PlanetOut Inc.,
parent company of The Advocate and Out
magazines, announced Wednesday that it had entered
into a binding letter of intent with an affiliate of
here! Networks to acquire PlanetOut's magazine and book
publishing businesses. A definitive agreement is expected to
be finalized by April 30, and the transaction is
expected to close on or before August 31.
"We are extremely
pleased that here! Networks will be the new parent
company for our publishing business," PlanetOut CEO Karen
Magee said in the press release. "Here! Networks
cofounders Stephen P. Jarchow and Paul Colichman have
long been admirers and strong supporters of The
Advocate and Out, and we believe that our
magazines, their associated websites, and Alyson books
will thrive under here!'s ownership."
"Most
important, we believe that the divestiture of our publishing
businesses will enable PlanetOut Inc. to devote all of our
attention and resources to our core online businesses,
Gay.com and PlanetOut.com," Magee added. "This
will ensure that all of our powerful brands have a
better chance to grow and prosper and will ultimately
produce greater value for our shareholders."
"In adding
PlanetOut's magazine and book publishing group to our
television, film, and online media properties, we continue
the LGBTQ legacy that the men and women of PlanetOut
have built and nurtured," Jarchow and Colichman said
in a joint statement. "We recognize the
responsibility and opportunity that LGBTQ media has in
making a meaningful and positive impact on society and
culture. We will protect and expand these iconic
brands with integrity, passion and commitment."
(The Advocate)