Following new law, TVN ponders topic for theme channel

ITI Group, a leading media company and owner of the TVN network, announced plans to introduce a new theme channel in January next year. Company representatives did not want to reveal the theme topic for the new station, but it seems that they decided to abandon the idea of a "health & beauty" type channel. "We will keep that channel on hold and are developing another one. For such projects, the theme is not only important, but also the market, which has undergone substantial changes, particularly with regard to health issues following the introduction of the new pharmaceutical law," said Piotr Tyborowicz, the head of the TVN advertising department. According to unofficial information, ITI Holdings is currently preparing a bond issue worth euro 150 million - euro 200 million, which is to be listed on the over-the-counter (CeTO) market. The issue is being arranged by Larchmont Finance. The project is scheduled to be concluded by the end of the year, and although the company will be publicly listed, it will be aimed at selected investors. ITI needs to finance the purchase of a 33% stake in TVN from the Scandinavian shareholder, SBS and in this way regain majority control over the flagship channel. (Media i Marketing Polska, p. 24; Puls Biznesu, p. 6) A.K.