Category: Industry News

  • Condé Nast appoints new Global Editorial Director of GQ

    Condé Nast appoints new Global Editorial Director of GQ

    Baidawi’s appointment takes effect immediately, overseeing the brand’s editorial vision and content strategy across its global network of 12 owned and operated editions. His first print issue will be the September 2026 edition. In this role, Baidawi will also oversee Pitchfork, led by Mano Sundaresan.

    Baidawi has served as Deputy Global Editorial Director of GQ and Head of Editorial Content at British GQ since 2021, where he managed GQ’s global editorial leadership. In that role, he helped strengthen alignment across editions while driving editorial innovation and audience growth.

    Anna Wintour, Chief Content Officer, Condé Nast, commented “Adam makes perfect sense to lead GQ because he’s a writer and journalist first – a cultural thinker at a time when the culture needs to be thought through, and even interrogated a little.

    Having worked all over the world, he has a global sensibility, plenty of wit and style, and an easy collegiality with the editors he works with. This is someone GQ’s readers can expect to challenge received wisdom – about modern masculinity and the worlds of celebrity, sport, and fashion – and have a lot of fun doing so.”

    Adam Baidawi said “it is the honour of my life to lead GQ into a new era, and to build on the legacy of the great editors I grew up admiring. GQ has remarkable power to define the conversations around style, culture and masculinity.

    I look forward to using that power in new and surprising ways. I’m grateful to Anna and to our global teams for their trust. We have ambitious work ahead.”

    Adam has shepherded British GQ to both editorial and commercial success during his time overseeing the brand. He doubled revenue on flagship events including Men of the Year and GQ Heroes since his appointment, and has overseen covers including Paul Mescal, Malala, Charli xcx, Mo Salah, Andrew Garfield and Pierce Brosnan.

    Previously, Baidawi was Editor-in-Chief of GQ Middle East from 2018 to 2021. Earlier in his career, he was a correspondent for The New York Times in Australia. His first GQ byline was for the brand’s Australian edition, more than 15 years ago.

  • Immediate announces newly created role: Portfolio Managing Director 

    Immediate announces newly created role: Portfolio Managing Director 

    Riley will work alongside Immediate’s brand leadership teams, as well as its product, commercial and technology teams, to develop and implement editorial, commercial and audience growth strategies, and new product and revenue opportunities. 

    With over a decade in senior media leadership roles, Riley joins Immediate from The Standard, where as CEO she’s strengthened the brand’s core proposition, whilst accelerating its digital evolution, maximising impact for audiences and clients alike.    

    Prior to that, as Global Managing Director at Refinery29, she helped the digital entertainment business drive reach and revenues across multiple territories, through IP innovation, digital transformation, and strategic content, and distribution partnerships. Tamar has also held senior Audience and Content strategy roles at i-D Magazine and Vice Media. 

    Tamar Riley says: “I’m excited to be joining Immediate at a pivotal moment. With its portfolio of powerful, trusted brands and a strong focus on innovation and digital growth, there’s a clear opportunity to evolve how we engage audiences and create value. I’m looking forward to shaping what’s next and driving sustainable growth across the portfolio.” 

    Sean Cornwell, CEO, Immediate, adds: “I’m delighted to welcome Tamar to Immediate. We’ve got ambitious plans to accelerate growth across our portfolio, driving deeper engagement for our brands through new content offers across multiple platforms, growing our subscriptions base and developing new partnerships and commercial opportunities to diversify and grow our revenues. Tamar has a fantastic track record of delivering successful audience, transformation and revenue strategies, alongside a commitment to quality content and we’re really looking forward to her joining the team.” 

    Riley will take up the role and join Immediate’s Leadership Team in early March.

  • Radio Times unveils new visual identity

    Radio Times unveils new visual identity

    The refreshed look centres around a new logotype and RT digital icon and draws inspiration from the Radio Times mastheads of the 1970s and 80s, whilst futureproofing the brand with a contemporary new feel, added the publisher.

    Zoe Helme Marketing & Operations Director at Radio Times, says “our new identity is rooted in our 100-year heritage, but it’s been designed for the way people discover and enjoy entertainment today.”

    The new digital icon – a compact, instantly recognisable RT mark – becomes the brand’s primary online signifier, representing Radio Times wherever it appears in the digital world, the publisher continued. Bringing the icon to life, The Beam: a bold new graphic device inspired by a spotlight, will radiate from it, representing Radio Times’ role in cutting through the noise to shine a light on the entertainment that truly deserves attention.

    The new colour palette pairs a deep, heritage-inspired Dark Green with a vibrant Bright Green designed specifically for digital screens, creating seamless audience experience, wherever they are consuming Radio Times’ content.

