HGTV set for European debut in Poland

Scripps Networks Interactive is due to roll out its home and garden-focused cable network, HGTV, to Poland in January 2017, marking the channel’s European debut.

The network, which broadcasts a variety of how-to shows geared towards home improvement and gardening, will be available via Scripps-owned Polish operator TVN.

The Polish version of the channel will air international programming, as well as new local formats featuring Polish presenter Dorota Szelągowska.

“We’re confident the people of Poland will love the inspirational and aspirational offerings of HGTV that have made it such an entertainment powerhouse in America,” said Jim Samples, president of international for Scripps Networks Interactive.

“HGTV is sure to be another crowning jewel in TVN’s already stellar line-up of informational and lifestyle channels.”

The news follows the launch of HGTV in New Zealand in June and its debut last month in the Middle East and North Africa region in partnership with local pay TV operator BeIN Media Group.

During Scripps’ second quarter earnings call last month, the company identified a “substantial opportunity” for HGTV in Europe, and said that the global rollout of the channel is a “key priority”.

Discussing Scripps’ International Networks segment more generally, Scripps CEO Kenneth Lowe said that Polish broadcaster TVN has been a “transformative acquisition” that has turned this division into a “growing and profitable endeavour”.