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Origin: The debate needs evidence, not assertion

Origin: The debate needs evidence, not assertion

The debate over whether Origin has failed, and whom it was created to serve, needs to distinguish evidence from speculation, measurement from currency, and the programme’s original advertiser-led purpose from the incomplete product it has delivered so far.
ITV reports ‘solid’ H1 in first results since Sky deal announcement

ITV reports ‘solid’ H1 in first results since Sky deal announcement

The broadcaster maintained full-year guidance after the FIFA Men’s World Cup boost advertising, although less healthy foods regulation cut revenue by £20m.
Government urged to block BBC podcast advertising plans

Government urged to block BBC podcast advertising plans

A coalition of media businesses, including broadcasters, audio producers and news publishers, have written a letter to the Culture Secretary to outline the impact this would have on the wider audio industry.

Why inclusion isn’t a trend when it comes to the work and workplace

Why inclusion isn’t a trend when it comes to the work and workplace

Inclusive thinking isn’t a trend. It’s how better decisions and meaningful campaigns are made.
Rajar Q2 2026: A record 51m people listen to UK radio each week

Rajar Q2 2026: A record 51m people listen to UK radio each week

The latest Rajar figures found a majority of the UK’s national stations’ weekly reach declined year on year.

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Opinion

How can media leaders prepare for an under 16 social media ban?

If regulation is inevitable, we should use it as an opportunity to create a smarter, safer digital ecosystem. Lisa Morgan looks at key considerations.

The scoop that stopped FIFA’s secret World Cup selloff

Martyn Ziegler’s exclusive, one of the most significant sports exclusives ever, has put an end to what many saw as an attempt to sell off the soul of football. Ray Snoddy explains. 

IAA roundtable: Rethinking brand safety for a more nuanced media landscape

Brand safety has long been a non-negotiable for digital advertising, but it has evolved beyond simply avoiding harmful content. The IAA’s executive director unpacks the key discussion points from a recent debate at this year’s Cannes Lions.

Industry News

Rajar Q2 2026: Heart Breakfast growth stalls but remains most popular commercial breakfast show

Rajar Q2 2026: Heart Breakfast growth stalls but remains most popular commercial breakfast show

Rajar Q2 2026: Top Takeaways

Rajar Q2 2026: Top Takeaways

Rajar Q2 2026: Online accounts for more than a third of commercial radio listening hours

Rajar Q2 2026: Online accounts for more than a third of commercial radio listening hours

Channel 4 and Lloyds award four Black-owned businesses with £200,000 each in advertising airtime

Channel 4 and Lloyds award four Black-owned businesses with £200,000 each in advertising airtime

Is broadcasters’ embrace of social video commercially sustainable? With Enders Analysis’ Niamh Burns

Is broadcasters’ embrace of social video commercially sustainable? With Enders Analysis’ Niamh Burns

Big Tech’s AI costs have surged. Can ad revenues keep up?

Big Tech’s AI costs have surged. Can ad revenues keep up?

Exclusive: Fifty5Blue to take minority stake in Origin, enters talks with Isba

Exclusive: Fifty5Blue to take minority stake in Origin, enters talks with Isba

Digital and programmatic drives strong performance for JCDecaux in H1

Digital and programmatic drives strong performance for JCDecaux in H1

Data Analysis

Has Origin failed?

Has Origin failed?

Mapping the UK agency landscape

Mapping the UK agency landscape

The industry is calling it cross-media. It’s not

The industry is calling it cross-media. It’s not

Campaign ROI is maximised when audio gets 25% of spend, finds Radiocentre report

Campaign ROI is maximised when audio gets 25% of spend, finds Radiocentre report

Data Snapshot

Data-led charts from across the UK media landscape

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The Future of Media Manchester 2026 is the region's premier event bringing together media planners, strategists, and buyers to explore the biggest challenges and opportunities shaping the commercial media landscape. Hosted by The Media Leader, the event features expert speakers, thought-provoking debates and research-led sessions designed to spark honest conversations about where the industry is heading. Taking place at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester on 17 September, the event will bring together 600+ industry professionals and 40+ speakers for a full day of insight, discussion and networking. Attendees can expect sharp debates, fresh perspectives and valuable connections with senior leaders across the media ecosystem — making it a must-attend for anyone looking to stay ahead of the industry’s next chapter.
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