Alpac Capital and United Group Reach Agreement for Adria News Network Acquisition

Alpac Capital and United Group Announce Agreement for Adria News Network Acquisition

In a significant move in the media landscape, Alpac Capital, a global investment group, along with Summer Parent S.à r.l., the principal shareholder of United Group, confirmed an agreement today regarding the sale of Adria News S.à r.l. This acquisition carries substantial implications for the future of news media in the region, emphasizing commitments to editorial independence and journalistic integrity.

Alpac Capital has established itself as a major player in international media management, notably as the majority owner of Euronews. This leading news network reaches over 1.5 billion viewers across more than 160 countries and broadcasts in an impressive 19 languages. The acquisition of Adria News Network (ANN) is expected to provide ANN with a robust foundation underpinned by a shared dedication to its editorial principles and long-term independence.

United Group, on the other hand, is recognized as the premier telecommunications and media provider in Southeast Europe. Its majority ownership belongs to global investment firm BC Partners. Just a few months prior, in February 2026, United Group had unified its media assets across Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, Serbia, and Slovenia under the independent brand of ANN. The establishment of ANN included an independent board and an editorial council composed of respected professionals from the media sector, enabling it to maintain a strong commitment to journalism.

The brands within ANN—such as N1, Nova S, Vijesti, and Danas—offer multiplatform news content to a staggering audience of over 16 million people, supported by a skilled workforce of over 1,000 journalists and administrative staff. This strategic governance framework was seen as the best method to safeguard editorial independence while ensuring business stability, transparency, and resilience, as promised by BC Partners and United Group’s management last year. All ANN’s operations are licensed and regulated within the European Union, which illustrates their commitment to maintaining editorial independence.

The announcement also mentions that United Group had received multiple unsolicited bids for its media assets following the creation of ANN. Alpac Capital was chosen for this transaction due to its alignment with the values of governance and independence that were initially established. The Stock Purchase Agreement includes contractual safeguards designed to uphold ANN’s functional and editorial independence. Furthermore, it emphasizes a clear distinction between editorial priorities and commercial interests, along with the existence of an independent external advisory board.

As United Group pursues its key strategy across leading EU markets, it remains devoted to driving growth in the telecommunications and media sectors, thereby creating long-term value for all stakeholders involved. Recent first-quarter results have illustrated consistent growth and value creation within the group.

A spokesperson from United Group remarked, "This transaction fulfills a clear objective set out by the group in 2025—to ensure long-term independence for our media assets. Upon completion, United Group will focus fully on creating value across our telecommunications, media, and technology sectors within European markets."

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Alpac Capital stated, "ANN represents a significant addition to our portfolio of media assets, and we plan to continue investing in its growth and development. At ALPAC, we are committed to maintaining objective, neutral, and independent journalism while ensuring a financially solid and sustainable operation. Our journalists exemplify these principles daily, earning recognition from credible independent organizations."

The overarching narrative of this deal reflects Alpac's commitment to the European integration of the Western Balkans and the reinforcement of ANN's editorial values and long-term vision. These transactions will be subject to standard regulatory approvals and are anticipated to conclude in the latter half of 2026, marking an important chapter in regional media development.