SWFL publishing company buys historic California newspapers

The Hoffmann Media Group, a Fort Myers-based publishing and advertising company in 30 markets and a unit of the Hoffmann Family of Companies, has acquired Napa Valley Publishing Co. Financial terms of the deal weren’t disclosed. 

Napa Valley Publishing, with a large market presence in Napa County’s northern California wine country, has a pair of publications that date back more than 150 years with the Napa Valley Register (est. 1863) and St. Helena Star (est. 1874). It also publishes Inside Napa Valley Magazine and oversees online publications such as The Weekly Calistogan (est. 1877) and American Canyon Eagle, according to a press release.  

Hoffman Media, which counts Floprida Weekly in Southwest Florida among its publications, acquired Napa Valley Publishing from Davenport, Iowa-based Lee Enterprises. 

"This acquisition not only strengthens our investment in the Napa region but also aligns perfectly with our strategy to enhance local news media," Hoffmann Family of Companies co-CEO Geoff Hoffmann says in the statement. "By integrating Napa Valley Publishing into our portfolio, we are committed to covering stories that matter to local communities and fostering a sense of unity and connection among residents. We aim to bring people together through quality journalism and community-focused content.” 

Hoffmann Media Group CEO Pason Gaddis says Dan Evans, who joined Napa Valley Publisher as its executive editor in March 2022, has been promoted to editor and publisher, with oversight of both the content and business sides of the operation. “We’re pleased to bring Napa Valley Publishing back under family ownership,” Gaddis says in the release. “For nearly 162 years, this institution has been an integral part of Napa Valley's identity. By restoring local management and decision-making, we’re not only honoring its rich history but also ensuring that the tradition of quality journalism continues to serve future generations." 

In addition to Florida Weekly, Hoffmann Media Group’s publications include the Ave Maria Sun, Florida Health Care News and the Mackinac Island Town Crier in Michigan. Hoffmann Family of Companies, meanwhile, is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 110 global brands. It has 11,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations worldwide.