WGBH Boston acquires Public Radio International

The Associated Press, Thursday, July 26, 2012, 11:32am (PDT)

BOSTON (AP) -- Boston public media station WGBH, the producer of such marquee PBS shows as "Nova" and "Frontline," has acquired Minneapolis-based Public Radio International, the companies said Thursday.

Financial details of the acquisition were not immediately available. A statement released by the companies said PRI, the national content producer, network and service provider for public radio, would continue to operate independently as a tax-exempt nonprofit in Minneapolis.

"Joining forces with WGBH will benefit every group PRI serves, including stations, talent, producers and the public. PRI will increase its production of inspiring content, and represent a broader diversity of voices by increasing our investment in our marketing and distribution activities," said Alisa Miller, President and CEO of PRI.

Jon Abbott, president and CEO of WGBH, said, "We are pleased to be part of PRI's future success and its future impact on public media and the nation."

WGBH Radio programming is heard across New England. The company is also the largest content producer for PBS television, with shows also including "Masterpiece" and "American Experience," and it has won numerous Emmy and Peabody awards.

PRI's reach includes more than 900 radio stations nationwide and digital platforms internationally. Among its best known efforts is "This American Life."