Connoisseur Media has swiftly moved to part ways with stations in markets it obtained through its debt assumption-fueled merger with Alpha Media. Now, the company led by Jeffrey Warshaw has engineered another market exit by selling its four radio stations in the capital of Kansas.
Ahead of a LMS filing for FCC approval, Connoisseur announced Monday that it will sell KSAJ-FM “98.5 JACK FM,” KTPK-FM “Country 106.9,” Talk WIBW-AM and Country WIBW-FM 94.5 in Topeka, Ks.
The buyer is “KNZA Inc.,” operating locally as MSC Radio Group, or “Many Signals Communications.” The company is led by owner and President Justin Fluke, who has been associated with MSC Radio Group for nearly 25 years. After joining the management and ownership group in 2014, he assumed the role of President in 2022. Today, six audio brands serving Northeast Kansas are under the MSC banner.
“We’re honored to continue the strong legacy of these outstanding Topeka radio stations,” Fluke said. “They’ve been established leaders in the market and across the state of Kansas for many years, and we’re excited to build on that history while bringing truly local ownership and operation back to the Capital city. As the only radio group operating in Topeka, our focus will be on serving and engaging listeners, supporting local businesses, and strengthening community partnerships. This acquisition allows MSC Radio Group to grow our footprint across Northeast Kansas while continuing our commitment to local news, sports, agriculture, and keeping our communities informed and connected.”
Connoisseur Media says the divestment “aligns with the company’s broader strategic plan following its acquisition of Alpha Media last September, positioning both companies for continued growth and enhanced service to listeners, local businesses, and community partners.”
Warshaw commented, “We’re incredibly proud of the impact these stations have had in Topeka and the connections they’ve built with listeners. “As we continue to refine our portfolio, this agreement allows us to focus our resources on key growth markets while ensuring these stations are well-positioned for the future with KNZA. We’re confident they will continue their legacy of serving the community with a strong emphasis on local engagement, news, and partnerships. It’s an important step in executing our strategy following the Alpha Media acquisition.”
The transaction is pending regulatory approval by the FCC and is expected to close in early summer of this year.
Greg Guy of Tideline Partners LLC served as the exclusive broker in this transaction, representing MSC.
Connoisseur Media had legal representation by Wilkinson Barker Knauer, while KNZA Inc. was represented by Fletcher, Heald & Hildreth.
