ITV1 Ad Revenue Down 12.5%

Advertising revenues at ITV1 have declined 12.5% over 2006 according to an announcement from the broadcaster.

ITV also revealed that the flagship channel’s adult share of commercial impacts are down 10.4% at 33% over the same period.

In a trading update released today, ITV said that although advertising revenues were down 12.5%, this better than expected under the contract rights renewal mechanism which has been under fire for some time (see ITV Refers CRR To OFT).

The broadcaster did have some good news though, as it said that advertising revenues for ITV digital channels were up approximately 40%.

ITV added that the investment in programming for its digital channels in 2007 is funding an increase in the number of original commissions and acquisitions, enabling continued growth in viewing share.

After an in-depth search, Michael Grade was last month named as ITV executive chairman in a shock move (see BBC Chairman Jumps Ship To ITV Top Job).

ITV: 020 7843 8000 www.itv.com