Scripps to Produce Exclusive Originals for Snapchat

Scripps Networks Interactive has firmed up a deal with Snap Inc. that will bring new food- and home-related programming to Snapchat’s Discover platform.

Scripps’ Food Network was one of the original publishers for Snapchat’s launch of Discover in January 2015 and has since been creating Publisher Stories for the platform. Under this newly expanded deal, several of Scripps Networks’ popular TV networks, including Food Network and HGTV, will begin developing and producing shows for Snapchat.

“Snapchat’s distinctive mobile platform provides an ideal environment for us to touch millennials and centennials who may not yet be hooked on our premium offerings,” said Henry Ahn, Scripps Networks’ president of content distribution and marketing. “We’re finding more and more new fans among the hard-to-reach mobile natives.”

“HGTV and Food Network are masters of addictive and inventive TV, and it makes perfect sense to bring that programming expertise to Snapchat shows,” said Nick Bell, the VP of content for Snap Inc. “Scripps has been an important partner for us since our launch of Discover, and we’re thrilled that Snapchatters will soon have access to more entertaining content from some of their most popular networks.”

Kathleen Finch, Scripps Networks’ chief programming, content and brand officer, added: “Our Scripps Lifestyle Studios content is really resonating on this platform, so we welcome this opportunity to further expand our mobile influence. Not only does this bridge our television brands to digital, it allows us to create entirely unique content tailored for the next generation of food and home enthusiasts.”

Separately, Scripps Networks Interactive reached an agreement to acquire leading millennial-focused media company Spoon University. The deal will enable Scripps Networks Interactive to further strengthen its digital business in the food space.

“Spoon University captures the grassroots passion for food and community that is so important to millennials today,” said Finch. “Food Network has become a significant force in digital and social food storytelling over the course of the last year, and this acquisition will provide us with the opportunity to build content, community and brand as we seek to accelerate our strategy in the sector.”

“Food Network has always been a brand that we have looked up to, and over time we have seen that our teams share similar energy, curiosity and passion,” said Mackenzie Barth, CEO and co-founder of Spoon University. “We couldn’t be more excited to continue to build the Spoon brand alongside our new colleagues as part of the Scripps Networks Interactive organization.”

“We started Spoon with the mission of using technology and community to build the ultimate food resource for millennials, and we’re excited to pair that with Scripps Network Interactive’s brand power to create new and exciting business opportunities,” commented Sarah Adler, CTO and co-founder of Spoon University.