Branson media companies merge

Branson media companies Earls Family Broadcasting and The Vacation Channel have merged, a partnership impacting audiences and advertising clients in southwest Missouri and northwest Arkansas.

Charles Earls and his wife, Scottie, since 1986 have operated Earls Family Broadcasting, which manages KHOZ, KRZK and KOMC radio stations. Their son, Scott Earls, founded and operates The Vacation Channel, which launched Branson's first tourist TV network in 1989, according to a news release.

“We are positioning the best of our businesses to bring enhancements to our listeners and viewers, while giving our radio and TV clients more synergistic service with increased opportunities for exposure on both mediums,” said Charles Earls, president and CEO of Earls Family Broadcasting, in the release.

Earls Family Broadcasting will manage day-to-day operations, sales and client functions of both entities, and most client services will move into The Vacation Channel's studios in north Branson. The radio station studios will continue to operate in downtown Branson. Scott Earls will concentrate largely on strategic planning for both TV and radio, the release said.

“Intercept marketing is a term we all utilize in the Branson area. It allows clients to ensure that the millions of tourists who come to the lakes area hear and see their advertising messages via our broadcasting entities that showcase theaters, restaurants, attractions and businesses,” Scott Earls said of the power of the merged entity.[[In-content Ad]]