    Helme continues, “this is the biggest visual change to Radio Times in a generation, and it marks a really important moment for us. Our new identity is rooted in our 100-year heritage, but it’s been designed for the way people discover and enjoy entertainment today.”

    “At a time when choice can feel overwhelming, our role is simple: to shine a light on what’s genuinely worth watching. This new look reflects who we are now — not just an iconic magazine, but a modern, digital-first entertainment brand that helps people spend less time searching and more time enjoying the good stuff.”

    Radio Times says it recognises that audiences are faced with an unprecedented volume of content across TV, film and audio platforms. Research shows that viewers spend an average of 10,920 minutes a year deciding what to watch. Radio Times exists to simplify that choice. Through curation and recommendations, it says its editorial team identifies and highlights high-quality television, films and podcasts, helping audiences find what’s worth their time quickly and confidently.

  • 67 Bricks appoints former international CEO as Board advisor

    67 Bricks appoints former international CEO as Board advisor

    He will bring his wealth of experience in scaling information businesses and guiding publishers through major technology and business-model transitions, something that 67 Bricks regularly works with leading information businesses to achieve.

    Peter’s career as an international CEO has spanned decades of working with global information publishers, taking companies through their initial transition from print to digital and then mapping and implementing their future growth strategies with a focus on developing and introducing the right mix of services, software and solutions.

    When asked about the new appointment, Peter said, ‘I am delighted to be joining 67 Bricks at this exciting time. They have a great track record of partnering with leaders in the information sector both to respond to the challenges and opportunities of technology and market changes and to deliver great products and value to their customers. I look forward to working with and learning from the owners, Jennifer and the senior management team.’

    ‘It’s fantastic to be formalising our relationship with Peter, who has such a depth of expertise to share with us,’ remarked Jennifer Schivas, 67 Bricks CEO. ‘As our company continues to grow and serve new markets, it will be invaluable to have his sage advice and guidance.’

    Lake joins 67 Bricks at a period of rapid growth. Recent new clients have included Informa, Infopro and Dealscribe, and they continue to make waves with awards nominations and wins, as well as being increasingly sought after for their perspectives on the future of data and information businesses.

  • Air Business achieves sustainability accreditation for event logistics

    Air Business achieves sustainability accreditation for event logistics

    ESSA is the UK’s leading trade body representing event suppliers and service providers, recognised for driving high standards across the industry. The ESSA Sustainability Accreditation is a robust, evidence-based assessment of how effectively sustainability is embedded within an organisation’s operations and its support for event organisers, exhibitors and contractors.

    Following evaluations in waste management, energy efficiency, carbon tracking, sustainable purchasing, employee involvement and governance, this achievement reflects the company’s sustainability efforts and dedication to ongoing improvement.

    Luke Stephens, Head of Event Operations and Strategy at Air Business and Vice Chair of ESSA’s Logistics Working Group, commented “Achieving ESSA Tier 4 is a major advance for Air Business and a clear signal of the role we’re playing in raising standards across event logistics,”

    Reaching this high-level accreditation within the first year of certification demonstrates that sustainability is not an add-on for us – it’s embedded in how we operate, how we partner with clients and how we help shape a more responsible events industry.”

    With this accreditation, Air Business is now ESSA’s highest-graded logistics company for sustainability, firmly strengthening its position as a trusted partner for clients seeking to advance their own sustainability goals.

  • We need your input: LLM partnerships

    We need your input: LLM partnerships

    The Reuters Institute’s 2026 report indicates that only 20% of publishers expect licensing revenues from AI companies to be substantial, with half (49%) anticipating a minor contribution.

    However, with already evident implications of zero-click searches and further adoption of AI chatbots, we cannot accept that licensing deals will provide only marginal relief given the existing revenue pressures our industry faces.

    Your participation will directly inform the decision-making framework we are developing for PPA member businesses.

    Survey objectives

    Validate deal conditions for long-term sustainability

    Early data from major publishers reveals concerning patterns. While the average licensing deal is sizeable (estimated at £20 – £25m) we need comprehensive data to determine whether these agreements adequately protect publishers’ future revenues or merely provide short-term relief while underlying traffic and revenue losses accelerate.

    The PPA will not collect or request individual deal values or commercially sensitive terms. Any aggregated insights will derive solely from anonymised, non‑identifiable responses.

    Assess comparative impact on publishers who have entered deals

    We seek to understand whether publishers with licensing agreements are experiencing more or less audience migration to LLM interfaces compared to those without deals. This will help validate whether licensing partnerships offer protection against traffic displacement.

