QVC parent company buying HSNi

ST. PETERSBURG (FOX 13) - A major announcement for two retail giants is affecting thousands of workers in the Tampa Bay area.

The parent company of QVC is acquiring Home Shopping Network Interactive.

Liberty Interactive, which owns QVC, will take ownership of HSNi.

HSNi is North America’s third-largest mobile and e-commerce retailer. Experts say the two combining will create a frictionless platform.

While there’s uncertainty for HSNi’s nearly 3,000 employees in Pinellas County, those who do business with the company tell FOX 13 that the buyout is viewed as positive for both companies.

HSNi is expected to keep its name and branding.

HSNi’s board of directors will be dissolved, and no layoffs have been announced.