Channel 14 Owner Acquires Billboard Company for Tens of Millions

Yitzhak Mirilashvili, the controlling shareholder of Channel 14, has expanded his media empire by acquiring a controlling stake in the outdoor advertising company "Deal Tov." The purchase, made through his "Oferim Media" company, represents a significant move beyond television and radio into the broader Israeli advertising market.

The deal, finalized in early July, saw Mirilashvili's group acquire approximately 51% of "Deal Tov" from businessman Gal Chatzor, who will retain the remaining 49%. Financial news outlet "Calcalist" reported the transaction is valued between 40 and 60 million shekels.

The timing of the acquisition is strategic, as election periods are considered prime time for the billboard industry due to high political demand. "Deal Tov" holds an estimated market share of up to 20%, boasting around 850 strategically located billboards across Israel, including high-traffic areas like Ayalon Highway and Geha Junction, and enjoys a monopoly on advertising in cities such as Rosh Ha'ayin, Nahariya, Giv'at Shmuel, and Kiryat Shmona.

This acquisition adds to Mirilashvili's extensive media holdings, which already include Kol Chai radio, the "Olam Katan" newspaper, an economics channel, and the 04 website. Natanel Simantov and Shmuel Hillman Tikotsky, CEO of Kol Chai radio, have been appointed as directors representing the buyers. Industry insiders believe the synergy between Mirilashvili's existing media platforms and the extensive billboard network will grant his group unprecedented advertising power and influence.