Below are statements from: APA, H Bauer, Bauer Media, BBC Magazines, Condé Nast, Dennis Publishing, Egmont, Hearst Magazines, Hello!, IPC Media, Moshi Monsters, PPA, Reader’s Digest, Saga Magazine, Slimming World, Total Film.
APA
Julia Hutchison, COO, APA (Association of Publishing Agencies) writes:
Demand for branded magazines remains high with a number of new titles making their debut in the report including Virgin Media’s electric!, BM by Bonmarché and Harrods Magazine. Nearly two-thirds (64%) of customer titles in the Top 100 are new entries or have increased year on year circulation demonstrating the ongoing growth in the sector. Despite the squeeze on marketing budgets, brands are clearly continuing to see the value of branded content, underlined by the ongoing dominance of customer magazines in today’s ABC CCR report and brands such as Boden and Vodafone entering the space.
Consumers are turning to brands for information and entertainment as they feel the pinch, underlined by Sense Magazine topping the News & Current Affairs: Business & Finance sector, ahead of The Economist. John Lewis Edition and ASOS.com continue to dominate the Women’s Lifestyle/Fashion sector as consumers enjoy engaging editorial combined with brand messages.
Customer magazines continue to offer a tangibility and engagement that no-other medium affords, which is why it is called the 25 minute medium. That’s almost half an hour with a customer; in today’s deluge of information it is an extraordinary amount of time to hold a customer’s attention. In context that’s the same as 50 30-second TV slots or 187.5 poster views, 75 radio ads and 3,000 web views. Few other media channels can offer this type of powerful engagement, whilst slotting so easily into an integrated campaign.
Agencies remain at the forefront of the industry and by choosing them over an in-house department brands ensure they invest in the latest thinking, skills and creativity. Agencies have fully embraced digital innovation and recent research by YouGov stated that 60% of consumers who interact online are more likely to buy if the company offers additional branded content, which is extremely compelling for brands.
Device convergence and providing a seamless brand journey are key features in today’s content landscape. The flexible and interactive nature of media has given brands innovative new ways to reach and engage with consumers, and brand owners can now deliver engaging content solutions across a range of platforms. Recognising the value of branded content this frontier is being embraced by brands from Aviva and Nikon to Tesco and car brand Alfa Romeo.
Customer Magazine Trends
• Three out of the Top 5 magazines by circulation are customer titles – Asda Magazine, Tesco Magazine and Tesco Real Food
• Nine customer magazines appear in the Top 20 by circulation
• 25 customer magazines appear in the Top 100 by circulation
• The highest debut title is a customer magazine – Virgin Media’s electric! enters at number 24 with a circulation of 400,000
• Four new customer magazines appear in the Top 100
1. Virgin Media’s electric!
2. All About Heath Magazine by AAH
3. BM by Bonmarché
4. Harrods Magazine
• 64 % of customer titles in the Top 100 are new entries or have increased year on year circulation
• The customer magazines within the Top 100 by circulation have a combined circulation of 13,137,927
• Sense Magazine by the Royal Bank of Scotland tops the News & Current Affairs: Business & Finance sector, ahead of The Economist
• Customer magazines top the Women’s Interests: Cookery & Kitchen sector – Asda Magazine, Tesco Magazine, Tesco Real Food, Morrisons Magazine and Waitrose Kitchen are the Top 5 with a combined circulation of over 6 million (6,610,389)
• John Lewis Edition and ASOS.com continue to dominate the Women’s Interests: Women’s Lifestyle/Fashion sector, coming in at number 2 and number 3, and only topped by Glamour.
H Bauer
Bella
(ABC 239,660 = POP -2.3%, YOY -2.8%)
H Bauer’s Bella posts an ABC of 239,660 and continues to gain ground in the classic Women’s Weekly sector with a sales performance that far outperforms its rivals. The last three consecutive ABC periods has seen Bella overtake nearest competitor Best in full price UK Newsstand sales, and the latest period is no exception, Bella now outsells Best by over eleven thousand copies a week at full price.
This period has also seen Bella close in on its competitors in terms of total sales. Helen Morris, publisher, attributes Bella’s success to a continued focus on developing the editorial proposition in line with readers’ ever evolving appetite for relevant content. Says Morris “Bella has steadfastly maintained its policy of delivering strong content to its readers rather than allowing pricing policies to determine sales, judging by current sales, this is proving to be a successful long-term strategy.”
Take a Break
(ABC 803,555 = POP -3.6%, YOY -6.1%)
H Bauer’s Take a Break has posted an ABC of 803,555, with a stronger than market period on period and year on year percentage performance. Despite the poor economic climate in Britain, Take a Break’s dominance of the true life sector remains unrivalled, outselling its nearest competitor by over 400,000 copies a week. With new Editor Rebecca Fleming now firmly at the helm, Take a Break continues to evolve its editorial proposition in line with readers’ changing lifestyles.
That’s Life
(ABC 321,332 = POP – 4.3%, YOY -5.9%)
H Bauer’s that’s life! has also put in an impressive performance, outperforming the market with an ABC of 321,332. This consolidates that’s life’s! position as number 3 in this market and increases Bauer’s overall share of the true life sector to almost 50%.
TVChoice
(1,354,761 = -0.6% POP, +3.5% YOY )
H Bauer’s TVChoice, posts an ABC of 1,354,761, up 3.5% year on year. TV Choice continues to outperform the market, and also outsell its nearest rival in the TV listings market by over 80,000 copies a week. With the TVChoice Awards set for mid-September and the return of peak season viewing throughout the Autumn and Christmas periods, TVChoice is well placed to further consolidate its position as the Nation’s favourite paid for magazine.
Total TVGuide
(ABC = 117,448 = -3.2%POP, +7.7% YOY)
Total TVGuide, H Bauer’s premium multi-channel listings title has seen the best year on year performance in the market delivering an ABC of 117,448, which is up 7.7% year on year.
Liz Watkinson, Publishing Director of H Bauer’s Listings portfolio puts TVChoice’s continued success down to its editorial strength as the best value TV entertainment package, whilst Total TVGuide’s strength remains its ability to offer discerning viewers a planning tool that fulfills readers’ need to know about the best new programmes across a wide spectrum of channels with in-depth & authoritative listings.
Bauer Media
Paul Keenan, chief executive, Bauer Media, commented: "Bauer Media's portfolio of influential and trusted magazine brands continues to engage deeply with consumers through the consistent delivery of quality products rich in editorial and commercial innovation. This is underpinned by our commitment to a multi-platform approach, which continues to extend our reach. By delivering powerful brand experiences for consumers, we offer advertisers greater opportunities to connect with our highly engaged audiences.
We continue to seek out new opportunities and in July 2011 launched Outdoor Fitness, the first market defining, multi-discipline fitness lifestyle magazine, aimed at the growing number of people who are getting fit and planning their next big challenge, outdoors.”
