Emap on track to deliver as chairman sees steady progress

by Daniel Farey-Jones Brand Republic 14-Jul-05, 15:00

LONDON – Emap has enjoyed 'sound overall trading' in the last few months, according to chairman Adam Broadbent, speaking at the company's annual general meeting today.

In consumer magazines, Broadbent reported that circulation and advertising were showing good growth. He singled out strong performances by celebrity titles Heat and Closer, football magazine Match and lads' weekly Zoo, and said the launch of Grazia "remains firmly on track".

The company was pleased with its progress of its most recent launch, the French version of Closer in June. The sales of its French TV listings magazines, which have recently been hit by the competition, are now stable month to month. Overall advertising performance was robust in a weak French market, Broadbent said.

Emap's radio advertising revenue is growing compared with a declining radio market. The company said it has been outperforming the market since last autumn.

The business division, Emap Communications, is continuing to see strong growth in display advertising and sponsorship, but the slowdown in recruitment revenues, particularly nursing, is worsening.

"Overall, despite this relatively early point in the new financial year, and the degree of uncertainty regarding the economic outlook, Emap continues to be in line to deliver against our full-year expectations," Broadbent said.

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