Food Network Hammers Out Details for U.K. Launch

LONDON: On November 9, Food Network will launch in the U.K. as part of a joint-venture deal between Scripps Networks Interactive and Chello Zone, and the channel is on the lookout to commission original British content.

At launch, the network will include a mix of U.S. and U.K. acquisitions. The shows will feature appearances by British celebrity chefs like Jamie Oliver in the U.K. premiere of Iron Chef America and Nigella Lawson in Nigella Express. Danny Boom’s Rescue Chef is also in the lineup. From the U.S., celebrity chefs to be featured on the channel include Ina Garten, with her show Barefoot Contessa, Tyler Florence, Giada De Laurentiis and Rachael Ray.

“Food Network will be a fantastic addition to U.K. television for all foodies and for those who simply enjoy entertaining TV,” said Dermot Shortt, the CEO of Chello Zone. “As well as airing the best food programming from the U.S. and the U.K., we are looking forward to working with a roster of famous British chefs and commissioning original U.K. content to make this an irresistible TV destination.”

“This is the first of what we hope will be many ventures to expand the global footprint of Scripps Networks Interactive,” added Greg Moyer, the president of the company’s international development subsidiary, Scripps Networks International. “Food Network is an obvious and logical choice for international distribution given its universal appeal and tremendous brand power. Our objective is to aggregate an engaged and growing audience of passionate ‘foodies’ across the globe.”