Emap Radio Revenues To Outperform Market

Media group, Emap, has revealed a positive trading update for the first half of 2005, predicting radio revenues will “outperform” the market, enjoying an increase of 2% year on year, reflecting the group’s strong presence in the digital arena.

Total revenues for the first six months of 2005 are expected to grow by 5%, with underlying group revenues up by 1% on an underlying basis.

Emap’s UK consumer magazine revenues have been good, rising by 5% in total and by 2% on a underlying basis, with many titles, such as Closer, Heat and Zoo, seeing strong growth. Consumer magazine advertising is also on the up, increasing by 6% in total and 5% on an underlying basis, with internet advertising up by 80% year on year.

Consumer magazine newsstand revenues in France, however, are not so strong, with Emap claiming revenues to be down by 7% year on year on an underlying basis, reflecting the weakness in the overall newsstand market.

The successful acquisition of Scottish Radio Holdings (SRH), bought in June for £391 million, has given Emap a 23% share of UK consumer listening ours and a strong position in the Republic of Ireland.

According to Emap, the outlook for UK consumer magazine circulation and advertising revenues continues to be healthy, with growth across the underlying portfolios being driven by the weekly magazines.

Emap claims that the current trading indicates that the group remains on track to deliver in line with its expectations, despite a tough environment.

Emap’s interim results will be announced on 15 November 2005.

Emap: 01733 568 900 www.emap.co.uk