    Build evidence-based industry advocacy

    With limited transparency around existing deals, we need aggregated, anonymised data to strengthen our collective negotiating position and inform policy discussions.

    Your confidentiality is assured

    The survey focuses on high‑level, non‑commercial impacts rather than specific deal terms. We will not request or disseminate any information related to pricing, individual licensing negotiations, or future commercial strategies. All data will be anonymised and aggregated strictly for research and policy purposes.

    We anticipate the survey will take approximately 8 minutes to complete. Please respond by 24/02/26.


    Thank you for contributing to this essential industry research.

  • Haymarket Group reports £11.5 million in annual profits

    Haymarket Group reports £11.5 million in annual profits

    Haymarket Group reports annual earnings of £11.5 million in the last financial year, ending 30 June 2025. Accounts filed at Companies House show the total turnover in this period was £175 million, reporting a healthy underlying profit, despite a turbulent global economy.

    The results reflect a year of strategic balancing across Haymarket’s international footprint. The Group saw positive growth in the UK, a steady performance in Germany, and its best performance in over a decade in Asia. In the US profits decreased by £2.3 million year-on-year, a result driven by a combination of challenging healthcare market conditions, political elections and the significant impact of fluctuating exchange rates. Despite these factors, the Group’s balanced portfolio across medical, automotive, and marketing-communications sectors ensured steady profitability.

    Haymarket continued to invest in its future, with a particular emphasis on New Product Development (NPD). This targeted investment in digital platforms and data-led products is central to the Group’s strategy to move toward sustainable, paid-content revenue streams.

    A monumental achievement for the business was becoming Certified B Corp™. This global accreditation follows a three-year effort to meet the highest standards of social and environmental performance. This commitment is further evidenced by the £440,000 raised for charity and nearly 2,000 volunteer hours dedicated by employees over the past year.

    Kevin Costello, Global Chief Executive, Haymarket said:”Our strategy continues to focus on a balanced portfolio of diversified revenues while accelerating our digital transformation. By shifting towards digital platforms and paid-content models, we are building a more sustainable and resilient business.

    “We remain firmly people-first. With over 1,200 colleagues across eight countries and an average global tenure of over seven years, our culture is our greatest asset. We continue to invest in our future through robust apprenticeship and early-career programmes in the UK and US, which are vital for driving workforce diversity and fresh perspectives.

    While we continue to invest organically, we also have the healthy cash reserves needed to pursue new ventures. Our recent acquisition of MWCR Ltd from Centaur Media Plc in September 2025 is a testament to our commitment to accelerating growth in our chosen markets.”

    Rupert Heseltine, Chairman, Haymarket Group added: “I am immensely proud that Haymarket is now a Certified B Corp™. This is a powerful testament to our commitment to accountability and transparency. In uncertain times, our geographic and sectoral diversification has made us more resilient. I want to thank every one of our employees whose talent and hard work ensure we continue to deliver the remarkable content that inspires and informs our audiences.”

    The Board remains mindful of ongoing macroeconomic uncertainties but is confident that the Group’s strong cash position and diversified revenue streams provide a robust foundation for the future. Post-balance sheet activity, including the acquisition of marketing communication assets and continued investment in technology, positions Haymarket for further growth in the 2025/26 financial year.

  • The value of newsletters in your content ecosystem

    The value of newsletters in your content ecosystem

    At the 2025 PPA Independent Publisher Conference, Chris Sopher (Co-Founder & CEO, Letterhead); Jessica Crouch Perry (Product Director, Condé Nast); and Mel McVeigh (Strategic Consultant – Digital Product, PPA) demonstrated how a strong newsletter portfolio amplifies your editorial voice, expands your owned audience, and unlocks commercial opportunities.

    Listen to the audio from the session, and read the key takeaways below

    PPA members have access to extensive resources that aren’t publicly available. If you’re a member, browse our resource hub. If you’re not a PPA member, here’s how you can get in touch and what you’re missing out on.

    PPA event delegates also receive post-event content, including write-ups and key resources. You can view our events here. And, make sure you sign up to our newsletter and event updates here.

    Key takeaways
    1. Newsletters can be your biggest traffic driver
      Newsletters give you direct access to an audience that’s actually opted in. It’s been two years since Condé Nast’s newsletter traffic overtook social, and for some brands it accounts for a quarter of all traffic.

    2. Most newsletters are too long
      Don’t try to do too much with one newsletter. Ask yourself, what is the purpose of this newsletter? Who is it going to, and what action do I want the to take? Different categories of content need their own newsletters and strategies.

