ Bobby’s, as well as Emeril Lagasse, who has a show, Fresh Food Fast. CityEats is also a brand, in partnership with the Food Network, in which brings light to the public, the world of restaurants with quality food, experience, and the experimentation of chefs, nationwide. The brand aims to provide the consumer with a genuine and overall enjoyable experience of dining out, while diversifying palate and cultural exposure through gastronomy. [4]

The Great American Country is a brand of the Scripps, which broadcasts country music entertainment, such as live concerts and country artist music videos. Television programming consists of shows like, Great American Heroes, hosted by country singer and philanthropist Trace Adkins, as well as the show Living Countryfied, which highlights food, festivals, and traditions across the nation.

Ad., Travel Channel

The Travel Channel is another brand that explores the world at large; from hotel booking and destination advice, to VIP Sweepstakes Vacation Prizes, the brand ultimately brings different cultures and places to the consumer. Television shows include writer and chef Anthony Bourdain’s, No Reservations, as well as the competitive show, Man vs. Food with Adam Richman. Whether an individual needs to take a business trip in a city they’ve never been, or one would like historical tour of a European city, the network provides rankings and reviews for the latter. The network has introduced The Layover App, for iPhones, iPads, and iPod Touch, which provides consumers with the ability to plan their trip on-the-go, equipped with maps and timelines anywhere: the ultimate travel guide. The app coincides with The Layover, which premiered this fall.

Major Competitors

Some of the company’s top competitors are NBCUniversal Media, LLC, Discovery Communications, Inc., and MTV Networks Company.

Finances

This year, 2012, the company reported to the Wall Street Journal above the expected net income for the second quarter (August). The company’s net income rose from $142.4 million, compared to last year’s second quarter, which was reported at $77.4 million. [5]

Wall Street Journal, Interactive Chart

The company continued to maintain strong profits in the third quarter (November). Scripps reported that net income rose about 20.1% to $118.4 million, compare to last year’s third quarter, reported at $98.6 million. [6]

Recent News

In the beginning of 2012, the company acquired the company RealGravity Inc., which specializes in online video publishing technologies. Scripps hopes to benefit from the innovative platforms that RealGravity develops, creating an stronger interactive digital team. [7]

Also this year, the company reached a long-time agreement with Comcast Xfinity, to bring more of Scripps television programming to different media platforms. “This agreement benefits our viewers and Comcast customers, making available on multiple platforms – both in home and out of home – our lifestyle programming that viewers are so passionate about,” said Henry Ahn, executive vice president of distribution strategy at SNI. [8]

More recent, the The Edward W. Scripps Trust ended, which controlled SNI since 2008, when the company became independent publicly traded. The grandson of the founder of the company, Robert P. Scripps, passed away, and was the last of the descendants upon which the trust was based. Meetings to distribute the assets have been underway, however will not occur immediately due to customary legal proceedings. [9]

Most recent, A.B. Cruz III, Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary at SNI, announced his resignation. He is stepping down because he wishes to fulfill his military responsibilities as a Rear Admiral in the U.S. Navy Reserve. Cruz held his position at SNI for 8 years, and his successor, Cynthia L. Gibson, member of the Senior Management Team at SNI, was appointed shortly after his announcement. [10]

Community Involvement

The company is extremely involved in the community. One effort is through the national partnership between the company and Share Our Strength. The organization aims to end childhood hunger in America by ensuring healthy food every day. [11] In 2011, Scripps provided 3.5 million meals to children at the risk of hunger, as well as invested $20 million dollars in educational and entertaining promotional value for healthy eating.

Logo, Rebuilding Together

Rebuilding Together. Scripps also pledged $15 million dollars in 2011 to support the program Rebuilding Together, in which provides extensive home rehabilitation and modification services to homeowners in need. [3] The partnership aided in the completion of 10,000 construction projects. Some other partnerships that the company has solidified are; American Cancer Society, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Environmental Media Institution.

Due to the devastation of Hurricane Sandy 2012, the company donated to the Disaster Relief Effort $250,000, through the American Red Cross, to provide shelter, food, emotional support and other assistance to those affected by Hurricane Sandy. Along with this corporate donation, Scripps Networks Interactive is matching dollar-for-dollar employee donations to the American Red Cross through its corporate social responsibility program, Change the World. [12]

Reference

1. http://www.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/our-company/diversity/

2. http://www.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/our-company/history/

3.http://www.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/outreach/home/

4. http://www.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/our-brands/cityeats/

5. http://wallstcheatsheet.com/stocks/scripps-networks-interactive-earnings-beats-the-street-on-profit-rise.html/

6. http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/490191-Scripps_Networks_Profits_Jump_20_1_in_Third_Quarter.php

7.http://ir.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=222475&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1654876&highlight=

8.http://ir.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=222475&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1715058&highlight=

9.http://ir.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=222475&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1747643&highlight=

10.http://ir.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=222475&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1763326&highlight=

11.http://www.scrippsnetworksinteractive.com/outreach/food/