WTVG-TV Company Profile

Background

WTVG-TV, branded as 13abc, is a prominent television station serving the Toledo, Ohio, market. Established on July 21, 1948, it holds the distinction of being Toledo's first television station. Currently, WTVG operates as an ABC affiliate and is owned by Gray Television, Inc., a leading multimedia company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. The station's mission is to deliver comprehensive news coverage and quality programming to viewers in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan. Over the years, WTVG has maintained a significant presence in the broadcasting industry, adapting to technological advancements and evolving viewer preferences.

Key Strategic Focus

WTVG's strategic focus encompasses:

Comprehensive News Coverage: Producing 43 hours of locally produced newscasts each week, including specialized programs like "Bridges," a local discussion show.

Sports Programming: Airing special Friday night sports programs such as "Football Friday" and "Basketball Friday," highlighting high school sports across Northwest Ohio.

Digital Expansion: Leveraging digital platforms to extend reach and engagement, including the launch of The CW on its second digital subchannel in 2014.

Technological Advancements: Transitioning to high-definition broadcasts and utilizing advanced equipment to enhance viewer experience.

Financials and Funding

In September 2014, Gray Television acquired WTVG-TV from SJL Holdings for $128 million. This acquisition was part of Gray's strategic expansion, increasing its portfolio of television stations and digital assets. The investment aimed to bolster Gray's presence in the Toledo market and enhance WTVG's operational capabilities.

Pipeline Development

WTVG has consistently expanded its programming and services to meet viewer demands:

News Programming: In September 2021, WTVG introduced a 4 p.m. newscast, further increasing its local news coverage.

Digital Subchannels: The station has added multiple digital subchannels, including The CW, MeTV, and others, providing diverse content to its audience.

Technological Upgrades: Transitioned to high-definition newscasts in 2010, enhancing broadcast quality and viewer experience.

Technological Platform and Innovation

WTVG has embraced several technological advancements to maintain its competitive edge:

High-Definition Broadcasting: Upgraded to HD newscasts in 2010, becoming the first station in the Toledo market to do so.

Digital Subchannels: Expanded content offerings through multiple digital subchannels, including The CW, MeTV, and others.

Advanced Equipment: Utilized Sony PDW510 XDCAM camcorders and Jeep Liberty ENG vehicles to enhance news gathering and reporting capabilities.

Leadership Team

As of July 25, 2022, Brad Moses serves as the General Manager of WTVG-TV. His background includes:

Previous Experience: Over 30 years in television broadcasting, including roles as General Manager at stations in Tampa, Florida; Raleigh, North Carolina; and Savannah, Georgia.

Gray Television Tenure: Joined Gray in 2015 as General Manager of KAKE (ABC) in Wichita, Kansas, and later served as General Manager of KWCH (CBS) and KSCW (CW) in Wichita.

Educational Background: Graduate of Bowling Green State University.

Leadership Changes

Brad Moses succeeded Chris Fedele as General Manager of WTVG-TV in July 2022. Fedele transitioned to become the General Manager of Gray's WPTA-TV (ABC/NBC) and WISE-TV (CW) in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The Toledo television market is competitive, with several stations vying for viewership. WTVG's commitment to comprehensive news coverage and community engagement positions it as a leading station in the region.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include:

WTOL (CBS Affiliate): Operated by Tegna Inc., WTOL offers local news and programming, serving as a primary competitor in the market.

WNWO-TV (NBC Affiliate): Owned by Sinclair Broadcast Group, WNWO-TV provides news and entertainment content to the Toledo area.

WUPW (Fox Affiliate): Operated by American Spirit Media and Tegna Inc., WUPW offers additional news and programming options to viewers.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

WTVG has engaged in partnerships to enhance its programming and community presence:

The CW Affiliation: In 2014, WTVG added The CW to its second digital subchannel, expanding its content offerings.

Local Sports Coverage: Collaborated with local sports organizations to broadcast high school football and basketball games, strengthening community ties.

Operational Insights

WTVG's strategic considerations include:

Market Position: Maintaining a leading position in the Toledo market through comprehensive news coverage and community engagement.

Competitive Advantages: Leveraging technological advancements, experienced leadership, and a strong commitment to local content to differentiate from competitors.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, WTVG aims to:

Expand Digital Presence: Enhance digital platforms to reach a broader audience and adapt to changing media consumption habits.

Innovate Content Delivery: Explore new content formats and delivery methods to engage viewers across multiple platforms.

Strengthen Community Engagement: Continue to build strong relationships with the local community through relevant programming and outreach initiatives.