Scripps profits up 15%

Scripps Systems Interactive, parent in the Food Network using one of the final independent cable network groups, mentioned profits last quarter rose nearly 15% to $178 million driven by greater advertising and affiliate costs. Revenue elevated 10% to $553 million. The Knoxville, Tenn. company reported an 11% begin ad revenue to $394 million and affiliate costs of $147 million, up 5.7%. Expenses rose 6% to $296 million on greater programming amortization expense and charges connected with acquisition of its UKTV deal. Among the nets, flagship Food Network saw revenues of $204 million, up 15% HGTV had revenue of $191 million, up 8.1% Travel Funnel revenue dipped 1.4% to $67 million DIY Network hopped 18% to $27 million Cooking Funnel, was up 14% at $17.8 million and Great American Country fell 15% to $6.6 000 0000. Revenue from digital companies, including high quality websites, rose 4.1% to $30.4 million. For 2012, Scripps mentioned it sees total revenue rising 8-10%. It predicted programming expenses will rise 13-15%, with marketing and investment trading up 10-12%. Contact the number newsroom at news@variety.com