A+E Networks Establishes Italian Operation

NEW YORK/ROME: A+E Networks has set up a Rome-based company to launch and operate branded channels and services in Italy: A+E Networks Italy.

A+E Networks will launch Crime & Investigation on Sky Italia on December 16. It is working with FOX International Channels to assume full ownership of HISTORY Italy in early 2014.

“The formation of A+E Networks Italy marks an important milestone for A+E Networks as it is our first wholly-owned operation in Europe,” said Nancy Dubuc, the president and CEO of A+E Networks. “We are committed to continued international expansion of our brands and business, and we are excited about growth opportunities throughout Italy and all of Europe.”

“We are very excited for the launch of CI, which is available exclusively to Sky subscribers. We look forward to building a successful relationship with A+E Networks, whom we consider to be one of our key partners, to develop better and stronger content for our service,” added Andrea Scrosati, the executive VP of programming at Sky Italia. “CI further strengthens Sky Italia’s exclusive channel lineup, making our basic offer the most comprehensive in the Italian market.”

Sean Cohan, the executive VP of international, A+E Networks, added, “HISTORY is a leading factual brand in Italy, and we are delighted to broaden our partnership with SKY Italia through the launch of CI, Italy's first factual crime channel. We look forward to growing the full A+E Networks’ channel portfolio in Italy.”