CELEBRITY WEEKLIES
Closer (w) – 459,693
Nicky Holt, publisher of Closer, commented: “Closer’s unique mix of celebrity, fashion and real life stories continues to consistently deliver a strong newsstand performance. Bauer remains totally focussed on delivering a high-quality product at full price. We are delighted to have ranked number one 18 out of 26 weeks as a standalone product.”
heat (w) – 326,677
Sophie Wybrew-Bond, managing director of entertainment, commented: “heat remains one of the most influential magazines in the market, delivering the hottest and most relevant celebrity news, cheeky humour, fashion and beauty week in, week out. Our multi-platform brand strategy has seen our reach continue to grow, as our deeply loyal readership increase engagement with heat via various touchpoints like heatworld.com. This engagement has led to some stand-out advertising successes for brands like Malibu.”
WOMEN'S LIFESTYLE
Grazia (w) – 219,741
Jo Morrell, managing director of Grazia, commented: "Grazia has delivered a strong performance in this ABC period, outperforming the glossy newstand, whilst remaining the ultimate media brand for fashion-conscious upscale women. After six years Grazia remains the only glossy magazine to deliver an upscale audience in a premium environment every week, due to its unique mix of news and style.”
more! (w) – 170,033
Jo Morrell, managing director of more! commented: “more! is the most relevant, dynamic and genuinely exciting of all young women's media brands. The only glossy lifestyle weekly to engage deeply with the elusive 18-24yo female audience, more! is augmented by its strong social media footprint and high levels of brand interaction.”
Yours (f) – 285,890
Kirsten Price, publisher of Yours, commented: “Yours is the biggest selling and most influential fortnightly magazine for 50+ women in the UK, delivering unparalleled engagement with this powerful, responsive, yet hard to reach audience. Big initiatives continue to drive brand loyalty and engagement, with the inaugural ‘Grandparents of the Year’ Award sponsored by RIAS currently underway.”
MEN'S MARKET
FHM (m) – 155,557
Rimi Atwal, publishing director of FHM, commented: "FHM continues to influence and engage with young men as a genuinely multi-platform brand with a commitment to providing the most engaging and interactive content to millions of 18-34 year men every month. Under the leadership of our new editor, Joe Barnes, we are confident that FHM’s world famous ‘Funny, Sexy, Useful’ brand values will deliver a relevant and inspiring monthly for 21st century young men.”
ZOO (w) – 54,318
Simon Greves, publisher of ZOO, commented: “ZOO continues to deliver an entertaining and topical weekly package for men in their twenties, for whom banter, football, cars, girls, style and gadgets are all part of life. The development of ZOO’s online and social media presence remains a priority. The popularity of zootoday.com continues and this summer the site attracted its highest number of unique users to date.”
MUSIC MARKET
Rimi Atwal, publishing director, Kerrang!, Q and Mojo, commented: “Bauer’s influential music brands continue to dominate in the UK, underlining the loyalty of our highly engaged audiences and our commitment to delivering the best content in a 360 experience. Our magazines sit at the heart of our multi-platform music brands, which have never been more connected with their passionate and influential audiences in print, online, radio, events, TV, podcasts, social media and our world renowned awards.”
Kerrang! (w) – 43,033
Rimi Atwal, publishing director, Kerrang!, commented: “Kerrang! has delivered another market-beating performance this ABC period, cementing its position as an iconic youth culture brand in its 30th anniversary year. Kerrang! engages with over 3.2m* passionate, young, dynamic consumers every month through a highly successful and innovative multi-platform business. Under new editor James MacMahon, we are confident Kerrang! will continue to lead the market in the UK.”
MOJO (m) – 87,262
Rimi Atwal, publishing director, MOJO, commented: “MOJO delivers the definitive guide and untold stories behind the music that matters for the world’s most discerning music fans. Its ability to produce premium content and its access to music legends and new artists sees it remain the most coveted stamp of approval in music. The world-famous MOJO Honours List, sponsored by Glenfiddich, seeing the likes of Ringo Starr and the Arctic Monkeys attend.”
Q (m) – 80,418
Rimi Atwal, publishing director, Q, commented: “Q celebrates its 25th year biggest selling music monthly in the UK for a modern eclectic generation eager to discover great music. The brand also continues to expand its multi-platform offer through the high profile Q25 campaign with BlackBerry, including the launch of Q's first App on the BlackBerry PlayBook to the subscriber base.”
FILM
Empire (m) – 171,013
Sophie Wybrew-Bond, managing director of Empire commented: “Empire has outperformed the film market this ABC period, reinforcing its status as the UK and world’s market leading movie magazine brand. It is also now a force to be reckoned with in the UK men’s media market, giving brands like Orange, Tiger Beer and Ford opportunity to engage with an upscale male audience through their passions. Highlights include Empire’s Big Screen event at The O2 in London, launch of the i-pad edition and the successful Empire Awards.”
WOMEN'S SPECIALIST
Top Sante (m) – 70,076
Kirsten Price, publisher of Top Sante, commented: “Top Sante has delivered growth in a tough market this ABC period, with its refreshed editorial product and a continued focus on inspiring readers to lead a healthier lifestyle.”
Mother & Baby (m) – 47,714
Pregnancy & Birth (m) – 26,775
Kirsten Price, publisher of Mother & Baby and Pregnancy & Birth, commented: “Bauer Media continues to be the number one player in the parenting market with the most influential brands. Mother & Baby and Pregnancy & Birth continue to provide new mums and mums-to-be with the best advice and information for pregnancy, baby and beyond. Innovations in 2011 include a partnership with Cow & Gate and Aptamil to launch a series of practical advice videos on demand and the Mother & Baby Awards with sponsor, Tesco.”
GOLF
Today’s Golfer (m) – 65,910
Golf World (m) – 36,307
Steve Prentice, MD Sport, commented: “Our golf brands continue to increase their reach and engage the UK’s largest golf audience every month. Today’s Golfer has announced a period on period growth, maintaining its number one position in the market and showing growth in both UK newsstand sales and subscriptions. Golf World has delivered a strong performance showing growth both period on period and year on year, connecting with its affluent audience with a premium mix of the world’s best players, tournaments and courses.”
MOTORING
Car (m) – 54,006
Practical Classics (m) – 50,181
Classic Cars (m) – 35,466
Ed Kenyon, MD Motoring, commented: “Our brands are the most influential within motoring; Classic Cars is the oldest magazine in the classics market and our increased subscriptions confirm that it has a strong connection with its core audience. Practical Classics is at an exciting juncture, with new Editor Danny Hopkins rekindling content around heartland classic cars and a new section on upgrading your classic to appeal to the younger classic enthusiast. Car is synonymous with new metal and given the challenging retail sales of new cars it’s been a tough environment, however we remain the most premium, authoritative and influential motoring magazine in the UK.”
GARDENING
Garden News (w) – 30,323
Garden Answers (m) – 19,855
Rob Croxall, MD Leisure and Transport, commented: “Garden News was recently recognised for its editorial excellence by the Guild of Gardening Writers who named it Publication of the Year and it continues to deliver hands-on advice for keen, experienced gardeners, every single week. Garden Answers has refocused its core proposition, providing step-by-step advice and inspiring its loyal core audience to get out in the garden even more.”
BBC Magazines
• BBC Magazines shows growth of 1.1% in latest ABCs
• Subscriptions up 6.1%, good growth in children’s magazines, and continued momentum at Lonely Planet magazine
In the latest report from the Audit Bureau of Circulations (ABC), BBC Worldwide’s consumer magazine publishing business posted an overall circulation of 2,980,025, up 1.1% year on year, positioning BBC Magazines as one of the UK’s top performing publishing houses. In addition, subscriptions to BBC Magazines’ titles are also up 6.1% year on year, at 940,440.
