Nation TV operator denies channels to close
Lay-offs imminent as NBC seeks partners
The head of the broadcasting network arm of Nation Multimedia Group (NMG) has denied speculation that its Now26 channel is to close soon, but admitted fresh lay-offs are planned.
Adisak Limparungpatanakij, president of Nation Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), said speculation spreading over social media the past week is not true as the company has no plan to shutter its Now26 and Nation TV22 digital TV channels.
“We’re looking for partners to help out because of stiff competition in the digital TV market,” said Mr Adisak. The partner should provide financial support and content production, he said.
Mr Adisak also denied speculation its two channels would merge, as this is against the rules set by the broadcasting regulator.
The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) set auction rules that each licence holder must offer digital TV content as specified on its licence. There are four categories of content: variety high-definition, variety standard-definition (SD), news and children’s programmes.
Nation TV22 is operated under a news licence while Now26 is variety SD.
“The only option for us is to expand content in accordance with each licence category,” he said.
Mr Adisak admitted NBC decided to cut employees in its next lay-off round. He said it would happen soon but would not disclose the number of lay-offs.
“We will offer those being laid off compensation above what the law requires, especially people who have been with The Nation group for 10 years or more,” said Mr Adisak.
“This is not employees’ fault. This is just a situation senior management needs to deal with.
“A lay-off programme is normal practice when an organisation requires re-arrangement. It is essential the company adjust itself to cope with changing business trends and financial realities.”
The parent firm operates two Thai-language newspapers, Krungthep Thurakij and Komchadluek, and one English-language paper, The Nation.
Last year, NMG cut several employees in The Nation editorial and backoffice positions.
He said the company plans to move its print media staff to online media in line with the popularity of new media.
A source who requested anonymity said the company has decided to cut 20% of total NMG employees, mostly staff of Now26 and Komchadluek.
“As print media readership is going down, we have to shift our focus and workforce to higher-potential digital and TV production to survive fierce competition,” said Mr Adisak.