Editions - National Newspapers

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Editions

An Edition is a version of an issue of the publication that varies from the Main Edition (the UK and/or ROI version that has the largest circulation), usually for reasons of geography, timing or content. How it has varied from the Main Edition will affect how or whether it can be included on the same ABC Certificate.

Principles

1. An Edition must be in keeping with the overall issue to be reported on the same ABC Certificate

2. Changes to an Edition may require a breakout on the ABC Certificate

Requirements

1. An Edition must be in keeping with the overall issue to be reported on the same ABC Certificate

1. The Edition must carry a logotype/masthead incorporating the generic name of the Main Edition.

2. The branding and appearance of the Edition must be sufficiently similar as to be considered the same product as the Main Edition. For the avoidance of doubt a change in format alone (such as a change in publication size) will not infringe this requirement.

3. The Edition must carry the same cover date/issue identification as the Main Edition.

4. The Edition must be published and distributed on or about the same date as the Main Edition.

5. The number of display advertisements in an Edition can change up to 100% from the Main Edition (Main Edition excludes separate surveys or magazines).

6. Additionally, digital copies:

   1. Must be published electronically as a unit (For the avoidance of doubt, a website cannot be reported as an edition of the publication).

   2. May be reformatted to suit the different delivery medium. For example: changes in page size or order.

   3. May include may include electronic enhancements to editorial or advertising to take advantage of the medium. For example: pictures replaced with video, include live social media or news feeds.

   4. Must be audited by ABC Staff Auditors. You must provide us with free access to digital copies on request.

      You are requested to register your intention to claim digital copies in advance of your first claim, as we may carry out audit work during the reporting period.

2. Changes to an Edition may require a breakout on the ABC Certificate (Print copies only)

1. Where the number of display advertisements changes by 30% or more from the Main Edition, you must report the average monthly circulation geographically and the UK/Scotland/ROI breakout by circulation type for that Edition, which will appear on the Certificate.

2. Advertising changes are ignored for ABC purposes if:

   1. They are made solely because their inclusion would, in the opinion of the publisher, the advertiser or their agency render the publication illegal in a particular territory. Note: This opinion must be judged reasonable by the auditor and ABC.

   2. The advertisement has changed but it is the same advertiser.

3. Where the Edition is in a different format than the Main Edition, for example tabloid rather than broadsheet, you must report the average monthly circulation geographically and the UK/Scotland/ROI breakout by circulation type for that Edition, which will appear on the Certificate.

4. If you do need to breakout an Edition then the Main Edition will be broken out as well.

Guidance

No additional guidance.