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ABC has streamlined standards to reflect the digital shift.
Photograph: Jonas Leupe on Unsplash.
Today, industry-owned auditor ABC has announced updates to its
reporting standards that reflect the current media landscape and better
recognise the publishing industry’s digital transformation.
ABC says the new streamlined standards are the result of extensive
consultations with buyers, publishers and their industry bodies.
A key change is that publishers can now report both print and digital copies
sent to the same individual in their main circulation figure, added ABC. In
addition, digital copies can now be claimed in some circulation categories
that previously were restricted only to print copies.
This move, supported by the industry and approved by ABC’s board, reflects a
strategy to enable a publication’s total ABC circulation to fully represent
print and digital copies, better reflecting how media is consumed across
both formats.
Headline ABC figures under the new rules may show an increase in reporting
under the new standards. With transparency always at the core of ABC
reporting, the number of individuals receiving both digital and print copies
will be shown on ABC reports and certificates, along with further detail.
Additional changes to ABC’s standards have been made with the aim of
streamlining the audit process and providing additional flexible reporting
options that support publisher strategies.
The changes in summary:
- Both print and digital copies to the same individual can now be included in a publication’s circulation figure. The number of individuals that receive both print and digital copies will be clearly stated on ABC Certificates and Reports.
- Digital copies can also be claimed in some circulation categories that previously were restricted only to print copies.
- Circulation categories across sectors have been more closely aligned for consistency, making cross-sector comparisons easier for media buyers.
- New efficiencies lighten the workload for publishers, saving them time and resource whilst supporting their strategies to drive revenue.
ABC says ultimately, these updated standards will facilitate the smooth
delivery of data and information that is trusted, relevant in today’s
market, and continues to be used to underpin published media trading.
All media sectors are being transitioned to the new Standards in 2025. The
changes will be evident when publishers next report their ABCs as follows:
- National Newspapers and ABC Bulk Distribution: June data issued in July 2025.
- Consumer and Regional Media reporting 6-monthly: Jan – June data issued July/Aug 2025.
- Consumer and Regional Media reporting 12-monthly: Jan – Dec data issued Jan/Feb 2026.
- Business Media: Jan – Dec/Jul-Dec data issued Jan/Feb 2026.
ABC’s Chief Executive Simon Redlich said: “We’re delighted to unveil our
updated standards, delivering efficiencies for both publishers and buyers
whilst providing a more complete picture of the publishing industry. We’re
grateful to the many individuals representing buyers and sellers who have
shaped this work, enhancing the delivery of trusted data that is valued by
the whole industry.”
Belinda Beeftink, research director, IPA: “These changes demonstrate ABC’s
ongoing commitment to providing accurate and reliable data that empowers
media buyers to make informed decisions. By fully recognising the value of
digital copies and making access to relevant data even easier, ABC is
ensuring that the industry has the tools it needs to thrive.”
Sajeeda Merali, CEO, PPA: “The PPA welcomes ABC’s updated standards. By
reporting digital circulation alongside print in a consistent way, ABC is
further supporting our members’ delivery of high-quality content across
their many touchpoints. The greater ease of reporting will also be hugely
beneficial.”
Paul Sinker, director of communications, NMA: “By streamlining reporting
requirements and providing a more complete picture of digital circulation,
ABC is enabling newsbrands to further communicate the value of their
innovative digital and print products, underpinned by trusted data.”
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