Scripps Nets, AT&T Sign Distribution Deal

AT&T and Scripps Networks Interactive said they reach a multi-year distribution agreement that keeps the Scripps Networks on DirecTV and U-Verse.

The new deal includes an expanded package of digital rights and the networks will be included on DirecTV Now and DirecTV Freeview when those streaming products are launched later this year.

Financial terms were not disclosed.

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“This agreement forwards the goal of Scripps Networks Interactive to make our valued content available to consumers at the time and on the device of their choosing,” said Henry Ahn, president, content distribution and marketing, Scripps Networks Interactive. “We value our ongoing and expanding relationship with AT&T and DirecTV, and look forward to working together to expand consumer choice and convenience.”

AT&T, which acquired DirecTV, has recently closed deals with a number of programmers as it prepares to launch its streaming services.

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“Through this new, expansive agreement our customers will be able to enjoy the entire family of Scripps Networks content virtually anytime, anywhere across all AT&T platforms,” said Dan York, chief content officer for AT&T. “Scripps Networks’ content will deliver more value as an important part of AT&T’s new DirecTV Now and DirecTV Freeview streaming services.”

Jon Lafayette

Jon has been business editor of Broadcasting+Cable since 2010. He focuses on revenue-generating activities, including advertising and distribution, as well as executive intrigue and merger and acquisition activity. Just about any story is fair game, if a dollar sign can make its way into the article. Before B+C, Jon covered the industry for TVWeek, Cable World, Electronic Media, Advertising Age and The New York Post. A native New Yorker, Jon is hiding in plain sight in the suburbs of Chicago.