• August 13, 2003

The E.W. Scripps Co. reported an 8.3% increase in revenues last month compared to the same period a year ago, led by a 29% increase in revenues at the fast-growing Scripps Networks. Scripps Networks revenues rose to $39.1 million in July on the strength of a 32% jump in advertising revenues and an 18% rise in affiliate fee revenues. Scripps Networks includes Home & Garden Television, Food Network, Fine Living and DIY. July's revenues at the company's 21 daily newspapers were up 1% to $51.7 million, although local advertising was down 3.6% to $11.6 million and classified about even at $16.4 million. National advertising was up 13% and preprints were up 8.9%. At the company's 10 broadcast television stations, revenues were down 3.7% to $21.3 million, mainly tied to a dropoff in the political advertising received last year.