Highlights from BBC Magazines’ results include the following year-on-year changes:
• Lonely Planet magazine delivers another impressive increase, up 13.7% at 62,204and retains its number one spot at the UK’s best-selling travel magazine;
• A strong debut from pre-school title Something Special, with a circulation of 61,748;
• Countryfile magazine delivers a circulation of 39,461, up 16.6%;
• Sky at Night magazine reports at 22,803, up 8.2%;
• Homes & Antiques is up 6.5% at 58,701;
• All titles in the CBeebies portfolio reporting year on year growth, with CBeebies Weekly up 3.3% at 56,644, cementing its position as the UK’s best-selling children’s magazine, in monthly volume terms;
• Gardeners’ World magazine, in its 20th anniversary year, increases circulation by 2.0% at 265,328;
• Top Gear magazine is up 0.1% at 190,535;
• Good Food retains its market-leading position in the food sector, at 294,720, down 3.6% - a strong performance in the context of growing competition;
• Radio Times retains its market-leading position in the quality TV-listings sector, at 901,036, down 4.9%; It also retains its position as the UK’s biggest selling weekly magazine by subscription, increasing its subs by 9.6% to a record 206,372.
Peter Phippen, MD of BBC Magazines, said: “I am delighted with these strong circulation figures. This is BBC Magazines’ third consecutive set of ABC results showing annual growth, with particularly strong performances from our pre-school titles and from Lonely Planet magazine, which goes from strength to strength. In its 20th anniversary year, it’s also great to see Gardeners’ World magazine continuing to grow. Our market-leading brands, the quality of our journalism and the loyalty of our valued customers underpin our success, contributing to our portfolio out-performing the market once again.”
BBC Magazines publishers’ statements, by brand
Alfie Lewis, Publishing Director of BBC Magazines’ Food Group: “The cookery market is increasingly competitive, with further new launches giving consumers more choice than ever before. Good Food is still the clear market leader, selling over three times as many copies as its closest direct competitor. We continue to invest in our new formats: the magazine’s iPad edition has now enjoyed over 100,000 downloads and we recently launched subscriptions for the iPad version, expanding further the existing relationship users have with the brand.
“olive magazine continues to perform in line with the paid-for cookery category, in terms of year on year performance. Subscriptions to olive remain at a high level, at 40,279 accounting for 48.7% of total circulation, driven by a loyal readership, strategic investment and strong customer relationship management.
“The practical end of the food category has had a challenging time due to intense competition and the increased prevalence of supermarket free titles. Easy Cook increased its frequency to 10 issues per year in response to feedback from readers, retailers and advertisers: the new shorter on-sale dates however have impacted sales, contributing to the ABC average circulation decline.”
Kathy Day, Publishing Director of Radio Times: “Radio Times’ ABC figure of 901,036 sees it retain its position as the UK’s biggest selling quality magazine as well as being the third biggest selling magazine across all markets. Within the premium TV listings market, Radio Times’ share has grown year on year to 60.7%, meaning that it now outsells the rest of the premium titles put together by over 316k copies a week.
“Radio Times also retains its market leading position as the UK’s biggest selling weekly magazine by subscription, increasing subs by 9.6% to a record 206,372.
“With the redeveloped radiotimes.com (which went live today) set to deliver the UK’s most sophisticated personalised TV listings service, our Electronic Programme Guide (EPG) reaching 11 million people and the Radio Times Guide to Films about to publish its 11th edition, this is a brand in extraordinarily rude health.”
Dominic Murray, Publishing Director, Gardeners’ World: “Gardeners’ World Magazine delivers a great ABC circulation performance for Jan-Jun 2011 of 265,328 - an increase of 2.0% year-on-year. The magazine continues to evolve and having invested in an editorial, marketing and promotional campaign to celebrate our 20th year, we have enjoyed one of our most successful spring seasons ever.
“We are delighted to have achieved year-on-year growth and it shows our readers have really responded to the refreshed design for the magazine, which we unveiled in our special 20th anniversary issue in March. The loyalty and support from readers is reflected particularly in the growth of our subscription sales, which are now at an all time high of 154,394, up 6.7% year-on-year.
“Subscribers now receive a special subscriber edition, with an exclusive cover, dedicated pages of content and offers, and special discounts on all reader offers in the magazine – all of which help to increase their engagement and participation as well as their enjoyment and passion for gardening.”
Dominic Murray, Publishing Director, Lonely Planet Magazine: “Another very strong ABC performance from the UK’s number one actively-purchased travel magazine, as Lonely Planet Magazine’s sensational circulation growth story continues, up a further 13.7% year-on-year to 62,204. In almost three years since launch, we have built a loyal and engaged subscriber base of 31,409, and continue to appeal to new readers at the newsstand with every issue.
“Regular feedback tells us that the editorial and marketing formula is working well for our whole readership, combining inspirational themes such as ‘52 best weekends away’ and ’25 easy adventures’ with genuine added-value content including ‘best places to stay’ guides to Britain and France. The magazine continues to go from strength to strength - we have recently announced the launch of a new website for the magazine at www.lonelyplanet.com/magazine, and with new editions launching in Thailand and Taiwan this summer we now have an international network of 10 editions.”
Simon Carrington, Publisher of Top Gear Magazine: “We are very pleased to have delivered a stable year on year ABC for Top Gear magazine, at 190,535.
“With a 49.1% share of the monthly motoring magazine market, over 58,000 subscribers and an NRS figure of almost 2 million, we lead the motoring market and have more readers than any other men’s monthly in the UK.
“Our new Editor in Chief, Charlie Turner, has been introducing a host of editorial changes over the past six months, with more cars, more authority and more entertainment, and we are pleased that readers and the industry have reacted positively.
“It’s not just in the UK that Top Gear is performing well. Exports of the UK edition have grown by 41.2% year on year and so far in 2011 we’ve signed deals for seven new licensed editions, bringing the total of international editions to 26 and making it one of the world’s biggest magazine brands.”
Toni Round, joint MD of BBC Youth & Children’s Magazines: “Overall this is a strong set of results for our Youth and Children’s titles. I am delighted with the performance of our pre-school titles, particularly the strong debut from Something Special.
“The teen and pre-teen market continues to be a tough sector but despite this, Top Of The Pops magazine has posted a tremendous ABC performance of 98,030, up 4.0% period on period, and 25,028 copies ahead of its nearest competitor. The result is testament to the recent focus on the editorial product which culminated with the title’s redesign in December and increased investment in premium gifts on the cover.
“Doctor Who Adventures benefited from the return of the TV show to our screens midway through this period, resulting in an up-lift in sales. We look forward to the new raft of programmes and great storylines coming in the new TV series this autumn, which is likely to have a similar impact. I’m also pleased with Girl Talk’s performance, with the title remaining relatively steady and retaining its loyal following in this very competitive market, which has seen several new launches in this period.”
Pauline Cooke, Publisher, BBC Pre-school Magazines, says: “BBC Magazines’ pre-school portfolio has had an amazing year, up 29.3% year on year and up 17.8% period on period. Investment in our pre-school titles has paid off as we see sales holding up across the portfolio, with only small declines in existing stand-alone titles.
