ITV Confirms Ongoing Talks to Sell Broadcasting Arm to Sky
The discussions signal a pivot toward the higher‑growth ITV Studios business.
Overview
- ITV said it remains in active talks with Sky over a possible sale of its media and entertainment broadcasting unit.
- Reports put the price near £1.6 billion with a performance payout up to £200 million, and the deal would exclude ITV Studios.
- Recent results showed total ad revenue fell 2% year on year and M&E revenue slipped 2% to £477 million, while ITV Studios rose 4% to £400 million.
- Management guided to about 10% ad growth in the second quarter with July boosted by demand tied to the men’s football World Cup.
- Commentators said the drawn‑out talks point to price friction and floated TF1 or private equity as potential bidders if Sky walks away.