21 February 2006

ACP Media leads growth in magazine market

ACP Media has continued its leadership of the New Zealand magazine market according to the latest circulation report, published by the Audit Bureau of Circulations (ABC) today.

New title launches and circulation gains have enabled ACP Media to grow by +6%, whilst the magazine market has grown by 2% in the second half of 2005.

“We are pleased with the performance of our paid-for magazines over the past 12 months,” said Heith Mackay-Cruise, ACP Media’s chief executive. “We have strengthened our position as the industry leader by increasing our market share to 30% of audited magazines in New Zealand. In addition, our Consumer Division has matched the level of growth for the magazine sector, against a backdrop of a fragmented market”.

In the key weekly women’s market, Woman’s Day enjoyed the highest circulation growth against competing titles (6,555 copies or +5% on prior year), reaping ongoing rewards from its content and format revamp in late 2004. The magazine now sells more than 47,000 copies per week more than its closest competitor.

Newly launched food magazine Taste has recorded an initial paid circulation of 22,793 copies for the second-half of 2005, continuing to maintain the audited sales levels from its strong launch issues.

“We have taken a long-term view of investing in our brands, including the recent refresh of Woman’s Day, The Australian Women’s Weekly, and AutoTrader, and the launches of Taste and FQ Men. This program will continue in 2006, with new title offerings and fresh approaches to current magazines. We have recently announced the launch of a NZ version of Dolly magazine and look to revitalize the homes segment with the re-launch of Your Home & Garden in May 2006” Mackay-Cruise said.

“Our trader and property classified portfolios are key parts of our business and it’s exciting to have new additions like Lifestyle Block performing so well,” says Mr Mackay-Cruise.

“Magazines stand out as an engaging, loved and enduring medium in an increasingly fragmented market. The last six months have shown ongoing growth across the board, and we are confident that in 2006 magazines will continue to be in an excellent position to deliver the best possible value to readers and advertisers alike in New Zealand”.

ENDS