Bavaria's Shock Media Takeover Leaves Rivals Stunned and Questioning
Media Group Bavaria has taken over Oberfranken Media Group (mgo) in a surprise deals announced last November. The acquisition, led by CEO Simone Tucci-Diekmann, marks another bold move in Bavaria's ongoing media consolidation. Competitors had expected a bidding war but were caught off guard when mgo's shareholders entered exclusive talks without opening the process.
Until recently, mgo had not appeared an obvious takeover target. Under the leadership of Eva-Maria Bauch and Walter Schweinsberg, the group had shown agility and a successful transformation. Its estimated revenue over the past five years ranged between €150–180 million, with annual figures averaging €30–36 million.
The deals' value remains undisclosed, though industry experts suggest mgo could be worth around €50 million. Without competitive bidding, however, the final price paid by Media Group Bavaria is likely higher. Augsburg's Presse-Druck- und Verlags-GmbH and Nuremberg's Verlag Nürnberger Presse had been expected to bid but were sidelined.
Albrecht Tintelnot, chairman of mgo's shareholders and a 4.2% stakeholder, refused to explain why the group bypassed a competitive sale. The acquisition still needs approval from Germany's Federal Cartel Office, but this is seen as a formality. Media Group Bavaria, known for aggressive deals, reported a €26.2 million profit in 2023 and has a history of expansion, including its flagship Passauer Neue Presse in 2017 and 2021.
The takeover strengthens Media Group Bavaria's position in the regional media market. With no formal bidding process, the deals leaves rivals questioning the company's next strategic move. Approval from regulators is expected soon, clearing the way for further consolidation.