    3. Newsletter sign-ups can convert into paying subscriptions
      Newsletters drive business (subscription, ads, commerce, and affiliates), and readers are four and a half times more likely to subscribe to the brand (for example, 10% of the New Yorker’s subscribers have converted from being newsletter readers).

    4. What works well for one audience won’t work for another
      To truly maximise the results, you need to be dedicated to providing what your audience wants. If you can’t answer why a newsletter exists, then it shouldn’t. Really tease out why they’re coming to you, and make it easy for them to see that you deliver on that.

  • Cosmopolitan collaborates with Boots for new season beauty box

    Cosmopolitan collaborates with Boots for new season beauty box

    After the sellout success of their summer box, Cosmopolitan has teamed up with Boots again to curate a beauty box packed with everything their readers need to transition seamlessly into the new season.

    Inside this box, you’ll find a selection of the Cosmo Beauty Team’s favourite products, from nourishing skincare to hydrating haircare and fresh make-up, including new launches and cult classics.

    Full list of products:

    • Huda Beauty Faux Filler Extra Shine Lip Gloss in the shade Foxy 3.9ml – FULL SIZE
    • Fenty Beauty Hella Thicc Volumizing Mascara in the shade Cuz I’m Black 6g – FULL SIZE
    • Amika Superfruit Star Lightweight Hair Styling Oil 50ml – FULL SIZE
    • PRMR Vitatinol Serum Gel Mask 34g – FULL SIZE
    • Sacheu Lip Liner Stay-n in the shade Getredy 3.5ml – FULL SIZE
    • Supergoop! PLAY™ Mineral Lotion SPF 30 100ml – FULL SIZE
    • e.l.f Power Grip Matte Primer 26ml – FULL SIZE
    • Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water Cleanser for Sensitive Skin 250ml – FULL SIZE
    • COSRX The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum 150ml – FULL SIZE
    • FUL Intense Moisture Hair Mask 300ml – FULL SIZE
    • Mario Badescu Drying Lotion 29ml – FULL SIZE
    • Laneige Bouncy & Firm Eye Sleeping Mask 20ml- FULL SIZE
    • Anastasia Beverly Hills Mini Dewy Set Hydrating Setting Spray 30ml
    • Cetaphil Moisturising Lotion 29ml
    • Sol De Janeiro Brazilian 4Play Moisturizing Shower Cream-Gel 90ml
    • Biodance Vita Niacinamide Gel Toner Pad 2 pads
    • Catrice Blur Balm Blush Palette 010 6g
    • Lee Stafford Dry Shampoo 50ml

    The box is available for purchase at Boots now, while stocks last.

  • Immediate launches IX: a dedicated experiential agency

    Immediate launches IX: a dedicated experiential agency

    Led by Director of Experiential, Rob Hunt, IX launches to meet the growing demand for authentic, real-world connection.

    IX offers a full-service ecosystem, distinguishing it from traditional experiential shops, leveraging Immediate’s live consumer events and creative partnership expertise.  

    Immediate has a 20 million reach across food, gardening and entertainment brands, and ishome to flagship events like the Good Food Show, BBC Gardeners’ World Live and Move It, through its consumer events division, Immediate Live. 

    The agency will call on proprietary data and consumer insights to identify specific audience segments, supported by an editorial team with an understanding of emerging consumer trends. The team will create bespoke activations, connecting brands with scaled, passionate audiences. 

    While IX is a new dedicated arm, it builds on Immediate’s over 40 experiential partnerships, ranging from Michelin-starred culinary events to high-profile film premieres. 

    Event opportunities will include: 

    • Co-branded events  
      Fully integrated experiences that can be supported where relevant by Immediate’s trusted editorial voices 
    • Community events  
      Live moments that bring like-minded audiences together 
    • Pop-ups
      High impact, immersive executions in unique spaces 
    • Road shows  
      One-stop shop for delivering unique experiences across the country 

    Brands will also be able to access Immediate’s 9m monthly social audience to provide pre and post-event engagement, as well as take advantage of Immediate’s partnerships with alternative media outlets and formats.  

    The launch team also includes Kat Tek, Head of Experiential, with strategic backing from Paul Byrom, Managing, Director of Immediate Live. and Sophie Walker, Immediate Live’s Director of Operations.

    Rob Hunt, Director of Experiential, Immediate, says: “Experiential works best when it’s credible, relevant and well-crafted. After years of delivering some of the UK’s best-loved events and consumer campaigns, launching IX is the next natural next step. We’re bringing together deep expertise to help brands move beyond pure reach and show up in new and creative spaces.

    Our goal is to create unmissable moments – putting products directly into consumers’ hands and using our ‘one team’ model to handle everything from ideation to amplification. We’re here to turn brand vision into tangible, real-world experiences.”