Harbottle & Lewis advise Channel 4 on joint venture with Emap plc

Leading media and entertainment lawyers, Harbottle & Lewis, have acted for Channel 4 on a joint venture agreement with media group Emap plc. The aim of the deal, in which Channel 4 has agreed to buy 50 per cent of Box Television Limited, Emap's music television business, for a headline figure of £28 million, is to create the UK's number one music television provider.

In addition to operating and developing the seven digital music channels currently run by Box Television, which include The Hits, Q and Kerrang!, the joint venture will look to exploit new and emerging digital growth opportunities beyond traditional broadcast revenue streams. It will benefit from Channel 4's current music-based content which includes coverage of festivals such as V, O2 and the Isle of Wight and its expertise in digital channel and platform management together with Emap TV's brands and distribution knowledge. Channel 4 and Emap will have equal representation on the joint venture's board.

The deal was led by corporate partner, Tim Parker, who was assisted by Adam Mitton and Lee Gage in respect of the broadcasting and other commercial arrangements and by Emily Pritty in the Employment group.

Earlier this month, Harbottle & Lewis advised Channel 4 in relation to their participation in the successful bid for the second national digital multiplex licence awarded by Ofcom in 2007. Under the terms of the Channel 4 led bid, the consortium's offering will include three 4-branded digital radio stations, E4 Radio, Channel 4 Radio and Pure4, which are scheduled to launch in 2008.

Tim Parker commented "We are delighted to have been able to assist Channel 4 on its deal. It was a new departure for them to structure an investment in this way and involved a high degree of legal complexity. It is an exciting venture in a key area for Channel 4 going forward."

For further information, please contact Tim Parker on 020 7667 5000 or email tim.parker@harbottle.com