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Premiere to retire 15 programs, services; lay off 100

In a surprise round of Fall cleaning, Premiere Radio Networks announced 11/4 it will be will retiring 15 products and services at the end of the year and will eliminate 100 positions in the process. Some of the programs, like Rockline, have been around for 20 years; Rhythm Top 30 Countdown with Ellen K for eight. Premiere President/COO Kraig Kitchin took a hard look at the lowest revenue generators as well as those whose lifespan had been played out. The recent conclusion of the network radio upfront served as the real litmus test for some in his decision-making.

"In our opinion, many of these products are in the place where their relevancy is past the peak where it makes sense for new affiliations to come on board," Kitchin told RBR.

The list:

Rhythm Top 30 Countdown with Ellen K

Rockline

American Top 40 Flashback: The '80s

Audio Timeline

Guestlink Interview Service

Jim Cramer's Real Money

Spotlight On Specials

Premiere Platinum Prep Service

The Girly Sheet Prep Service

Five production libraries--Butchers, Beats and Breaks; Extreme Cuts; Fifth Floor; Incredible Country and Noise Generator

"We deeply regret the personal and professional dislocation of the people who staff and supervise these programs and services," Kitchin added in a release.