This week’s announcement that Smiths News has been appointed to distribute the Telegraph and Sunday Telegraph nationally across England, Scotland and Wales from October 2027 was expected, the Federation of Independent Retailers (The Fed) has said.
The Fed’s national president, Hemanshu Patel, said: “Given the direction of travel in newspaper distribution and following previous announcements involving Smiths News, News UK, Associated News and Frontline, and Seymour’s distributed publications across Great Britain, it was perhaps only a matter of time before the Telegraph Media Group followed suit.
“However, while further consolidation of distribution arrangements may be the direction the industry is taking, it’s essential the practical implications for news retailers are fully understood and addressed.
“As we move towards this significant change, there must be careful planning, collaboration and close attention to detail from all parties to ensure a smooth transition.
“We also need to ensure that the newspaper and magazine category remains affordable and profitable for retailers, and that the industry can successfully manage the changes.”
Constructive engagement
Patel added that the Fed will continue to engage constructively with publishers, wholesalers and its members, raising concerns where necessary and working towards arrangements that protect the interests of independent retailers.
“Our priority is to ensure that newsagents can continue to serve their communities and that newspapers and magazines remain a viable category for the future,” Patel concluded.
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