The CRTC has approved Vista Radio’s purchase of 21 Bell Media radio stations, including 27 regional repeater transmitters in British Columbia.
The acquisition encompasses all Bell Media radio stations in B.C. the company plans to divest, with the exception of those in Vancouver and Victoria, including CHOR-FM Summerland, CJAT-FM Trail, CKKC-FM Nelson, CKGR-FM Golden, CKXR-FM Salmon Arm, CKCR-FM Revelstoke, CJMG-FM Penticton, CKOR-AM Penticton, CJOR-AM Osoyoos, CICF-FM Vernon, CHSU-FM, CILK-FM and CKFR-AM Kelowna, CKNL-FM Fort St. John, CHRX-FM Fort St. John, CJDC-AM Dawson Creek, CKRX-FM Fort Nelson, CFTK-AM and CJFW-FM Terrace, CHTK-FM Prince Rupert, and CKTK-FM Kitimat.
“We are delighted to move forward and welcome the talented teams and these outstanding stations into Vista Radio,” said Bryan Edwards, President of Vista Radio, in a company announcement. “Their values and focus on local programming, community service, and economic support align perfectly with our own. Together, we will enhance the strength of every market we serve, bringing even greater value to listeners, local businesses, and communities across British Columbia.”
The purchase price for the Bell Media assets is $3,036,000.
In its application, Vista expressed that it expects the acquisition to foster synergies with its existing network. The deal solidifies the company’s position as the dominant player in both the Trail and Nelson markets, controlling a total of four FM stations and one rebroadcasting transmitter in the Trail area and three stations serving the Nelson market.
Vista asserted in its acquisition announcement that it will continue “to focus on employing local talent and supporting businesses, fostering deep ties with the communities it serves.”
The acquisition brings Vista’s station count to more than 70, broadcasting across 110 frequencies in B.C., Alberta, Ontario, and the Northwest Territories. The company will also own and operate more than 50 locally-focused news, information, and event portals.
Vista Radio President Bryan Edwards joined Broadcast Dialogue – The Podcast when the acquisition was first announced one year ago. Listen to that conversation here:
