A Boise, Idaho-based radio broadcasting company with stations here and in the Magic Valley region that includes Twin Falls is venturing into a neighboring state, thanks to a deal announced late Wednesday.
Iliad Media Group Holdings Inc., structured in a manner in which its employees are owners thanks to a stock ownership plan (ESOP), is acquiring The Montana Radio Company.
“This strategic move expands Iliad’s footprint in the media market and enhances job security and career longevity for all employees involved,” Iliad said.
When the transaction is complete, pending regulatory approval, Iliad Media Group will effectively absorb The Montana Radio Company’s nine Helena, Mont., radio properties.
With an asset purchase agreement yet to be filed with the Commission, Iliad, led by President/CEO Darrell Calton, is acquiring the following facilities:
- KIMO-FM 107.3
- KBLL-FM 99.5 “The Bull”
- KMTX-FM 105.3
- KMXM-FM 102.3
- KZMT-FM 101.1 “Z101”
- KCAP-AM 950 and K240EM at 95.9 MHz
- K242CX at 96.3 MHz
- K235BW at 94.9 MHz
- K283BP at 104.5 MHz
Calton said, “We are excited to welcome The Montana Radio Company into the Iliad family. Our shared values of employee ownership and community-focused broadcasting make this merging of radio cultures so promising.”
Kevin Terry, CEO of The Montana Radio Company, added, “Joining forces with Iliad Media Group aligns perfectly with our vision of fostering a workplace where employees have a stake in the company’s success. This move ensures that our team in Montana will enjoy not only job security but also pride in ownership.”
The Montana Radio Company will retain its current management structure and iconic branding all while maintaining local ownership in Helena through its employees.
Iliad’s Boise radio stations include KSRV-FM “96.1 BOB FM,” KQBL-FM “101.9 The Bull,” KZMG-FM “My 102.7,” KKOO-AM and its FM translator as “101.5 KOOL FM,” and KWYL-FM “Wild 101,” in addition to three audio brands using FM translators with Sports, Active Rock and Alternative programming, respectively.
Iliad’s Twin Falls, Idaho radio brands are comprised of Top 40 KTPZ “Music Monster 92.7,” KIKX “104.7 BOB FM,” KYUN “102.1 The Bull,” KIRQ “Sunny 106.7,” and two FM translators bringing Active Rock and Oldies to the market.
