• by David Goetzl  @dgoetzl, January 15, 2008

Independent Media Storm will now serve as the media agency for the Scripps network HGTV, giving the shop the business for the bulk of the company's networks.

The Food Network has been with the agency since 2003. It picked up smaller networks DIY and Fine Living in 2007. Billings were not disclosed.

With HGTV and Food Network touted as runaway successes, E.W. Scripps is preparing to split itself into two companies to help unlock their value on Wall Street. All five of the company's channels will be under the new publicly traded Scripps Networks Interactive.

Notable programs on HGTV include "Designed to Sell" and "HGTV Design Star."

Media Storm managing partner Craig Woerz said: "HGTV is a top leader in cable networks, and we are thrilled with the opportunity to play a key role in bringing more viewers to their air. They embrace our heritage of innovation and share the pioneering spirit."

Lori Asbury, head of marketing at the network, seen in some 90 million homes, said: "Media Storm has consistently demonstrated its ability to create the right media strategies that deliver big results for our sister networks. We are excited to have them put their magic to work for HGTV."

Open eight years, Media Storm has developed a core competency in representing cable networks. Clients include the Weather Channel, Speed, TruTV and the NFL Network.