“This success has been driven, primarily, by the strength of the CBeebies portfolio of titles, which is performing extremely well. CBeebies Art, in particular, goes from strength to strength with a 22.8% increase year on year. This indicates that during these difficult times parents are looking for value for money, choosing titles that offer quality gifts and a range of educational activities.
“I’m also delighted that Something Special has delivered such a strong debut ABC, at 61,748, demonstrating that this inclusive title is filling a gap in the market.”
Andy Healy, Publisher, Homes & Antiques: “We’re up 6.5% year on year and the world of antiques and retro is back! With an increasing interest in hyper-cool vintage, upcycling and thrifting, second-hand is no longer second-rate. Homes & Antiques continues to inspire readers to create great-looking homes using auctions, dealers, fairs and flea markets. It’s a unique proposition in a crowded homes market and one of the few consumer magazines that teaches you how to make money through shopping. By championing antiques and vintage and helping readers to bring interiors to life with a clever retro ‘find’, Homes & Antiques continues to open up a world that was previously intimidating and expensive. I’m extremely pleased with this result.”
Andy Healy, Publisher, BBC History Magazine: “This is another phenomenal achievement for this powerhouse of a brand, as BBC History Magazine celebrates its eleventh consecutive circulation rise. And as you’d expect from such a popular magazine, it’s now also both digital and global. We’ve launched three international licensed editions, have a digital edition for the iPad, and our award-winning podcast is downloaded across the world by over 200,000 listeners each week. We’ve also boosted our focus on the British heritage market, taking advantage of the fact that many people are now staying at home rather than taking foreign holidays. Subscriptions continue to break volume records and I’m delighted that this magazine is making history mainstream.”
Jemima Ransome, Publisher, Countryfile Magazine: “Countryfile Magazine delivers another impressive circulation increase, up 8.6% period on period and 16.6% year on year – and its fourth consecutive increase. The title has steadily built on the success of the last 18 months with subscriptions showing a particularly strong performance and now accounting for over 75% of circulation, illustrating Countryfile Magazine’s consistent editorial delivery and ability to capture its readers’ imagination.”
Jemima Ransome, Publisher, BBC Wildlife Magazine: “BBC Wildlife remains an incredibly robust magazine with an overall circulation largely in line with recent years. The title will be unveiling a sparkling new look this September, bringing a wealth of wildlife experiences into the living room through stunning photography and authoritative and informative articles from world-renowned experts across a range of fields.”
Jemima Ransome, Publisher, Gardens Illustrated: “Gardens Illustrated’s grip on its up-market audience has further strengthened this period with a gain of 2.5% year on year to an overall circulation of 34,294. Dedicated to quality, style and beauty, Gardens Illustrated is rightly dubbed the Vogue of the gardening world, and is a must-read for anyone with a love of gorgeous gardens and cutting edge plants.”
Andrew Davies, Publisher, Sky at Night Magazine: “I’m delighted with another stellar performance from Sky at Night Magazine which continues to show pleasing growth within its sector. With excellent performances from both the newsstand and subscription channels fuelling an 8.2% year on year increase, Sky at Night Magazine is looking forward to its peak autumn/winter season with confidence and excitement.”
Andrew Davies, Publisher, Focus Magazine: “Like many other titles within its sector, Focus has had a challenging period on the newsstand although subscription volumes remain consistently high. Along with the ongoing success of the magazine itself, the ever-growing number of successful brand extensions (including the much lauded iPad edition and a collection of innovative bookazines) means that the stock of the Focus brand remains high. In addition, we’ve just recruited a new Editor in Graham Southorn. Formally the Editor of Sky at Night magazine, Graham is one of the UK’s top science journalists and exactly the right man to drive Focus forward.”
Conde Nast
Condé Nast Britain is pleased to announce its new circulation figures, verified for the first time by a combination of ABC, Apple & Zinio, as Condé Nast moves into the digital age. Sales across the portfolio maintain dominance in the quality glossy sector.
Vogue
Vogue announces a new circulation of 211,211*, a combination of print and digital sales, with an increase of 0.3% year on year. Vogue’s print ABC is 210,766 with UK subscriptions up by 4.7% year on year. Overseas newsstand sales are up by 18.6% period on period. Vogue’s June 2011 app has sold 2,671 to date in the UK and overseas. Vogue remains the dominant magazine in the fashion and luxury market.
House & Garden
With a new circulation figure of 127,611*, sales of House & Garden have risen 0.4% period on period. The print ABC figure of 127,260 includes an overseas newsstand increase of 5.1%. House & Garden is the biggest selling British quality title for international design and decoration.
Tatler
Tatler posts a new circulation of 87,975*, an increase of 1.8% year on year. Total actively purchased copies have grown by 2.4%. The new print ABC total is 87,616, a rise of 5% in total subscriptions. Overseas newsstand sales are up 8.3% period on period.
The World of Interiors
Announcing a new circulation of 62,257*, The World of Interiors shows an increase of 0.4% year on year, with actively purchased copies growing by the same percentage. The new print ABC of 62,089 reflects an increase of 1.7% in overseas newsstand sales.
GQ
GQ posts a new circulation of 119,376*. GQ’s print ABC is 118,216, with UK subscriptions once again at a record high, up 8.1% year on year. The market-leading quality men’s monthly title has sold 6,961 copies of its July 2011 issue app in the UK and overseas to date, after only one iPad edition of the magazine.
Vanity Fair
Posting a new ABC of 100,560, Vanity Fair has increased UK newsstand sales by 3.5% year on year. UK actively purchased copies have grown 2% year on year, and UK single copy subscriptions are up 1% period on period.
Condé Nast Traveller
Condé Nast Traveller, the world’s most discerning travel title, posts a new circulation figure of 80,152*. With a print ABC of 80,050, overseas newsstand sales have risen by 10.3% year on year.
Glamour
Celebrating its tenth anniversary, Glamour retains the number one position in its sector with a new ABC figure of 530,060, an increase in UK newsstand sales of 11.5%, and in UK actively purchased copies of 9.4%, both period on period.
Easy Living
Easy Living posts a new ABC total of 158,038. Overseas newsstand sales have increased by 1.8% period on period.
Wired
Posting another record-breaking circulation of 51,247*, UK actively purchased copies have increased by 2.3% period on period. Wired’s new print ABC is 50,150, with total subscriptions up by 9.2% year on year. Wired’s average sales of its May-July issue apps stand at 2,193 in the UK and overseas.
Brides, which audits annually, retains its long-held position as the UK’s number one quality bridal magazine at 64,523. GQ Style, the definitive guide to men’s fashion in the UK continues to perform strongly, while bi-annual style magazine Love has just published its sixth issue and is recognised as the leading and most authoritative title in the edgy style sector.
Nicholas Coleridge, Managing Director of Condé Nast, comments “For the first time our circulation figures include debut digital numbers. For some of our titles, only a single month of digital data is included since their iPad or Zinio versions have only just been launched. Generally, print sales have shown surprising resilience, and any small print shortfalls are being filled by sales of our digital editions. It is an exhilarating moment to be in magazine publishing. It is particularly gratifying to be able to report a surge of sales for GLAMOUR in its 10th anniversary year.”
