A+E Networks will assume full ownership of AETN All Asia Networks, the Singapore-based company formed as a joint venture with Astro Overseas Limited (AOL) in 2007. The move comes as A+E networks looks to expand its footprint and launch new brands, including Lifetime.
“Five years ago when we were exploring options to launch our brands in South East Asia, Astro was the clear choice to be our partner due to their local expertise and their strong record as a Pay-TV leader in the region,” said Steve Ronson, EVP, Enterprises for A+E Networks. “Astro has been and will continue to be a very important partner for us, and we are very pleased to see our relationship evolve and grow.”
A+E Networks and AOL will also establish a regional production partnership designed to nurture the production activity across South East Asia. The production partnership will help develop the local talent pool, and to create original content for regional and international audiences.
“As a leading media group in the region, we are happy to continue to our relationship with A+E Networks to develop and create compelling content and help elevate the creative industry in the region through the setting up of the regional production partnership,” said Zainir Aminullah, SVP, AOL.
AETN All Asia Networks’ management team will report to Alan Hodges, managing director, Asia-Pacific for A+E Networks.
“We view Asia as critically important for our international growth, and assuming full ownership of AETN All Asia Networks is a big step,” said Sean Cohan, EVP, international for A+E Networks. “This new structure will allow us to expand our brand portfolio and grow distribution throughout the region.”
Astro Malaysia, an affiliate of AOL, will continue to distribute History, Crime & Investigation Network and Bio in Malaysia and Brunei.
