Looks like the media broker scene isn’t as quiet as it seems—there’s still a robust network operating behind the scenes. The National Association of Media Brokers continues to play an essential role in facilitating transactions in the broadcast space.
Ed Henson, a seasoned media broker and the current president of the National Association of Media Brokers (NAMB), believes that the association provides invaluable expertise in navigating the complexities of broadcast transactions. With its membership celebrating 43 brokers from 30 different firms, NAMB has remained a critical resource for both buyers and sellers in the media landscape.
Henson, who owns radio stations in Kentucky, has been involved in broadcasting since the late 20th century and understands the industry’s evolving dynamics. He noted that in the past year alone, brokers facilitated $221 million of the $253 million in total broadcast deals. “The vast majority of the deals that are done are done by brokers, and most of those are members of the NAMB,” Henson stated, emphasizing the association’s significance in the industry.
Despite the shifting tides in the media business, Henson stresses that the focus of NAMB is not on advocacy but on awareness and support. He aims to promote the advantages of using brokers for station transactions. “It’s one set of skills to own a radio station and another to handle operations, but it’s a whole different skill set to buy and sell stations,” he explained, highlighting the need for specialists in this area.
One challenge facing the industry today is finding skilled salespeople, an issue Henson believes needs addressing. He points out the historical abundance of entrepreneurial talent in broadcasting and urges stakeholders to cultivate the next generation of owners. Programs like the NAB Leadership Foundation’s Broadcast Leadership Training have seen success, with 62 graduates going on to own stations since its inception in 2000.
At the NAMB’s annual meetings, members actively discuss strategies to foster station ownership at the local level. Collaborations with state broadcasters associations aim to create initiatives that attract new investors into the market. Recent discussions have included prominent figures from various state broadcasters associations, dedicated to highlighting ownership opportunities.
While some may see media brokers as mere intermediaries, Henson insists they provide much more than basic transactional services. Many brokers conduct evaluations that assist banks in determining the value of stations for financing purposes. This deeper involvement underscores the critical role brokers play in the industry.
Henson also recognizes the importance of ensuring that deals are favorable for both parties involved. “If a deal isn’t good for both sides, it probably won’t happen,” he remarked, underscoring the need for brokers to balance the interests of buyers and sellers.
In conclusion, the work of media brokers, particularly through organizations like NAMB, remains central to facilitating successful transactions in the evolving broadcast marketplace.