Highbury Revamps Home Interest Titles Ahead of Launches
Consumer publisher Highbury House has announced a radical relaunch programme for all three of its home interest titles, Real Homes, Inspirations and Home, hoping to boost their fortunes before launching subsequent magazines in the sector.
The overhauls will take place in March, with all three titles receiving a facelift. The publisher also states that work on new titles has begun in earnest, and that several launch to extend its portfolio further could see the light of day in the near future.
Commenting on the move, Sally O’Sullivan, Highbury’s editorial director said: “We are giving all three of our titles a new look and feel to maximise their brand values and grow their market share. In this competitive sector of the magazine market it is essential to keep refreshing titles to reaffirm their distinction. We have great plans to grow Highbury’s home interest portfolio and we have the experience and enthusiasm to make it work.”
Mark Simpson, Highbury House chief executive added: “After a period of management change and reorganisation it is very satisfying now, to be focusing on what we do best. We have the top home interest editorial team and intend to put their skills to full use. We are currently No. 3 in the home interest market, and plan to become an even bigger player in this sector. Highbury is investing significant sums in these relaunches which will include spend on editorial, packaging and promotions, and retail marketing.”
The decision to revamp its home interest portfolio follows Highbury’s recent acquittal from copyright infringement accusations by rival publisher, IPC Media. According to IPC, the design of Highbury’s Home magazine was too similar to its Ideal Home title.
However, Mr Justice Laddie dismissed IPC’s complaint in December, accepting that Highbury had designed its magazine without infringing any of its rival’s rights (see Highbury Wins IPC Media Copyright Case).
Amongst the changes planned for its portfolio, Highbury will relaunch Real Homes as a more modern, compact offering with a reduced cover price of £2.50.
Highbury House Communications: www.hhc.co.uk
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