The deal marks the first acquisition by the newly-created Immediate Media Co, formed out of the merger of BBC Magazines, Origin Publishing and Magicalia in November 2011. The company already publishes a parenting portfolio including Practical Parenting and Pregnancy magazine and the MadeforMums digital network, as well as bridal brand Perfect Wedding.
Tom Bureau, CEO of Immediate Media Co, says: “I am delighted that we have acquired these strong assets. They are an excellent fit with our existing brands and this acquisition is in line with our strategy of developing strong cross-media opportunities. The deal also demonstrates our ambition to invest in Immediate Media Co in order to create a fast-growing, dynamic business, and we look forward to welcoming the new teams.”
Arnaud de Puyfontaine, Chief Executive, Hearst Magazines UK, says: “This deal reinforces our overall strategy to focus investment on Hearst UK’s core business and digital expansion, and we are confident this move will allow both You & Your Wedding and Prima Baby to succeed within the Immediate Media stable."
After a short period of consultation, all staff working on the titles within the deal are expected to transfer to Immediate Media’s London offices.
About the titles
According to Immediate Media Co:
Prima Baby & Pregnancy magazine is the number two magazine in the parenting sector, with an ABC of 31,926 (Jan-Jun 2011). Alongside its digital brand, babyexpert.co.uk, Prima Baby reassures and informs women during pregnancy, birth and the early years of life as a mum.
You & Your Wedding is the UK’s number two title in the wedding sector, with an ABC of 48,664 (Jan –Dec 2010). Alongside its website youandyourwedding.co.uk the brand aims to guide and inspire brides-to-be to turn their dream wedding into reality.
