Vista Radio Announces the Acquisition of CAB-K Broadcasting

Vista Radio, Canada’s most locally focused media company with an independent network of 48 radio stations and 37 digital properties in three provinces and the Northwest Territories, today announced that it has entered into an agreement to purchase CAB-K Broadcasting, owner and operators of Country 96.5 (CKLJ) and Rock 104.5 (CKJX) in Olds, Alberta and Country 106.5 (CKVG) in Vegreville, Alberta.

“We are very excited to add these important and well managed stations to the Vista Family” said Bryan Edwards, President of Vista Radio. “Our passion and commitment to local programming and local service is the cornerstone to our success and the reason why we can continue to grow. It’s also the reason why our company was a great match for the CAB-K markets. We both share the philosophy that only local media can serve a community best. We look forward to continuing what CAB -K has started and enhancing their services with our own”.

CAB-K Broadcasting was formed by Brian and Melanie Hepp in 2004 to begin broadcasting and serving the community of Olds, AB with their first station Country 96.5 (CKLJ). Then in 2007, they were awarded the FM license in Olds for Rock 104.5 (CKJX). Finally in 2016 they launched Country 106.5 (CKVG) in Vegreville, AB.

“After meeting with Vista Radio and reviewing their stations and business philosophy, we are confident our two companies are well matched.” said Brian Hepp. “Vista shares with us our commitment to local service to every town and city from where they broadcast. The proposed acquisition of CKLJ, CKJX and CKVG by Vista Radio will not only continue our original goals for these stations and the communities of Olds and Vegreville, but we are convinced it will also strengthen them with added resources and opportunities”.

Every Vista station proudly serves its community with entertainment and locally generated relevant content emphasizing information that impacts the local audience - news, weather, road reports and events. A core operating principle for Vista is that the stations and local websites be accessible and approachable to listeners and readers, both in the content they deliver and how the stations and sites operate.

Vista adopts a philosophy of service, recognizing the central role media plays in the community. In addition to its local focus, Vista is committed to innovation, employing local, and serving local businesses and the community at large and looks forward to serving the new area they will soon be operating within. The transaction is pending CRTC approval.

About Vista Radio - vistaradio.ca

With this acquisition, Vista Radio operates over 50 radio stations broadcasting across 57 transmitters located in B.C., Alberta, Ontario, and the Northwest Territories. Vista also owns and operates more than 30 locally focused news, information, and events portals for its communities. With more than 250 employees, the Vista team is passionately dedicated to their communities and is committed to generating exceptional local media.

For more information:

Gary Russell

Vice President, Vista Radio 250-564-2524