Sample Free Distribution - Consumer Magazines

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Sample Free Distribution

Free copies distributed, on an irregular basis, using an existing ABC Free Distribution category. 

Principles

1. Distribution uses an existing ABC Free Distribution category, without the need for a regular and consistent basis

2. Prior notification of distribution details to ABC

3. Distribution must be of an existing edition claimed on the certificate

Requirements 

1. Distribution uses an existing ABC Free Distribution category, without the need for a regular and consistent basis

1. The requirements of the relevant Consumer Magazine Free Distribution category apply, with the exception that distribution may be of a single issue.

   1. The Free Distribution categories eligible for reporting as Sample Free Distribution are:

      • Controlled Free Circulation
      • Non-Controlled Free Circulation
      • Monitored Free Distribution 
      • Free Retail Voucher Copies
      • Free Letterbox
        
        

2. Requirements relating to distribution across issues being on a regular and consistent basis and changes from previous issues are ignored.

2. Prior notification of distribution details to ABC  

1. You must obtain ABC’s agreement in advance of the distribution for sample copies under the Monitored Free Distribution and Free Letterbox distribution methods, having provided full details of timings, delivery locations etc. This is to enable audit work to be conducted at the appropriate time, including real time testing where appropriate.

3. Distribution must be of an existing edition claimed on the certificate

1. The copies must be broadly similar to an existing edition being claimed on the certificate. Therefore a certificate cannot comprise copies claimed in the Sample Free Distribution category alone. 

Reporting

You will report Sample Free Distribution as follows, which will be broken out on the ABC Certificate: 

1. By total average Sample Free Distribution of the issues for the period, analysed by:

1. By geographical type: 

   • United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland

   • Other Countries

2. By total average Sample Free Distribution over the Reporting Period analysed into:

1. Net

2.  Gross

3. For each issue claimed:

1. An analysis by as follows:

   1. Distribution type - E.g. Net distribution - by hand, Net distribution - other, Gross

   2. A statement describing how and where the copies are distributed (covering both the geographical location and type of distribution point and, if the copies are packaged the accompanying product).

   3. The number of copies.

 Illustration of data required for Sample Free Distribution - Monitored Free Distribution  

4. If you have claimed repurposed unsold retail copies, then you must combine the repurposed copies with any other repurposed copies in other categories and report the total as a percentage of the total average circulation for the reporting period. 

Guidance

No additional guidance.