* Circulation figures are based on audited print ABC, Apple and audited digital ABC figures.
Dennis Publishing
• Overall ABC growth for Dennis Publishing
• The Week delivers its 26th consecutive increase, growing 3.9% YOY to 183,617
• Health & Fitness and Men’s Fitness show 3.0% and 1.7% respective YOY rises
• Octane up 7% YOY
Dennis Publishing delivers a strong set of ABC results for January – June 2011, with a portfolio growth of 3.0% YOY.
James Tye, CEO of Dennis Publishing said: “Despite challenging trading conditions for magazines in the UK, Dennis continues to show circulation growth of 3.0% in total circulation for the year. This is due to a combination of strong subscription growth coupled with a continuing magazine acquisition strategy for the company. The Week continues to be our brightest star, now showing its 26th consecutive ABC increase and a 3.9% YOY growth, but we’ve also seen healthy rises in our fitness portfolio.”
Current affairs:
The Week – up by 1.7% POP to 183,617
Success for Dennis Publishing’s current affairs title, The Week, with its 26th consecutive ABC increase; rising by 1.7% POP and 3.9% YOY with 3,115 new readers added. The Week continues to dominate the current affairs category with over 90% of its 155,221 subscribers paying the full subscription price.
Lifestyle:
Health & Fitness and Men’s Fitness – up 1.8% and 0.6% POP
Men’s Fitness rises to 69,264 readers cementing its position as a leading men’s lifestyle magazine, whilst popular fitness magazine Health & Fitness sees a strong increase of 1.8% POP to 33,638.
Richard Downey, Publishing Director of Men’s Fitness and Health & Fitness said: “The fitness category is increasingly important to Dennis and both Men’s Fitness and Health & Fitness continue to grow circulation. Women’s Fitness – which Dennis only acquired a month ago from Vitality Publishing – shows a steep circulation decline as we have elected to clean up all the free and bulk copies. I am confident we can now grow the circulation via active purchase, as we have done with Health & Fitness when we acquired the title from Burda in 2009.”
Automotive:
Octane and Land Rover Monthly show a strong increase
Classic car title Octane sees another strong increase of 2.2% POP, rising to 35,741 and Land Rover Monthly continues to see continued growth, rising 1.8% POP to 24,105. Despite challenging trading in motoring, both Octane and Land Rover Monthly have demonstrated good circulation growth.
Egmont
• Disney’s Princess and Barbie sparkle for Egmont Magazines
• Egmont Disney portfolio up 21.4% year on year -
• Period on period growth for Egmont girls’ portfolio –
• Toxic magazine outperforms market -
Egmont, the UK’s top specialist publisher of children’s magazines and books, delivered a solid set of ABC results in the period January to June 2011 with some notable performers, despite a challenging market.
Egmont’s Disney licensed titles continued to perform strongly with Disney’s Princess recording a period on period growth of 9.0% and Disney & Me maintaining a steady increase of 2.5% POP) & 1.0% YOY. Egmont’s overall Disney portfolio increased 21.4% year on year, with the successful launch of the Toy Story magazine in July last year.
Egmont’s investment in Toxic, the leading UK boy’s magazine, has paid dividends with the title outperforming the market. Toxic has seen significant editorial and digital investment with a new editorial team and fresh magazine package, a new look interactive website and new initiatives including “The Big Joke”, a competition fronted by TV’s Dick and Dom. The magazine is up 0.7% year on year, which is the biggest increase in pre-teen magazines across the sector. Additionally, Toxic’s period on period growth held steady compared to its competitors in the primary boys sector.
Egmont’s girls’ portfolio, which consists of 4 key titles (Barbie, Go Girl, Disneys Princess and Tinkerbell), demonstrated the continuing appetite for magazines with a solid period on period growth of 0.4%. Key titles such as Barbie and Disney’s Princess showed period to period growth of 6% and 9.0% respectively, capitalising on DVD and Film releases.
The popularity of Ben 10 magazine continues to grow with the title going from strength to strength and up 0.2% period on period.
Egmont also celebrated two new launches – Animal Cuties in June and the year’s biggest magazine launch We Love Pop, which hit the newsstands in July. The magazine is aimed at pop-loving (13 – 15 year olds) and is accompanied by an integrated website. The launch has been well received by the market and early sales figures look very positive.
Debbie Cook, Director of Magazines, Egmont Publishing Group said: “Egmont has delivered some strong performances in both licensed products and our own-brand titles, despite a tough market. By keeping audience research and innovation at the heart of our strategy, coupled with continued editorial and digital investment. we’ve been able to respond to a rapidly changing market.”
Hearst Magazines
Highlights include:
• Harper’s Bazaar continues its upward trajectory with its 11th year on year ABC increase to 118,740. The brand has also recently recorded its biggest September issue ever and its highest quarter in advertising revenue and page growth.
• Good Housekeeping again dominates its market posting a year on year increase of 2.0%. Subscriptions are at their highest level, up 3.9% year on year to 229,243.
• For the fourth consecutive period, Red has delivered its highest ever ABC of 231, 160. This success comes on the back of winning the PPA Consumer Magazine of the Year 2010.
• Men’s Health has reinforced its position as the UK’s leading men’s magazine with an ABC of 218,368 – its fifth consecutive period as the no. 1 male lifestyle title.
Arnaud de Puyfontaine, Chief Executive, Hearst Magazines UK says: “Following the acquisition of Hachette Filipacchi, our combined magazine business now reaches 47% of all women in the UK, giving us a competitive edge with a unique portfolio that speaks to every age and every demographic. Like many businesses in the UK, we are facing a challenging environment, so it’s encouraging to see that many of our brands recording year on year increases. We believe strongly in the power of print and this, combined with a strong digital presence, further reinforces our position as a leader in the industry with the agility to take full advantage of all growth opportunities ahead.”
Monthlies
Coast
(total ABC – 42,628)
Coast has posted its highest ever ABC figure, up 0.1% year on year with subscriptions at their highest ever level, up 3.4% year on year.
Company
(total ABC – 180,162)
In a highly competitive young women’s market, Company posts an ABC of 180,162 with subscriptions up 4.4% year on year. Combined with a strong multi-platform strategy and inspirational editorial content, Company appeals to young UK women wherever they are. Company launched its mobile site in May 2011, following a strong website performance, and will launch an app in Autumn 2011. Its bi-annual High Street fashion title, Company High Street Edit, continues to go from strength to strength with the fourth edition released to newsstand on 5th September
Cosmopolitan
(total ABC – 386,852)
Under the editorship of Louise Court, Cosmopolitan UK remains a leading title in the highly competitive young women’s market, posting an ABC of 386,852. Winner of the 2011 PPA’s Consumer Brand of the Year award, Cosmopolitan has expanded its highly successful Cosmo on Campus franchise to engage with a new and younger student market. In addition, the newly designed cosmopolitan.co.uk delivers 12.5m page impressions, and has close to 1 million unique browsers every month.
Country Living
(total ABC – 206,027)
Country Living remains the market leader by a mile in its sector, posting its highest ever ABC performance since it first launched 26 years ago – up 0.9% year on year. Subscriptions are also at their highest ever level, up 4.8% year on year. The hugely successful Country Living Fairs celebrate their 21st anniversary this year.
