Scottish and UK news organisations come together as stronger voice for publishers
Two trade bodies that represent news publishers in Scotland and the UK have joined forces to strengthen the voice of the industry.
The merger of the News Media Association and Newsbrands Scotland comes at a time when local, regional and national news publishing is seen as more important than ever in the face of technological advances such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the spread of misinformation.
Highland News and Media is a member organisation of Newsbrands Scotland. The merger will enable the two organisations to work more closely together to make the case for trusted journalism in Westminster and Holyrood, while retaining their own existing branding and staff.
Danny Cammiade, NMA chairman and Tindle Newspaper Group chief executive, said: “With significant technological developments impacting all of our lives and making the value of trusted news and editorial content ever more important, uniting the voice of news media publishers in every corner of the UK is an important step forward in strengthening our representation of the sector.
“We look forward to working together to ensure a free and sustainable press across the whole UK.”
Newsbrands Scotland president David Ward, managing director of Newsquest Scotland, said: “At a time when trust in responsible media has never been more necessary, this new partnership will bolster Newsbrands Scotland’s position as the voice of independent news publishing in Scotland, fit for the many opportunities and challenges in a rapidly evolving media landscape.”
NMA chief executive Owen Meredith added: “We are pleased to welcome Newsbrands Scotland fully into the NMA, a deal which will brings publishers across every corner of the UK together, bolstering our ability to advocate for a strong policy framework that supports local, regional and national news media.
“In today’s uncertain world, it is imperative that we continue to make the case for why journalism matters with a free and sustainable news media sector which invests in the production and distribution of trusted journalism consumed by millions of people every day.”
Newsbrands Scotland director John McLellan said: “The NMA and Newsbrands Scotland have a long and proud history of working very effectively together to make the case for a free and sustainable press right across the UK.
“I am delighted that this partnership is going to be strengthened and believe it will deliver even more value for the publishers we represent.”
The merger will take effect from January 1, 2025.
