CBS Interactive said it is joining forces with the CBS O&O television stations, CBS Television affiliate station and CBS Radio to make the CBS Audience Network "hyperlocal." That includes the websites of 29 owned television, 144 radio, and up to 183 affiliated stations. While some have already launched, most of the partnership sites will be up and running at the start of CBS Television Network’s fall season later this month.
"Leveraging CBS’s local footprint is a big step forward for the Network," said Joe Ferreira, Senior Vice President and General Manager, CBS Audience Network. He said consumers and advertisers continue to benefit from CBS’ open, non-exclusive syndication strategy. At the same time, CBS local sites gain direct access to CBS video content and boost engagement. The CBS Audience Network will benefit by receiving local content from the TV and radio stations.
"Making CBS affiliates a significant partner in the CBS Audience Network is key to the Affiliate Association’s ongoing efforts to maximize the sales and promotion value of our local and network on-air and on-line assets, expanding the service and reach that each CBS affiliate provides to its audiences and its advertisers," Said Scott Blumenthal, Executive Vice President, Television, LIN Television Corp., and Chair, CBS Television Network Affiliates Association.
"Video is fast becoming the most sought-after element on the Internet and our stations are in a great position to capitalize on this latest trend," said David Goodman, President, Marketing, CBS Radio.
The previously announced online partners making up the syndication side of the CBS Audience Network includes AOL, Microsoft, CNET Networks, Comcast, Joost, Bebo, Netvibes, Sling Media and Veoh. All CBS content on the CBS Audience Network is advertiser supported and free to the consumer. All content will be available domestically with select clips and full-length sports programming distributed worldwide.
