Future reports recent acquisitions as profitable; Digital publishers High Times acquired by investors; The Economist and Bloomberg strike licensing deal
Digital publishers acquire new media properties to fill gaps they see as potentials for success. Today we’re reporting on some of the recent acquisitions taking place.
We begin with Future, which has reported growth with the help of its recent acquisitions. Talking New Media reports, “The headline on most reports abut Future plc’s Q2 earnings will be that the magazine company’s revenue dramatically increased, and that it reported a big jump in operating profits. Those results were driven by acquisitions of Imagine Publishing and Team Rock”.
[text_ad]
“…There was growth elsewhere, beyond the adding a few ad pages by adding titles, as both events and e-commerce revenue rose.” The article continued with a look at the company’s earning report.
We next move to another example of digital publishers being acquired by other firms. This time we’re looking at High Times. Folio: reports, “A group of investors including musician Damian Marley have purchased a 60 percent stake in the brand, which includes the monthly magazine, website, and annual Cannabis Cup competition, in a deal reportedly valued at $70 million.”
“Adam Levin, whose L.A.-based investment firm Oreva Capital spearheaded the acquisition, will take over as CEO.”
The article continued with a look at the High Times’ placement in the growing market. “With states across the country scrambling to legalize both medicinal and recreational marijuana usage, and legal weed sales poised to top $20 billion in the next five years, according to several estimates, the time appears right to shepherd High Times from its roots as a bastion of counterculture media to a mainstream, multi-channel enterprise.”
Our last story focuses on a licensing deal between The Economist and Bloomberg Media. Folio: reports, “Beginning in Q3, Bloomberg Media Distribution will offer clients access to The Economist‘s Daily Watch series of original short films covering everything from news and finance to politics, tech, and science.”
“It’s all part of an effort to offer clients the best consumer experience possible across any device, Josh Rucci, general manger of Bloomberg Media Distribution, tells Folio:.”
This isn’t the first time Bloomberg has partnered with other major publications. “For Bloomberg, the Economist partnership comes on the heels of similar distribution deals signed last October with The Hollywood Reporter, Billboard, Mexican-based outlet El Financierio, and STAT.”
Overall, it seems this is partnership is a solid attempt at strengthening the brand of The Economist. “As for The Economist, access to Bloomberg clients likely offers the London-based outlet a valuable opportunity for brand positioning as it aims to raise its global profile, particularly in North America.”
Digital publishers are expanding their offerings and brand recognition by making acquisitions and connecting with aligned businesses for partnerships. We’re sure to see more of in 2017 and we will keep you posted with the latest news.
Do you need help planning for the future of your digital publishing brand? If so, get in touch with me today. I have a long history of helping digital publishers restructure and strategize for success.
