The media landscape in Farmington, New Mexico, is undergoing a significant shift as the Farmington Daily Times, a long-standing local news source, has been acquired by Ballantine Communications Inc. This acquisition signals a new chapter for the Daily Times and for local journalism in the Four Corners region. Gannett Co., Inc., the national media conglomerate that owned the Farmington Daily Times as part of its USA TODAY NETWORK, finalized the purchase agreement to transfer ownership to Ballantine Communications, a media company already familiar with the local market through its Tri-City Record publication.
Ballantine Communications, which launched the Tri-City Record last year to cover news in Aztec, Bloomfield, and Farmington, is set to officially take over the Farmington Daily Times on June 1. The financial details of the acquisition remain undisclosed. The company has announced plans to merge the Farmington Daily Times operations with the Tri-City Record, effectively consolidating local news coverage under the Ballantine Communications umbrella starting June 1. This merger aims to strengthen local reporting and provide a more comprehensive news source for the communities of northwest New Mexico.
John Blais, CEO and Publisher of Ballantine Communications, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition and the opportunity to serve the Farmington community. “We look forward to welcoming the Farmington Daily Times’ readers and winning them over with our commitment to credible and comprehensive local reporting,” Blais stated, highlighting the company’s dedication to quality journalism. This statement suggests a focus on maintaining and enhancing the journalistic integrity that readers have come to expect from local news sources.
The Farmington Daily Times has a rich history in the region, dating back to its founding as the Daily News in Farmington in 1949. Its roots extend even further, with a lineage of local newspapers serving the community since the late 1800s. Gannett’s ownership began in 2015, and now, the paper transitions to local ownership under Ballantine Communications.
For current subscribers of the Farmington Daily Times, the transition means their subscriptions will be moved to the Tri-City Record. These subscriptions will be adjusted to reflect the Tri-City Record’s print schedule, which is currently three days a week. The company has provided a contact point for subscribers with inquiries or concerns, directing them to help.daily-times.com/contact-us for assistance.
Gannett officials have indicated their commitment to ensuring a smooth transition for both readers and employees during this ownership change. Michael Anastasi, Gannett VP of Local News, emphasized Gannett’s broader mission and the strategic rationale behind the sale. “Gannett’s mission is to empower and enrich communities across the country, and our business decisions are driven by our commitment to best serve them,” Anastasi explained. He also acknowledged the contributions of the Farmington Daily Times team, stating, “We are grateful for the support of our readers and advertisers throughout the years and thank our employees for their dedication and hard work.”
This sale is part of a larger trend within Gannett, which has divested several publications to local and regional owners following its acquisition by GateHouse Media in 2019. Gannett’s strategy involves streamlining its portfolio while focusing on digital growth and maintaining a nationwide network of community publications. The acquisition of the Farmington Daily Times by Ballantine Communications represents a shift towards local media ownership and a renewed focus on community-based journalism in Farmington, New Mexico.
