Shopping network takes reins of NBC unit

NBC says shopping network ValueVision International has taken over its Enhanced Broadcast Group. Under the deal, the unit's staff will become ValueVision employees. The financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed. The group will continue to combine shopping services with NBC shows, including the "Tonight Show with Jay Leno" and "Saturday Night Live," and with broadcasts of events such as the French Open. For example, viewers who use AOLTV, Microsoft's Ultimate TV or WebTV can purchase products featured on the TV programs with a click of a remote control. Minneapolis-based ValueVision reached an agreement with NBC in November that lets it use the network's brand name and peacock symbol. ValueVision said it plans in June to rename its network and Web site ShopNBC and ShopNBC.com, respectively. NBC's parent, General Electric, holds a stake in ValueVision.