BBC to publish Lonely Planet magazine

by John Reynolds, Media Week 05-Aug-08, 13:45

LONDON - BBC Magazines is to launch Lonely Planet magazine in the UK later this year.

The launch of the title is the first major brand extension of the travel guide publisher, since the BBC's commercial arm, BBC Worldwide, acquired a 75% stake in it last October.

The title will be available on news-stands and through subscriptions.

The monthly title will be aimed at frequent travellers and feature a mix of editorial and photography, with a particular focus on ideas for future trips, both short breaks and long-haul journeys

The BBC has not given details of the cover price of the magazine or its proposed circulation. It said the title will appeal to "open-minded, inquisitive people" who have a sense of adventure.

BBC Magazines group editorial director Nick Brett said: "Editorially, the two brands are a perfect match for each other.

"Lonely Planet has long wanted a magazine in its portfolio, which we can now provide, and the BBC has an array of travel programmes and talent that we can bring to the party."

The title well be published from BBC Worldwide's West London office and will be edited by Peter Grunert, previously deputy editor of BBC Worldwide's Top Gear Magazine.