Saga Radio bought by Guardian Media Group

[BGonaSTICK]

The Guardian Media Group's radio division has bought Saga Radio from Saga Group for an undisclosed sum.

Saga operates three UK stations, in the East Midlands, West Midlands and Glasgow, which brings the total operated GMG to 12. Saga also has plans to launch a fourth station in the north west in 2007.

John Myers, chief executive of GMG Radio, said the group had plans to rename and rebrand Saga but had not yet decided on details.

He added: "These stations fit well within our group, and with dual housing and re-branding we can deliver powerful synergies. Our format change in London will allow us to develop a near-national brand.

"We expect that Century and Real Radio, and the launch of our new north east station, will ensure that GMG becomes the third largest radio group in total hours by the end of next year, with a broad appeal to all adults over 25.

"It is our intention to re-brand the Saga stations in due course, to a name yet to be announced."

Source: Digital Spy