Johnston Press Buys Scottish Titles From Archant

Johnston Press, the regional newspaper group, has acquired eight Scottish newspapers from rival company Archant.

Johnston paid £11.2 million for three paid-for papers in the north-east of Scotland and five free papers in central Scotland.

In the year ended 31 December 2006 the business, which will become part of Johnston’s Scottish division, generated revenues of £6.95 million.

Tim Bowdler, chief executive of Johnston Press, said: “We are delighted to have been able to reach agreement with Archant to acquire these titles. This is an attractive portfolio of weekly newspapers which fits well with our existing titles in their respective areas.

“We look forward to working with the Scottish Archant publishing team to build on an already successful business for the benefit of readers and advertisers in the local communities they serve.”

The acquisition is conditional on clearance from the Regulatory Authorities.

Johnston Press: 0207 583 2100 www.johnstonpress.co.uk