ABC, Univision To Create New TV News Network, Venture

Rare are those TV efforts that intend to start up new traditional television networks these days -- but ABC News and Univision News plan to achieve this with a new English-language news channel targeting bilingual Hispanic-Americans.

The two media organizations did not disclose a name for the network or details such as distribution, but did say they plan to launch a Web site, mobile and social media content this summer -- and that the TV channel will debut in 2013.

Citing soaring growth among Hispanic-Americans -- now 16% of the U.S. population (50 million) and headed to 30% in 2050 --  the news network will focus on the issues that are most relevant for U.S. Hispanics, including the economy, jobs, health care, immigration, education, politics, entertainment, health and wellness.

"Our powerful premier news brand, combined with the world’s leading Hispanic media company, will create the nation’s first news and lifestyle channel targeted to this quickly expanding and important community,” said Anne Sweeney, co-chair, Disney Media Networks and president, Disney/ABC Television Group, in a release.

Cesar Conde, president, Univision Networks, said: “This alliance combines the expertise and brand strength of Univision News with ABC News’ leadership and is another example of Univision’s commitment to serving and empowering Hispanic America while connecting all audiences to Latino issues.”

The ABC/Univision alliance touts a strong business/advertising environment -- that Hispanics have considerable spending power of over $1 trillion, and an increasing impact on social, economic and political trends.

ABC and Univision plan to announce a  management team this summer. The network will use news-gathering and production resources of ABC News and Univision News.

advertisement

advertisement

>
Next story loading loading..