MIPCOM – Scripps Networks Interactive Inc. which has identified international expansion as one of its key growth strategies, will launch Food Network in Europe, Africa and the Middle East through a joint venture with Chello Zone. The new Food Network channel, which will be programmed and versioned for specific countries, is expected to launch in the United Kingdom on Sky during the fourth quarter of this year and begin rolling out to the other territories in early 2010. Chello Zone is the leading international thematic channel arm of Chellomedia, the content subsidiary of Liberty Global Inc. “This is the first of what we hope will be many ventures to expand the global footprint of Scripps Networks Interactive,” said Greg Moyer, president of the company’s international development subsidiary, Scripps Networks International. “Food Network is an obvious and logical choice for international distribution given its universal appeal and tremendous brand power. Our objective is to aggregate an engaged and growing audience of passionate ‘foodies’ across the globe.” Under terms of the deal, Scripps Networks Interactive will have controlling interest in the joint venture, while Chello Zone, which is based in London, will be responsible for Food Network’s operations across Europe, Africa and the Middle East. Financial terms of the joint venture were not disclosed with the announcement. Plans for the international version of the Food Network include original programming from the countries and regions it will reach, as well as relevant shows that were produced for US audiences. Food Network will launch in the UK with popular and well-known faces such as Duff Goldman, Ina Garten and Rachael Ray. Original programming on the network will include the international hit series Iron Chef America which features world class chefs such as Mario Batali, Jamie Oliver, Bobby Flay and Masaharu Morimoto. Also included in the launch line up will be a new series – The Best Thing I Ever Ate – featuring famous chefs including Danny Boome, Giada De Laurentiis, Robert Irvine and Rocco DiSpirito.