In a bid to give buyers and publishers greater flexibility in the way they analyse and present ABC data across multiple platforms, the ABC Board has announced that regional publications will be able to report a combined print and digital edition figure.
From audit periods ending July 2014, a full breakdown between print and digital copies will be shown for all regional titles, as well as a statement of the total average number of print and digital edition bundles, sold for at least 120% of the full print price.
Last year the ABC introduced a number of initiatives to deliver more flexible circulation reporting and cost savings for the regional publications sector, including the option for publishers to choose the reporting frequency – monthly, six monthly or annually – to suit individual requirements.
“ABC is constantly innovating to meet the needs of the entire media industry and this agreement by the ABC Board is an example of that,” said Jerry Wright, chief executive, ABC.
“As the prominence of new platforms increases, ABC remains committed to delivering industry-owned media brand certification across multiple channels.”
Steve Goodman, managing director of print trading, Group M, said: “The media industry has changed significantly. With so many platforms available, it is crucial to us, as buyers and planners, to be able to understand where our audience is.
“This is an incredibly important development from ABC formed with the consensus of all parties for the good of the industry.”
MediaTel will be hosting a debate on the Future of National Newspapers in September, with panellists including Trinity Mirror’s James Wildman, News UK’s Abba Newbery and the Independent and Evening Standard’s Chris Blackhurst. See our events page for details
