Newsquest Overtakes Northcliffe In Regional Newspaper Top 20

The latest figures from the Newspaper Society show that Trinity Mirror has retained its place as the largest regional press publisher, despite acquisitions by its nearest rivals between January and July. Newsquest Media Group has displaced Northcliffe Newspapers at number two in the table, following its acquisition of Newscom in May (see Newsquest Signs £444m Deal For Control Of NEWSCOM). Northcliffe Newspapers acquired Adscene titles and Bristol United Press during the same period, and holds third position ahead of Johnston Press.

The 20 largest publishers now account for 84% of all regional press titles compared to 78% in January 2000, and 95% of total circulation, compared to 94% at the beginning of the year. For the first time the Top 20 is based on individual titles rather than buying points.

The total number of regional press publishers has reduced since January from 115 to 106. Of these, 44 produce just one title each.

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