ELLE
(total ABC – 197,136)
In a competitive market, ELLE has reported a strong performance, with +0.8% year on year growth, with UK subscription levels growing +9% year on year. In addition, ELLEuk.com continues to move from strength to strength, delivering almost 400k unique users per month.
ELLE Decoration
(total ABC – 70,323)
ELLE Decoration has delivered its highest ever ABC, surpassing 70k for the first time, with a good performance across all three sales channels, in particular UK subscriptions up +18% year on year.
Esquire
(total ABC – 58,218)
An impressive ABC performance from Esquire posting an increase of 0.1% year on year in a tough market. Alex Bilmes, Esquire’s talented new editor, unveiled his new vision for the magazine with the June re-launch issue which has sold 75% more copies year on year. His second issue in July also sold significant more copies than a year ago which indicates, overwhelmingly, that readers love the new Esquire.
Good Housekeeping
(total ABC – 430,878)
The leading women’s lifestyle magazine, Good Housekeeping again dominates its market posting a year on year increase of 2.0%. Subscriptions are at their highest level, up 3.9% year on year to 229,243.
Harpers Bazaar
(total ABC – 118,740)
Harper’s Bazaar, edited by Lucy Yeomans, continues its amazing success with its 11th year on year ABC increase to 118,740. It is also celebrating its biggest ever quarter in both advertising spend and page growth (up 15% year on year). The brand has a strong dual platform presence with its website, harpersbazaar.co.uk, going from strength to strength. With an increase in pages, new advertisers, a new web editor and refreshed magazine design, expect even greater things from this iconic brand.
House Beautiful
(total ABC – 143,106)
In a very competitive market, House Beautiful posts an ABC of 143,106. The brand continues to support a strong subscription base with an impressive total of 59,373.
Men’s Health
(total ABC – 218,368)
In the last 6 months, Men’s Health has reinforced its position as the UK’s leading men’s magazine with an ABC of 218,368 – its fifth consecutive period as the no. 1 male lifestyle title. Over the same timeframe, Men’s Health has attained its highest ever readership numbers and reached more men than ever before, extending its brand franchises into a mobile site, an iPhone app and a series of printed manuals.
Psychologies
(total ABC – 108,631)
The newsstand has been challenging across the sector and this is reflected in our figures. However Psychologies continues to deliver consistent monthly copy sales. Our on-going research reinforces our belief that there is a clear place for Psychologies as a unique women’s glossy that encourages life-curious women to lead their most fulfilled lives.
Prima
(total ABC – 280,207)
One of the UK’s best performing magazines, Prima celebrates its silver jubilee anniversary this year, with a healthy circulation of 280,207 copies. Prima’s loyal subscriber base is at its highest ever level, with the brand posting its 9th consecutive increase with a year on year increase in subscriptions of 4.2%.
Prima Baby
(total ABC – 31,926)
Prima Baby posts a respectable ABC of 31,926. Its website, babyexpert.com continues to go from strength to strength providing additional expert advice and content for UK mothers-to-be.
Red
(total ABC – 231,160)
Yet again –for the fourth consecutive period – Red has delivered its highest ever ABC. This success comes on the back of winning the PPA Consumer Magazine of the Year 2010. Red‘s winning editorial formula is now also available daily on RedOnline, which now reaches around 250k unique users and is growing every month.
Zest
(total ABC – 87,100)
Another successful ABC for Zest, as the brand retains its leading title in the women’s health and fitness sector. With the increasing success of its online platform, Zest.co.uk, and recent launch of the Zest Gym-Sized edition – the brand remains a trusted source for expert health, fitness and beauty advice for women.
Weeklies
ALL About Soap
(total ABC – 90,861)
In a difficult weeklies sector, All About Soap has posted a solid ABC of 90,861.
Best
(total ABC – 280,218)
Best’s lively mix of ideas and inspiration delivers a stable performance in the well established classic sector.
Inside Soap
(total ABC – 165,022)
Inside Soap continues to lead the soap sector by a significant sales margin, whilst maintaining its focus on delivering a great product and charging a premium price.
Reveal
(total ABC – 311,176)
Hearst Magazines UK’s celebrity weekly Reveal, led by Editor Jane Ennis, continues to outperform the market in this fiercely competitive category.
Real People
(total ABC – 208,850)
Modern real Life weekly Real People puts in a very respectable performance in line with the market.
HELLO!
The ‘Kate effect’ helps HELLO! magazine to impressive growth
Year on year sales up 27% whilst other titles continue to falter
Celebrity title HELLO! magazine has seen a year-on-year (YoY) increase in UK and Eire news trade sales of over 27 per cent from Jan to June of this year, with much of that increase thanks to the ‘Kate effect’ and their extensive coverage of April’s Royal Wedding. The period on period (PoP) increase was 15.6 per cent, according to the ABC results for the magazine sector which are released at midday on Thursday.
Even with the royal wedding issues removed from sales figures, HELLO! still achieved a 10 per cent increase in UK news trade sales, suggesting that new readers have stuck with the magazine since April.
The vast majority of monthly and weekly titles have seen their sales figures slide as competition from online and social media channels continues to grow.
HELLO!’s main competition, OK! magazine, are understood to have lost sales, even when royal wedding issues are included in the count.
Publishing Director of HELLO! magazine, Charlotte Stockting, says; “Kate Middleton is undoubtedly one of the most popular cover stars in HELLO!’s history. All six of our top selling titles this year had Kate on the front.
“Adored by the public, there was an almost unquenchable thirst for insights in to her life, her relationships with the royals and of course her big day; and no one does royal wedding coverage quite like HELLO!”
Stockting continues: “What is most pleasing about these ABC results for us is that a great deal of those new readers have continued to buy the magazine week in week out.
“To be gaining thousands of new UK readers at a time when the rest of the market is faltering and losing readers, is an incredibly strong position to be in, and is testament to the celebrity insights HELLO! provides that no other source can.”
IPC Media
IPC Media CEO Sylvia Auton says: "The difficult economic climate has made it a challenging time for most UK businesses, and while the magazine market has certainly been affected, it is nonetheless encouraging that we are seeing some clear growth in sectors that focus around the home. As purse strings tighten, the home is becoming increasingly important as the hub for social and family activity, whether it be at-home dining; watching TV; decorating or treating oneself to the odd home improvement. So while the property market may have slowed, the UK's love affair with the home continues, as the success of Homes and Gardens, Living etc, Ideal Home, Style At Home, Country Homes & Interiors, What's on TV and Soaplife amply illustrate.
"Consumers are still turning to magazines to inspire, guide and entertain and once again these latest results prove that IPC's portfolio of brands is perfectly in tune with consumers' needs."
Growth in home interest
IPC Southbank, the market leading home interest publisher, has increased its share of the sector to 42%, from 40% last period. Every title has posted period-on-period growth, demonstrating that Southbank has a title for everyone, whether their style is modern and trends-led, classic, country-inspired, or budget-chic.
Style At Home, Southbank's new launch, releases a debut ABC of 52,576. Style At Home has strengthened IPC's position in the homes market.
