A focus on transparency, indies versus holdcos, predators circling legacy brands… 2025 will see some big wins for those who make the right bets and fight the good fight.

For my last column as editor-in-chief, I’d like to sign off with a celebration of those that best demonstrated The Media Leader’s values of disruption, inclusion, courage and excellence this year.

Publishers faced several headwinds in 2024. Old papers changed hands, US owners meddled in editorial processes, digital traffic was harmed by changes to search, and keyword blocklists undermined journalistic efforts.

The planning tool has been overestimating BVOD reach for years. The TV measurement body is now working on a fix that would align its reporting with CFlight.

Coverage of Syria showed our media can still mobilise journalistic resources to explain the significance of a foreign story. But it would be even better if it could also focus its attention on other ills facing society. 

The effectiveness expert told delegates at The Future of TV Advertising Global that dull ads will cost them £27m more a year to build awareness.

Many have made the decision to leave X this year — but quitting is harder than it looks. Here are some tips on how to do it should you no longer want to be part of Elon Musk’s business empire.

Media agencies are under immense pressure. With new models emerging and more evidence of what advertisers want in the new world, change is afoot. 

The lords report on news was a balanced read that contained well-meaning recommendations but, until there’s robust legislation in place, can we truly protect the future of news in the UK? 

Today, 21 November, is World Television Day. And it’s a timely reminder of how advertising can support democracy alongside commercial interest.