Connoisseur Media has announced the successful closing of its acquisition of Alpha Media, following Federal Communications Commission approval on August 13. The deal adds 205 stations to Connoisseur’s existing portfolio of Connecticut and Long Island properties, giving the company control of 216 stations across 47 markets and positioning it among the top 10 U.S. radio broadcasters by both station count and revenue.
The expanded network now reaches an estimated 20% of the U.S. radio audience, creating a significant national platform for local broadcasting. Notable new markets include San Antonio, Portland, Salt Lake City, San Jose, Palm Springs, and Louisville, complementing Connoisseur’s long-standing presence in Fairfield and New Haven counties in Connecticut and Nassau and Suffolk counties on Long Island, New York.
“Local broadcasting has always been at the heart of what we do,” said Jeff Warshaw, CEO of Connoisseur Media. “Connoisseur started as a company rooted in radio serving local markets. Today we’re taking that same local-focused philosophy, which now includes our digital marketing and multi-platform expertise, to some of the most dynamic markets in the country.”
Warshaw emphasized that the acquisition is designed to “assemble the scale and resources to keep radio strong, serve our communities, empower our employees, and create even more value for advertisers.”
In a statement, Warshaw also highlighted the talent and commitment of Alpha Media’s teams. “As I have traveled the country to meet our new colleagues in the Alpha Media markets, I have been impressed with their dedication to radio and their communities. I am excited to be associated with such a great group of people,” he said.
Financial and legal advisors played a key role in the transaction. Guggenheim Securities served as financial advisor, while legal counsel was provided by Winston & Strawn, Wiley Rein, McDermott Will & Schulte, and Wilkinson Barker Knauer. Financing for the acquisition was provided by Brigade Capital Management and Sienna Lending.
With this acquisition, Connoisseur Media positions itself to compete more effectively in an evolving media landscape, combining heritage radio brands with digital and multi-platform capabilities. The company now oversees one of the largest local broadcasting networks in the U.S., reflecting a strategy that prioritizes both scale and community engagement, as ranks as a top ten radio broadcaster in the United States.
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.
