RedBird Capital Partners (“RedBird”) has reached an in-principle agreement to acquire The Telegraph Media Group (“The Telegraph” or “TMG”) at a total enterprise valuation of £500 million, becoming the sole controlling owner. This transaction represents the largest investment in UK print media in a decade and marks the start of a new growth chapter for the 170-year-old iconic title.

RedBird plans to inject capital into The Telegraph’s digital operations to accelerate subscription growth. The strategy emphasizes leveraging best-in-class data analytics and Artificial Intelligence to enhance offerings to existing subscribers and attract new audiences. Building on strong financial foundations laid by the current management, RedBird will collaborate with leadership to grow The Telegraph’s brand internationally, focusing notably on the United States, where RedBird maintains a strong strategic presence in news, media, and sports.

The partnership will also explore new content verticals such as travel and events to capitalize on commercial opportunities from an expanding international and affluent subscriber base.

Expanding a Media and Entertainment Powerhouse

With this acquisition, RedBird further solidifies its status as one of the largest investors in UK media, sports, and entertainment. Its portfolio includes Liverpool FC, All3Media, Fulwell Entertainment, Build a Rocket Boy, and the pending acquisition of UK’s Channel 5 via Skydance Entertainment’s merger with Paramount Global.

Leadership Perspectives

Gerry Cardinale, Founder and Managing Partner of RedBird, stated:
"This transaction marks a new era for The Telegraph, with plans to grow the brand domestically and internationally, invest in technology, and expand the subscriber base. We have tremendous conviction in the growth potential of this cultural institution."

Chris Evans, Editor of The Daily Telegraph, said:
"Our digital subscriptions strategy has driven enormous progress, and with new investment, The Telegraph is poised for unprecedented success."

Anna Jones, CEO of Telegraph Media Group, added:
"RedBird’s growth plans build on our award-winning journalism and innovative, data-driven strategy, unlocking our full potential across the business."

A Vision for Future Growth

RedBird aims to invest heavily in top journalistic talent and accelerate The Telegraph’s digital transformation, building on its recognition as ‘Website of the Year’ at the UK Press Awards for two consecutive years. Expanding global reach, particularly in the US, is central to the growth strategy, leveraging the brand’s authority to attract new audiences seeking quality journalism.

The collaboration across RedBird’s diverse portfolio will foster unique partnership opportunities blending tradition with innovation to cement The Telegraph’s role as a global leader in independent journalism.

Investment and Governance

RedBird is in discussions with select UK-based minority investors experienced in print media, committed to upholding The Telegraph’s editorial values. International Media Investments (IMI) will join as a minority investor pending regulatory approval regarding foreign ownership.

RedBird Capital Partners

Founded in 2014 by Gerry Cardinale, RedBird is a global investment firm managing a portfolio across sports, media, entertainment, and financial services. Notable holdings include Skydance Media, AC Milan, Fenway Sports Group, and leading financial platforms such as Arax and Aquarian. RedBird operates from ten offices worldwide, focusing on transformative investment opportunities.

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