Pamplin expands community newspaper portfolio with six weekly papers from Eagle Newspapers Inc.
Pamplin Media Group, Oregon's largest community news organization and a subsidiary of R.B. Pamplin Corp., has expanded its reach with the acquisition of six weekly newspapers from Eagle Newspapers Inc., a Salem-based company. The transaction, which was effective immediately, has expanded Pamplin Media Group's presence throughout the Portland area and in Central Oregon. The newspapers included in the acquisition are: the Canby Herald, Madras Pioneer, Molalla Pioneer, Newberg Graphic, Wilsonville Spokesman and Woodburn Independent.
"We are excited to add these outlets to the family of Pamplin community newspapers," said Dr. Robert B. Pamplin Jr., owner of Pamplin Media Group and R.B. Pamplin Corp. "This acquisition strengthens our ability to share important community news with more residents in more places.
"Now, we'll reach half a million print readers each week, and hundreds of thousands more online and through our radio stations," Pamplin added. "This puts us on equal footing, in terms of reach, with any other media in Oregon. With this acquisition, there's no media larger in the state than Pamplin Media Group."
Eagle Newspapers was founded in 1948 by former Oregon Gov. Elmo Smith. Under the leadership of his son, former Congressman Denny Smith, the company grew to 25 holdings in Oregon, Washington and Idaho, including dailies in The Dalles and Sunnyside, Wash. The company also owns four press plants, a mailing service and publishes various other specialty publications and phone books.
"This sale is between two great Oregonians, men who share many of the same ideals, including a passion for community journalism and public service," said Eagle Newspaper President, Tom Lanctot. "We look forward to watching these news outlets continue to grow under the leadership of the Pamplin Media Group."
Pamplin Media Group also owns the Portland Tribune and 17 other newspapers throughout Portland, including newspapers in Gresham, Beaverton, Lake Oswego, Tigard and Clackamas.