Four of Japan’s regional television broadcasters are merging to create a new holding company, marking a significant consolidation in the country’s fragmented media landscape. Sapporo Television, Chukyo Television, Yomiuri Television, and Fukuoka Broadcasting will combine operations under Yomiuri Chukyo FS Holdings Inc. by April 2025.
The restructuring comes as Japanese broadcasters face mounting pressure from streaming services and a shrinking population. The new entity, FYCS, will operate as an affiliate of Nippon Television Holdings Inc., with Kimio Maruyama as chairman and Akira Ishizawa as president.
The deal requires shareholder approval and regulatory clearance under Japan’s broadcasting and antitrust laws. Existing shareholders will receive new FYCS shares in exchange for their current holdings.
The merger reflects broader challenges in Japan’s media sector, where traditional broadcasters are struggling to maintain viewership and advertising revenue. Each station currently serves distinct regional markets, from Hokkaido in the north to Kyushu in the south.
Industry analysts say the consolidation could help the stations cut costs and invest in digital content, though success will depend on maintaining local programming while achieving operational efficiencies.
