United Reports Increased Revenue As It Awaits Regulatory Outcome

Television advertising revenues at United News and Media rose by 13% during the first half of this year. The media group, which owns ITV franchises including Anglia and HTV, said that growth for the year to the end of May was better than expected and predicted overall trading for the current year to be well ahead of previous expectations.

The increase in revenues for the period was driven by strong financial services and technology-based campaigns, and a “particularly impressive” second quarter, according to the update released today. Net-based revenues are also experiencing growth and the group’s online division is looking forward to a lucrative future (see UNM Online Promises To Net Profits Within Four Years).

Business services within the group are also performing well with page volumes of its high-tech titles growing by 9% in a year on year analysis and its international news service, PR Newswire, showing continued growth.

The group is currently awaiting the outcome of the Competition Commission’s decision on its proposed merger with Carlton Communications, which is expected later today (see Competition Commission Extends Deadline To Report On Carlton/UNM).

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