Ideal Home, the biggest selling homes title on the newsstand, delivers an ABC of 205,778, up by 1.4% on the period and 0.1% on the year.
Livingetc, has cemented its position as the best-selling modern homes magazine. It has increased its circulation by 4.8% year-on-year, reporting an ABC of 97,098.
Country Homes & Interiors is riding high with an ABC of 92,563. This is the title's biggest circulation in seven years up by 2.7% year-on-year and 2.6% period-on-period.
Homes & Gardens continues to lead the premium traditional sector with an ABC of 137,812, up by 1.2% year-on-year and 0.4% period-on-period and strongly outperforming its competitor set on the UK newsstand, demonstrating the enduring popularity of the homes sector's fourth largest magazine.
25 Beautiful Homes is up 0.1% on the period, reporting an ABC of 107,974.
Extending the home interest trend into gardening, Amateur Gardening, part of the IPC Inspire portfolio, reports an ABC of 39,086, an 11% period-on-period increase. These results follow a successful relaunch in 2010 as well as continued marketing and retail investment.
Consumers plan the perfect night in
With household budgets continuing to be restricted, consumers are looking for cost effective ways to entertain themselves and their families at home. As a result, key brands within IPC Connect's television portfolio have seen uplift.
What's on TV is up 5.4% year-on-year and 1.4% period-on-period with an ABC of 1,274,035, its second consecutive ABC rise. This consolidates its position in the market, narrowing the gap between it and its nearest competition and driving the growth in the value sector.
The UK's love of TV drama and soap opera continues unabated with Soaplife reporting an ABC of 100,798 up 1.4% year-on-year.
TVTimes reports an ABC of 290,303 holding its position as a firm favourite within the premium TV sector growing RSV by 8.9% year-on-year. TVTimes and TV & Satellite Week, which reports an ABC of 176,837, are driving the premium sector with a total RSV of £30.3m.
Aspiration within reach gains popularity
IPC Southbank and IPC Connect have both seen growth among brands that have used real life models and inspirational yet attainable celebrity style. In addition, the positive editorial tone is winning favour with consumers looking for an antidote to the challenging economic climate.
Essentials is yet again the fastest growing title in the women's lifestyle market, reporting a circulation of 126,904, an increase of 9.9% on the year and 0.4% on the period. This is the magazine's ninth consecutive year-on-year increase. At the heart of Essentials' success is its celebration of the reader, featuring only real women on the cover since September 2010.
woman&home once again delivers growth, reporting an ABC of 370,284, up 0.3% on the year. This is its eighth consecutive year-on-year increase. Subscription growth continues and women are still discovering the title and its positive editorial proposition, which chimes perfectly with the mood of the UK 40-plus female consumer.
Further emphasising consumers' appetite for staying-in, titles in the women's weeklies sector that contain strong cookery or craft content also experience circulation increases.
Following its May relaunch, IPC Connect's Woman, has held its position as Britain's favourite woman's weekly lifestyle title, reporting an ABC of 286,731, despite the overall decline in the market. The full success of the relaunch is not seen in this reporting period but readers have responded positively to the new content that includes advice and insight from experts, helpful fashion and health tips and self-improvement content.
Woman's Weekly, which is celebrating its centenary year, reports an ABC of 339,993, up 0.4% year-on-year demonstrating the longevity of the brand and the continued loyalty of its consumers. This year the brand has launched a number of partnerships with high profile brands including Thornton's and has bolstered its presence at live events across the UK.
Stylish partnerships proving effective
IPC Southbank is the market-leading fashion publisher by volume, selling more copies per year than any other UK publisher and holding 34.4% market share.
IPC Southbank's fashion brands have been working closer than ever with clients to devise imaginative ways to help them drive sales. Examples include Marie Claire's Beauty Genius iPhone app in association with Estée Lauder; InStyle's partnership with Selfridges on the new Best Advice We've Ever Heard multi-platform franchise; and Look's partnership with Westfield, taking The Look Show to the new Westfield Stratford City.
Look delivers an ABC of 300,161. It is the biggest-selling weekly fashion magazine with a circulation of more than 15 million copies every year. Look continues to extend the reach of the brand. In digital, its website achieves 498,000 monthly unique users, up 127% year-on-year, and it has more than 68,000 friends on Facebook. One of the key strengths of Look is its use of models of all shapes and sizes.
Marie Claire delivers an ABC of 250,785. Marie Claire targets upmarket, affluent, 30-something women, and its circulation is significantly higher than those in its competitive set*.
InStyle reports an ABC of 175,113. It continues to grow as a brand with the development of new franchises including the Get Smart workwear guides and its print and event collaboration with BAFTA.
Men's eclectic media consumption habits
IPC Inspire's brands continue to investigate new ways to engage their audiences through the web, mobile and live events as well as developing their print products.
Nuts continues to be the leading magazine in the men's lifestyle market reporting an ABC of 114,019 and representing 54.7% of all men's magazines** sold at the newsstand in the period. IPC Media continues to develop the brand and this week launched a refreshed edition of the magazine emphasising humour as a key brand differentiator.
NME reports an ABC of 29,020 and continues to be an exemplar of a modern multiplatform media brand, serving its core audience of 16-24 year-olds online, via social media, on TV, radio, mobile, through live events and in print and reaches over one million consumers each week.
Golf Monthly posts an ABC of 58,775, up 6.8% on the period. This is driven by strong performance on the UK newsstand, where Golf Monthly outperforms the market-leader over the last six months and shows growth in excess of 10% period-on-period. The centenary issue of the magazine has sold well and recent issues continue to perform solidly, with consecutive issues showing newsstand growth.
*Marie Claire competitor set is defined as Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, Elle, Red
** Nuts competitor set is defined as Nuts, Zoo, FHM, GQ and Esquire
Moshi Monsters
The latest ABC figures, announced today, reveal that Moshi Monsters Magazine has become the best selling children’s title in the UK within its first six months on shelf.
The magazine, which launched in February this year has reached a circulation of 113,748 (Source ABC - 1 April to 30 June 2011) – eclipsing its rivals and ranking at 70 within the top 100 magazines sold in the UK.
Emma Munro Smith, Co-Editor of Moshi Monsters Magazine (Mind Candy) commented: “It’s incredible to have become the best selling children’s magazine in the UK and to have achieved such large numbers in a previously declining market. We’re delighted with the results and with the incredible feedback we get from our fans… and there’s still so much more to come!”
Matt Yeo, Co-Editor of Moshi Monsters Magazine and Managing Director of SkyJack Publishing, added: “This is amazing news for SkyJack Publishing, and the success of Moshi Monsters Magazine can be credited to our truly unique partnership with Mind Candy. We're successfully pushing the boundaries of what's possible with children's magazine publishing, and the results of what can be achieved with the right combination of talent, ideas and creativity have exceeded even our own expectations!”
PPA
ABC today (August 18) released magazine circulation figures for the six-month period from January to June 2011.
The report illustrates the robust demand for printed titles among consumers at a time when magazine brands also continue to dramatically expand their audience reach across multiple platforms.
Total Average Issue Net Circulation for ABC-audited titles was stable for the six-month period, with an overall increase of 0.1 per cent compared with the same period the previous year.
