DC Thomson buys publisher

Media group DC Thomson has snapped up a portfolio of 40 magazine titles as part of a deal to buy a specialist publisher in England. The Dundee-based firm said the acquisition of Aceville Publications for an undisclosed sum means it is now one the top five publishers of consumer magazines in the UK.

Aceville’s titles, which mainly focus on the craft, gardening, health and enterprise sectors include Sew, What Franchise and Grow Your Own. DC Thomson’s media arm chief executive Mike Watson said the deal was the largest acquisition within the business for a number of years and will “materially change the landscape” for the company. “The team at Aceville, and their portfolio, are a great fit for our business and this collaboration opens up a host of opportunities for both businesses. This is a hugely exciting time for everyone at DC Thomson Media and Aceville,” he said. The acquisition of Colchester-based Aceville will create a combined portfolio of around 70 magazines as well as a number of digital properties and events. DC Thomson Media currently owns more than 20 magazines, including the The People’s Friend and Beano. Matthew Tudor, managing director at Aceville which employs around 190 staff, said, “We’re thrilled to be joining DC Thomson Media. They have great heritage and credibility in the publishing industry and I’m looking forward to working together to strengthen the combined portfolio. “DC Thomson Media holds some brilliant brands and I’m confident the Aceville titles and expertise will complement this. The portfolios align brilliantly and bring real opportunity to improve content for all of our readers.”

According to its latest accounts for 2017, Aceville Publications had assets over just over £4m at the end of the year.