Key takeaways for this year’s report include:
- Call to action from the industry
Industry leaders from the IPA, ISBA and the PPA have penned a letter reminding the industry about the importance of certified data in supporting trusted ad trading.
The letter calls for buyers to support the use of trusted ABC data, and highlights how ABC delivers relevant insight into the market, shining a light as publishers adapt their strategies to meet changing consumer preferences.
You can read the full letter below or on the Consumer Media Report Page - Highlights from the data
Our report reveals how changing reader habits are reshaping a dynamic market. Here are some data highlights from 2024:- 435,098,504 print and digital magazine copies went direct to consumers
- This encompassed 43 market sectors, covered by 62 media owners
- Digital copies continue to grow with an increase of 7% YoY*, reflecting evolving consumer habits
- Subscriptions strong; representing 36% of total circulation
- Digital subscriptions are up by 20% YoY*
- 67% of titles reported digital copies
*Titles reporting in 2024 and 2023
Go to our 2024 Consumer Media report to see all this plus more
(available to ABC members and paid data subscribers.)
- The PPA reveals the power of published media brands
We’re pleased to share another great insights piece from the PPA this year. Exploring the breadth and depth of opportunities offered by published media brands, it’s clear that the quality extends beyond their partnership opportunities to the trustworthiness of their content and engagement of their audiences.
As Sajeeda Merali, CEO of the PPA says, “That’s why organisations like ABC matter, providing independent verification and insights that demonstrate how audiences genuinely engage with trusted editorial brands. Places where advertisers can safely share their products and services, and reach the right audience.” - Publishers tell their story
Once again, the report landing page features direct links to publisher member websites, so buyers can learn more about the added value partnership opportunities available from different publishers.
Simon Redlich, Chief Executive at ABC said, "Trust is fundamental to effective trading, which is why independently audited data plays such an important role in buying and planning decisions. Our publisher members choose to be ABC members, and this decision shows their commitment to transparency and data quality - something agencies continue to value."
Many buyers have shared similar thoughts. In the words of Alex Groom, Print & Audio Manager at PHD Media: “ABC is essential. Having a hub to see all circulation figures across the market allows us to do our job.”
18th February 2025
Industry letter co-signed by key trade associations
Dear Media Industry,
As representatives of the buy and sell sides of the industry, we’re taking the opportunity to emphasise the enduring importance of ABC membership and the continued value of certified data for the entire industry.
ABC’s survey found that 84% of buyers are wary of self-reported data, so we’re calling for buyers to support the use of an ABC figure when planning and buying magazine media. For ABC-certified publishers, their decision to make transparent data available demonstrates a clear commitment to buyers and to trusted trading practices.
As a Joint Industry Currency, created by the industry for the industry, ABC is charged with delivering quality, transparent data that we can all trust. And with publishers continually innovating and adapting to changing consumer preferences, ABC data remains at the forefront, delivering relevant market insights.
We trust that this report, along with success stories from publishers highlighting their products, strategies and audiences, will empower buyers to make informed buying decisions that will enhance the impact of their campaigns.
Belinda Beeftink, Research Director, IPA
Phil Smith, Director General, ISBA
Sajeeda Merali, CEO, PPA
