Sydney pub magnate Arthur Laundy has emerged as the unexpected buyer of Nine Entertainment’s national talkback radio network, acquiring stations including 2GB Sydney, 3AW Melbourne, 4BC Brisbane and 6PR Perth, for $56 million.

The announcement was confirmed by Nine CEO Matt Stanton in a statement to the ASX on Friday.

The sale marks a significant shift in Nine’s media strategy, which is pivoting toward digital growth.

Alongside the radio divestment, Nine is set to acquire digital outdoor advertising company QMS Media for $850 million and convert its northern NSW regional television station, NBN, into a WIN Network-operated affiliate.

“These transactions mark a critical milestone in our Nine2028 transformation, creating a more efficient, digitally powered Nine for consumers, advertisers, shareholders, and staff,” said Stanton (pictured below).

Laundy, 85, built his fortune through the Laundy Hotel Group, which now operates more than 90 pubs, hotels, and bottle shops across New South Wales.

Despite being a first-time media owner, he has signalled a long-term commitment to radio, saying the business shares parallels with hospitality.

Nine Radio managing director Tom Malone said staff operations would continue as usual during the transition, expected to be completed by June 30, pending ACCC approval.

Ben Fordham, 2GB breakfast host, welcomed the deal live on air, highlighting the Laundy family’s reputation for valuing staff and investing for the long term.

The acquisition pits Laundy against other high-profile bidders, including adman John Singleton and Sports Entertainment Group chief Craig Hutchison, who were previously tipped as favourites.