Periodical publishers’ group FIPP has agreed to merge with WAN-Ifra, effective January 1 – 101 years after its formation.
The parties say the union will create the world’s largest and most diverse alliance of media companies, bringing together a global network of more than 20,000 media brands and technology companies across 120 countries.
Originating from France, FIPP’s membership now includes brands such as Bild, Business Insider, Politico, GQ, The New Yorker, Vogue, National Geographic, Cosmopolitan, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, Burda Style, Hello Giggles, The Economist, the New York Times Femme Actuelle.
Retiring chief executive of WAN-Ifra Vincent Peyrègne said the alliance was built on several key shared business challenges and opportunities, as traditional distinctions between media categories are becoming less pronounced, creating fertile ground for cross-sector learning. “While unique challenges remain, core business functions, including content creation, audience engagement, monetisation strategies and technology adoption, present common hurdles that are best overcome through collective intelligence and shared best practices.”
“The magazine industry’s expertise in commercial drive and revenue diversification can directly benefit news publishers, and the news media’s sophisticated digital subscription and retention strategies can provide valuable models for magazine brands.”
WAN-Ifra president Ladina Heimgartner described it as a pivotal moment for our industry. “Welcoming FIPP into the WAN-Ifra family creates an unparalleled global community for all media.
“In an environment where consolidation is key to building strength, this merger fortifies the entire media ecosystem. Together, we are better positioned to champion the values of independent journalism and create new opportunities for growth and innovation that will deliver enhanced value to all our members.”
Integration is designed to be seamless, with FIPP chief executive Alastair Lewis to lead a new community called ‘consumer lifestyle and special interest media’, which will be the home for former FIPP members. An advisory board will see current FIPP Board members represented on WAN-Ifra’s supervisory board.
The annual FIPP Congress will continue, while other established FIPP events, training programmes, and unique content will be integrated into WAN-Ifra’s portfolio.
FIPP chair Yulia Boyle said FIPP would retain its unique identity, with its Congress and dedicated services. “This merger gives us greater strength in numbers to shape our industry’s future, establish critical frameworks, and present a united front when engaging with global challenges and partners.
“In the digital age, everyone is in the same business of creating quality content and building sustainable models around it,” she added.
Pictured: Alastair Lewis will lead a new community within WAN-Ifra