Alpac Capital and United Group Finalize Agreement on Adria News Network Sale

Alpac Capital, an international investment firm, and Summer Parent S.à r.l., the ultimate parent company of United Group, announced a significant agreement regarding the sale of Adria News S.à r.l. (ANN) on May 29, 2026. This transaction not only highlights the strategic alignment of both firms but also aims to bolster editorial independence and the integrity of media operations in the region.

Alpac Capital brings a robust track record of managing media assets globally, notably holding a major stake in Euronews, which reaches over 1.5 billion viewers across more than 160 nations in 19 different languages. The acquisition of ANN positions it to leverage a strong platform and a proprietor dedicated to editorial principles, thus ensuring long-term independence for these important media assets.

In recent months, United Group has centralized its media operations in the Balkans under the independent brand ANN. This organization is governed by a board of directors and an editorial council made up of seasoned media professionals from around the world. For instance, ANN encompasses award-winning entities, including N1, Nova S, Vijesti, and Danas, which collectively inform a diverse audience exceeding 16 million individuals. This media structure promotes transparency, stability, and resilience in operations, thereby aligning with the long-term commitments made by United Group and BC Partners in 2025.

United Group’s decision to seek potential buyers followed the establishment of ANN, receiving numerous unsolicited offers for its media properties. Alpac Capital emerged as the preferred candidate, presenting the best value while adhering to the governance and independence frameworks set forth during the formation of ANN. The share purchase agreement includes safeguards to maintain ANN’s editorial and functional independence, ensuring a clear separation between commercial interests and journalistic integrity, complemented by an independent advisory board.

As a primary media and telecommunications provider in Southeast Europe, United Group intends to continue refining its strategic operations within key EU markets. They are focused on enhancing their telecommunications and media growth initiatives, ultimately generating long-term value for all stakeholders. Recent first-quarter results indicate ongoing progress and value creation, reflecting the organization’s robust performance amidst a transformative landscape.

A spokesperson for United Group expressed that this transaction aligns with their 2025 objective to secure the long-term independence of their media assets. Post-transaction, United Group plans to intensify its focus on generating value across its telecommunications, media, and technology sectors in the European markets.

Commenting on the acquisition, a representative from Alpac Capital voiced, “Acquiring ANN significantly enhances our media asset portfolio, continuing our commitment to investing in growth and development. We uphold the values of factual, neutral, and independent journalism, underpinned by sound financial operations.” They also underscored their commitment to maintaining journalistic integrity, echoing the values that will be carried forward through ANN's editorial direction as it navigates the evolving media landscape.

The completion of this transaction is contingent upon standard regulatory approvals and is expected to finalize in the second half of 2026, marking a pivotal moment in the media sector of Southeast Europe. Both Alpac Capital and United Group seem poised to shape the future of media production and distribution in a way that embraces editorial independence while ensuring operational stability and economic viability for years to come.