Connoisseur Media to Acquire Alpha Media, Creating Top-10 Radio Broadcasting Group
Connoisseur Media has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Alpha Media, significantly expanding its radio broadcasting footprint. The deal, pending FCC approval, is expected to close in the second half of 2025.
The merger will combine Connoisseur's 11 existing stations with Alpha Media's portfolio, creating a network of 218 radio stations across 47 markets. The consolidated company will operate under the Connoisseur name and rank among the top 10 radio groups by both station count and revenue.
Connoisseur Media company logo
Key aspects of the merger include:
- Integration of Alpha Digital into Connoisseur's Ferocious Digital division
- Continued leadership under Connoisseur CEO Jeff Warshaw
- Financing provided by Brigade Capital Management
- Focus on strengthening local broadcasting and digital capabilities
"This transaction underscores our commitment to the irreplaceable role local broadcasters play in providing news, information and entertainment that truly resonates," stated Jeff Warshaw, CEO of Connoisseur. "Together, we will build an industry-leading platform of broadcast and digital."
The acquisition follows other significant movements in the radio industry, including Audacy's emergence from bankruptcy under Soros Fund Management's control and Brigade Capital's investment in Beasley Broadcast earlier this year.
While specific financial terms weren't disclosed, the deal represents a major consolidation in the radio broadcasting sector, emphasizing the industry's focus on combining traditional broadcasting with digital capabilities.