Sectors that recorded notable increases included Children’s Magazines: Pre-School, which increased circulation by 15.9 per cent year-on-year; News & Current Affairs: Domestic, which registered circulation growth of 7.0 per cent year-on-year; and General Interest: Miscellaneous, where year-on-year circulation was up 6.2 per cent.
The high-volume Women’s Lifestyle/Fashion sector increased circulation by 1.4 per cent overall year-on-year and the TV Listings sector edged circulation up 1.0 per cent compared with last year’s figure.
Barry McIlheney, CEO of the PPA, said: “These figures demonstrate the continued strength of magazines in a rapidly evolving market and underline their unique ability to create a real emotional connection with audiences through their trusted and engaging content.”
He added: “Innovation and creativity remain at the core of today’s successful consumer magazine brands as they build their reach by capitalising on new opportunities online, on mobile devices, via social networks, and through face-to-face events.”
Reader’s Digest
• Reader’s Digest records 9% increase in circulation
The Audit Bureau of Circulations (ABC) results reveal that one of the UK’s best-loved brands is continuing to grow circulation on both a period-on-period and year-on- year basis.
Total average net circulation is up 9% year on year, from 403,458 in 2010 (Jan-June) to 440,419. Continuing this upwards trend, circulation has also grown from 433,353 over the past 6 months – a rise of 2%, period on period.
The upturn is a direct result of major investment in the magazine over the last year, including: a complete redesign of the magazine to give a cleaner, more modern feel; the introduction of new regular features; and new big-name contributors—including James Brown and Martha Lane Fox.
Reader’s Digest also invested £500,000 into dramatically improved paper stock and embarked upon an extensive sampling campaign. All of these changes have been informed by a huge insight project into the core target audience of 45-60-year-olds.
Gill Hudson, Editor-in-chief and Consumer Media PPA Editor of the Year 2011, said: “We’ve completely reinvented the magazine for the 21st century, and it’s gone down a storm with long-standing and brand-new readers alike. We have transformed one of Britain’s greatest magazine brands and made it relevant for a whole new generation.”
Saga Magazine
• Saga Magazine circulation: holding steady in rough waters - still the magazine to read when you grow up!
The UK’s best-selling monthly magazine, Saga Magazine, retains its place at the top at a difficult time for the magazine market as a whole, with paid for sales holding level in the latest ABC figures.
The new figures show that a huge 613,470 people chose to actively purchase a subscription - remember that Saga Magazine – the specialist title for people over 50 – is not available in the shops.
Editor Katy Bravery said: “We’re pleased to be showing level sales in a choppy magazine market which, in the previous ABC audit, was shown to have fallen by more than 4% overall.
“Our eclectic mix of unusual reads, authoritative advice and excellent standards of presentation is proving as popular as ever to our wide and disparate readership. And our recent redesign and move to a better paper stock have made the magazine even fresher and brighter; reflecting the energy of an age group that knows what it wants.
“We are what you read when you grow up…”
Slimming World
• Record-breaking success for slimming title!
Slimming World magazine is celebrating yet another healthy growth in its circulation after the ABC figures showed a 15.5% year on year increase – its biggest ever rise and the fourth increase in as many years.
The title, which supports members of UK weight-loss organisation Slimming World’s 7,750 weekly slimming groups as well as introducing new people to the club, became the first-ever slimming magazine to sell more than 300,000 copies in 2009, the first to reach the top 20 actively purchased titles in 2010, and continues to break its own records. January to July 2011 ABC figures for Slimming World magazine stand at 349,566 – 15.5% up year on year and a 4% increase period on period – consolidating the publication’s position at the top of the Women’s Diet and Lifestyle sector, and seeing it move five places up the actively purchased magazine league table from 19th to 14th.
The magazine publishing industry continues to go through an uncertain time. This month has seen the closure of She and Cosmo Bride and consumers continue to tighten their belts and increasingly look online for news and inspiration. Even so, the latest ABC results show Slimming World magazine is one of only a handful of magazines to see a rise in sales and continues to outsell its competitors, exceeding its nearest rival in the sector by nearly 150,000 copies.
The recipe for the magazine’s success is editorial that appeals to both members and non-members of the slimming club, including real-life success stories and real-life cover stars, delicious healthy food and recipes, practical suggestions for getting active as well as advice and strategies for overcoming the emotional and psychological challenges faced by anyone trying to lose weight and boosting confidence and self-esteem.
Slimming World magazine content is dedicated to ensuring readers’ slimming success. Editor and Publisher Elise Wells says: “People across all sectors of society and all ages are increasingly aware of the health risks of being overweight as well as wanting to improve their appearance. The in-house production allows our staff a unique insight into Slimming World’s ethos and the psychology of real slimmers. It also ensures a close relationship with readers, specifically Slimming World members and Consultants, with editorial content tailored to their feedback.”
Elise adds: “At a time when many magazines have been forced to cut back, Slimming World has invested in quality – and it’s paid off. We continue to move forward, keeping readers engaged, inspired and losing weight!”
That’s as true now as ever, with two new exciting developments on the horizon. The October 2011 issue sees a content and design refresh with more honest slimming success stories, more practical features to help readers overcome weight-loss hurdles, more targeted fashion content that looks good on all figures and more of the food ideas readers want. The latest issue also sees the launch of the new Slimming World magazine app (£2.49, with first issue free). Digital editions are also available for PC and Mac.
Slimming World magazine was started in 1998 as the flagship publication of Slimming World. The club was founded in 1969 to offer weight loss support that promised slimmers they could lose weight without going hungry or being humiliated. The largest weight loss organisation in Britain, Slimming World now welcomes 400,000 members every week.
Total Film
• Total Film extends brand reach in latest ABC period
With an ABC of 71,823, Total Film continues to extend its overall brand reach. With an online audience growing at a staggering pace month-on-month, and over 60,000 more Facebook fans than rival Empire, the brand is reaching more passionate film fans than ever in print, online, through video and at live events. Total Film’s overall monthly consumer brand reach is 1.48 million, up 23% on the previous period*.
Highlights include:
• In print, Total Film has more subscribers than ever before, up 4% year-on-year.
• www.TotalFilm.com has an average of 754,000 unique visitors every month (Jan – June 11). July attracted almost one million global unique visitors and 10.2 million page impressions. (Source: comScore Digital Analytix)
• NRS readership of Total Film is 527,000 (NRS Apr10 - Mar11).
• Over 13,500 Total Film iPhone and iPad apps have been sold since launch; while Total Film has 61,400 Twitter followers and 32,500 Tumblr followers.
• Total Film has 103,400 Facebook fans – over 2.5 times as many as Empire.
• The Total Film Screening Club reaches 3,000 passionate film fans every month in the UK. That’s 39,000 a year, who market the film and Total Film through word of mouth. In the last year, films have included The Social Network, The Fighter, Win Win and Bridesmaids.
Group Publisher for Future’s Film portfolio, Clair Porteous, says: “Total Film continues its commitment to developing must-read entertaining content across all platforms, growing its overall brand reach to over 1.48 million every month. Despite a challenging and highly competitive print sector, Total Film is leading the way online and in social media, establishing an incredibly valuable audience of engaged and influential 18-30 year-old film fans. The growth has been remarkable and proves that Total Film, in the minds of passionate film enthusiasts, is the film brand for them.”
