Antenna Group one step away from acquiring La Repubblica, reshaping Italy’s and Europe’s media landscape

If completed, the deal would elevate Antenna into a major European media player, while raising questions about editorial independence, jobs, and the future of legacy journalism.

The Antenna Group is edging closer to a landmark acquisition that could significantly alter the European media map. According to reports, the Greek media conglomerate is in advanced negotiations to purchase the Italian daily La Repubblica, alongside radio stations and digital media platforms.

La Repubblica, one of Italy’s most influential newspapers, is approaching its 50th anniversary amid declining circulation and mounting financial pressure—challenges shared by many traditional news outlets across Europe. Despite these difficulties, the paper remains a key reference point for Italy’s progressive readership and political debate.

The potential acquisition is widely seen as a strategic expansion move for Antenna, which has been steadily strengthening its international footprint. Group chairman Theodoros Kyriakou has reportedly held talks with Italian officials, emphasizing commitments to pluralism, editorial autonomy, and journalistic integrity.

Concerns among journalists and staff remain strong. Employee representatives have called for firm guarantees on job security and the preservation of the newspaper’s editorial line, fearing restructuring or cost-cutting following a change in ownership.

The deal could also extend further. Should plans to sell La Stampa to a domestic buyer fall through, Antenna may emerge as a candidate to acquire that title as well—further consolidating its presence in the Italian press market.

Industry observers note that the transaction, estimated at around €140 million, would position Antenna as a cross-border media heavyweight, reflecting a broader trend of consolidation in Europe’s struggling media sector.

As negotiations move toward a critical phase, the outcome is being closely watched—not only in Italy and Greece, but across Europe—where the balance between financial sustainability and independent journalism remains a central challenge for the future of news.

Source: pagenews.gr