Zimmer Communications and Mid-West Family plan to combine their Springfield radio operations, a move that would create a larger locally owned multimedia organization serving southwest Missouri.
The transaction remains subject to Federal Communications Commission approval, according to a community announcement. Until that approval is granted, both companies will continue operating independently.
Mid-West Family's Springfield properties include KKLH (104.7 The Cave), KOMG (105.1 The Bull), KOSP (102.1 The Won) and KQRA (Q92.9 Springfield's Rock Station), as well as the Around the Ozarks multimedia brand.
Zimmer Communications owns and operates KTXR (98.7 The Dove), KWTO-AM (960 AM, 93.3 FM News/Talk), KWTO-FM (101.3 Real Country), KZMO (93.7 The Stage)
and KBFL (1060 AM, 96.9 FM The Jock).
If approved, Zimmer Communications would manage nine radio stations across the Springfield market while expanding its portfolio of local news, entertainment, digital marketing and advertising services.
Combined operation would expand market reach
The companies said the agreement would bring together two locally owned media organizations with long histories in the Ozarks.
According to the announcement, the combined operation would be positioned to invest in local programming, marketing services and employees while offering expanded advertising opportunities for businesses across the region.
John Zimmer, president of Zimmer Communications, said the companies share similar priorities.
"This is an exciting opportunity to bring together two organizations that share the same values and a deep commitment to local broadcasting," said John Zimmer, Zimmer Communications. "Both companies have built their reputations by serving local businesses, supporting our communities, and investing in exceptional employees. By combining our strengths, we'll be able to offer advertisers even more effective marketing solutions while continuing to provide the trusted local content our audiences rely on."
FCC approval expected before end of process
Mike Paterson, president of Mid-West Family, said the partnership represents a new chapter for the companies' Springfield operations.
"After more than 35 years of ownership in the Springfield market, partnering with another legendary Missouri ownership group to create the next chapter of local media service to our communities is incredibly exciting," Paterson said. "As the local radio and media landscape continues to evolve, bringing these two organizations together creates even greater opportunities for our advertising partners, our communities, and especially our employees who have helped make both companies successful."
The companies said they anticipate receiving FCC approval before the end of the approval process outlined in the announcement.
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This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Springfield radio groups plan merger under Zimmer Communications
