Johnston Press Bucks Advertising Trend With Positive Growth For 2001

Growth of 3.6% in ad revenue for the period to June 2001, boosted by a 13% rise in recruitment advertising, has slowed in the second half but remained positive. Like for like recruitment advertising in the second half dropped to 1.4% although growth in other advertising sectors has been consistent with H1.

The group said that circulation remains ‘stable’ overall although nine evening titles are currently showing small declines. New media investments will make a ‘modest contribution’ to the groups full year results.

Despite impressive growth in tough conditions, the group emphasises that cost control measures will remain in order to offset slower revenue growth. Johnston says that it is confident going into 2002 and believes that the company’s performance will be satisfactory with closely managed revenues and costs as well as the anticipated reduction in newsprint costs.