In a move that reflects the continued importance of trusted, local journalism in a rapidly shifting media landscape, DallasNews Corporation (the parent company of The Dallas Morning News and creative agency Medium Giant) agreed to be acquired by Hearst, one of the nation’s most respected and diversified media companies.
The deal, unanimously approved by the boards of both companies, will provide DallasNews shareholders with $14.00 per share in cash, representing a 219% premium over the July 9, 2025, closing price of $4.39. The acquisition is expected to close in the third or early fourth quarter of 2025, pending regulatory and shareholder approvals.
Once finalized, The Dallas Morning News will join Hearst Newspapers, a division that operates 28 dailies and 50 weeklies across the United States. The move not only ensures long-term stability for one of Texas’ most iconic news organizations, but also fits into a clear pattern: Hearst’s deliberate expansion of its regional and vertical media footprint over the past year.
A Growing Portfolio of Trusted Local Media
The acquisition of DallasNews marks the latest in a series of strategic media moves by Hearst. In March 2025, the company acquired the Austin American-Statesman from Gannett, expanding its reach in the fast-growing Central Texas region. That deal followed the February 2025 acquisition of the Republican-American, a family-owned daily newspaper in Waterbury, Connecticut—extending Hearst’s Connecticut cluster.
“This move aligns squarely with our strategy of backing trusted, high-impact local media brands in growth markets,” said Jeff Johnson, president of Hearst Newspapers. “We’re looking forward to working with the teams at The News and Medium Giant.”
These acquisitions signal Hearst’s intent to double down on local journalism at a time when other media companies are retreating. While many chains face declining ad revenue and staffing cuts, Hearst continues to invest in regional reporting and digital transformation, positioning itself as a stabilizing force in an increasingly turbulent industry.
A 140-Year Legacy Meets a Scalable Future
Founded in 1885, The Dallas Morning News has played a defining role in North Texas journalism, earning nine Pulitzer Prizes and generations of loyal readership. Its commitment to investigative reporting and public service journalism has been a cornerstone of civic life in Dallas and beyond.
“For 140 years, The Dallas Morning News has earned enviable status as one of the most trusted and distinguished daily newspapers in the U.S.,” said Grant Moise, CEO of DallasNews Corporation and publisher of The News. “The Hearst family of newspapers shares our values. Their resources, expertise, and commitment to local journalism will ensure The News thrives for decades to come.”
Robert W. Decherd, former chairman and CEO of DallasNews Corporation and current majority shareholder, added, “The News’ 140-year commitment to distinguished journalism has been extraordinarily important to Dallas’ rise as one of America’s great cities. The path forward with Hearst assures The News can continue to serve and inform North Texas for years to come.”
Medium Giant: Marketing Muscle Joins Hearst’s Digital Playbook
In addition to the newsroom, the acquisition includes Medium Giant, the integrated marketing agency wholly owned by DallasNews. With offices in Dallas and Tulsa and a client roster of high-profile brands, the agency has recently won accolades including an AAF Addy, AMA DFW Marketer of the Year, and multiple Davey Awards.
Moise noted the value of synergy between Medium Giant and Hearst’s existing agency-level services: “Our clients will benefit from access to Hearst’s advanced digital expertise and strategic tools, delivering even greater impact and value across campaigns.”
This marketing alignment mirrors another recent Hearst acquisition—MotorTrend Group, purchased in December 2024. That deal brought a high-performance enthusiast brand with 30 million monthly users into Hearst’s lifestyle and automotive portfolio, further extending its reach in vertical content and digital monetization.
Going Private and Looking Forward
Following the closing of the transaction, DallasNews Corporation will become a privately held company, and its shares will no longer trade on Nasdaq. The move is expected to streamline operations and allow for longer-term strategic investment without the pressures of public markets.
Financial and legal guidance for the transaction came from J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and Haynes Boone, serving DallasNews, while Clifford Chance US LLP advised Hearst.
A Bigger Picture: Hearst’s Evolving Media Strategy
From healthcare tech (QGenda) to local news (Austin American-Statesman) to niche passion audiences (MotorTrend), Hearst is crafting a diversified, digitally agile media empire. With more than 200 magazine editions, 35 TV stations, stakes in ESPN, A&E, and global financial data leader Fitch Group, the company continues to lead with purpose and strategic foresight.
By acquiring The Dallas Morning News and Medium Giant, Hearst reinforces its commitment to high-quality journalism and smart regional investment … reinforcing that, in our age of AI and information overload, local trust still matters.
