Helmut Thoma planning network of German regional channels

Former RTL Germany chief Helmut Thoma is planning to launch a national network of regional channels in Germany, according to local reports.

Thoma and business partner Helmut Kaiser’s Volks-TV venture has received a green light from media regulator the KEK and regional licensing group ZAK. The pair plan to raise €30 million from outside investors, including US-based companies. Thoma reportedly plans to target about 11 million homes initially, delivering common national programming to a series of regional affiliates.