MUMBAI: Scripps Networks Interactive is acquiring Travel Channel International (TCI), an independent company headquartered in the United Kingdom, for ?65 million as part of its plans to expand its lifestyle portfolio to Asia and Europe.

The company, which has a clutch of channels in the food, travel and lifestyle genres, is eyeing India entry ever since its deal with NDTV collapsed in May 2010. Scripps had agreed to buy 69 per cent of NDTV Lifestyle Ltd for $55 million.

Scripps expects to complete the transaction with Travel Channel in the second quarter of 2012, subject to regulatory approvals.

?We are looking forward to integrating Travel Channel International into Scripps Networks Interactive?s portfolio of popular lifestyle networks,? said Scripps Networks Interactive chairman, president and chief executive officer Kenneth W. Lowe.

?TCI brings unique value to us as we establish our brands in the global media marketplace. We?re enthusiastic about sharing our lifestyle programming expertise internationally, engaging a new set of passionate media consumers overseas, and increasing our footprint in Europe and Asia, building on the solid foundation we?ve established for the continued international growth of our brands.?

Formed in 2004, TCI has affiliate agreements with approximately 850 distributors. The company?s 46 full-time employees in London will join Scripps Networks Interactive at the completion of the transaction.

TCI distributes the Travel Channel brand in 20 languages across Europe, Africa, Middle East and Asia Pacific regions besides producing and commissioning original travel programming for distribution in 91 countries.

?Scripps Networks Interactive is the natural home for Travel Channel International,? said Richard Wolfe, chief executive of TCI. ?Combining TCI?s reach and resources in our territories with those of SNI?s U.S. Travel Channel creates a new worldwide brand with powerful synergies in programming and advertising.?