Food Network Announces License Agreement in Singapore; Scripps Networks Programming Now In Six Key Asian Markets

Business Wire, Oct 31, 2001

Business/Entertainment Editors

KNOXVILLE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 1, 2001

Scripps Networks has extended its reach into Asia with the addition of a branded block of Food Network programming on Singapore's premier broadcast channel. MediaCorp TV's Channel 5 is now broadcasting one hour of Food Network content each weekday to its 800,000 viewers.

Food Network, one of the fastest-growing cable networks in the U.S., is providing a minimum of 130 hours of programming for broadcast on Channel 5. Series scheduled to air this fall include East Meets West with Ming Tsai, Inside Scoop, Melting Pot, It's a Surprise, Food Fantasy, Molto Mario, and Hot Off the Grill with Bobby Flay.

"Viewers find information and inspiration in our programming, whether they live in Paris or Singapore," said Kristen Jordan, vice president of international development for Scripps Networks. "We're very pleased to extend our reach in Asia through this agreement with MediaCorp TV."

Other Asian countries where Food Network branded programming is carried include the Republic of Korea, Thailand, Hong Kong and the Philippines. Food Network, which is distributed to 67 million households in the U.S., also owns 29 percent of Food Network Canada. Food Network content also can be seen in France and Australia.

Selena Ho, senior assistant vice president, Network Programming and Promotions 5 for MediaCorp TV, added, "Food Network's diverse range of content is well suited to our daytime audience. We are excited to bring Scripps Networks' quality programming to our viewers."

Backed by more than 60 years of radio and 38 years of television experience, MediaCorp is one of the most experienced broadcasters in Southeast Asia. The television group manages six television networks, and operates 15 radio stations, as well as a movie studio and several publishing holdings.

Food Network (www.foodtv.com) is a part of Scripps Networks, a division of The E.W. Scripps Company (NYSE:SSP). Scripps Networks - which also owns and operates Home & Garden Television Network (HGTV), DIY (Do It Yourself Network), and Fine Living - has a growing international presence. In Asia, branded HGTV programming airs in Japan, the Philippines and Thailand. DIY branded content can be seen in Japan and the Philippines as well. Beyond Asia, HGTV's international reach extends into Canada, where HGTV owns 33 percent of HGTV Canada, and into Australia, where branded programming is available.