Audacy Spinning St. Louis To Hoffmann
• The Hoffmann Family of Companies announced the proposed acquisition of six St. Louis radio brands from Audacy, Inc. — News-Talk KMOX-AM & FM • FM Talk 97.1 KFTK • Hot AC KYKY (Y98) • AC 102.5 KEZK • Urban AC WFUN (96.3 R&B) • Urban WHHL (Hot 98.7). The transaction marks Hoffmann’s initial expansion into broadcast, with plans for continued growth in the sector.
“This is a deliberate step to accelerate the expansion of our media platform and establish it as one of the largest print and digital news organizations in the United States,” said David Hoffmann (left), Founder & Chairman of HF Companies, which currently operate in 30 states, producing 154 newspapers in 154 cities. “We are building a scaled, multi-platform network that combines print, digital, and broadcast to deliver trusted journalism and meaningful community connection,” Hoffmann noted. “Talk radio is a natural extension of that vision and a powerful driver of our long-term growth.”
“This transaction is a win for both companies as well as for St. Louis listeners and partners,” said Kelli Turner, President & CEO of Audacy. “For Audacy, it reflects the strength and value of these outstanding brands as we focus our investments on strategic initiatives. We remain a leader in local audio across the country, and we’re confident the St. Louis group will continue to thrive under Hoffmann’s stewardship.”
Hoffmann added, “With our planned acquisitions, combined with our existing portfolio of 154 newspapers and our expansion into radio, we expect to become the second-largest media company in the United States by year-end.”
As part of the proposed transaction, Hoffmann is bringing back Becky Domyan as Market President for the Greater St. Louis brands. Domyan exited in April when Audacy eliminated its traditional Market Manager roles in favor of 10 Regional Vice Presidents, all reporting to a group of five Regional Presidents. The transaction remains subject to FCC approval.
