Radio broadcasting and digital media company focused on Christian and conservative programming.
Acquired by Ares Management2019-03-22
Niche broadcaster serving Christian and conservative audiences with specialized content
Salem Media Group's Christian and conservative radio programming will likely see a significant decline in quality and depth of coverage as the company implements cost-cutting measures like newsroom layoffs and content consolidation across its stations
Investigative journalism focused on issues important to Christian and conservative audiences will likely be dramatically reduced or eliminated entirely
The company will likely implement paywalls and reduce print frequency or eliminate print editions of its publications, making it harder for loyal listeners and readers to access the specialized content they seek
The overall tone and perspective of Salem Media Group's content will likely shift away from its original niche focus as the company tries to appeal to a broader, more mainstream audience in order to boost revenues
Acquisition announced with promises of 'investment', followed by first round of newsroom layoffs and 'restructuring' announced
Print schedules reduced, more content cuts implemented across radio and digital properties, paywalls added or increased
Quality decline becomes obvious to loyal consumers, with reduced depth of coverage, fewer investigative reports, and a noticeable shift away from the company's Christian and conservative roots
Other companies that followed a similar path after PE acquisition
Consumers who value the specialized Christian and conservative content produced by Salem Media Group should voice their concerns to the company and advocate for the preservation of high-quality, in-depth reporting and programming
Consumers should be prepared to seek alternative sources of Christian and conservative media if the quality of Salem Media Group's content declines significantly under private equity ownership
Consumers should consider supporting independent, non-profit media organizations that are focused on serving niche audiences with specialized content and investigative journalism
Look for family-owned or employee-owned businesses