IPC Media in talks over further sales
IPC Media is said to be in discussions regarding the sale of some of its niche titles.
The publisher is said to be in talks with 207 Investments and Tri Active Media regarding IPC titles Superbikes, Hi-Fi News and Prediction, reports The Guardian.
Last month it was reported that IPC Media was also talks with Vitality, partners of 207 Investments and Tri Active Media, over the sale of lads magazine Loaded.
A spokesman for IPC Media said: “I can confirm that arising from the strategic review of IPC’s specialist titles, we are in consultation with staff on a number of brands.”
“But the consultation is about an intention to sell, not the completion of any sale and we will not be confirming any information about brands or prospective purchasers until and if deals complete.”
IPC Media showed a total circulation of 5,738,111 for all its titles at June’s ABCs, a 2.6% year-on-year drop.
In April, the publisher announced it was to embark on a strategic review of the specialist and niche titles in April.
Chief executive officer Evelyn Webster stated that in order to develop “multi-platform offerings” it might sell smaller titles “where they would have a stronger strategic fit and will therefore benefit from greater focus.”
IPC Media’s Look magazine has announced it is to launch a shoe in collaboration with high street retailer Office, to coincide with London Fashion Week.
Vitality currently owns gay magazine Attitude and Women’s Fitness, and has recently acquired Hair Now, Perfect Hair and Hair & Beauty. Since acquisition the publisher has been quick to exploit digitally opportunities for its new titles, launching branded iPhones and iPads apps.
