Newspaper and magazine wholesaler Smiths News has signed a new agreement with Daily Mail publisher Associated Newspapers (ANL), securing its second major long-term newspaper distribution contract in under two weeks.
The deal, which Smiths News describes as “transformational”, sees the group appointed as ANL’s exclusive wholesale distributor from January 2028, securing national distribution of ANL’s leading titles, including The Daily Mail, Metro and the i newspaper, to July 2037.
The award closely follows Smiths News’ announcement on 17 June of a 10-year distribution contract with News UK, publisher of The Sun, The Times and The Sunday Times, estimated to be worth an additional £125m a year in revenue.
Smiths News said the two contracts represent around 36% of the national newspapers and magazines market.
Jonathan Bunting, Smiths News chief executive, commented: “We are delighted to announce the extension and expansion of our partnership with ANL through to 2037.
“The ANL brands are amongst the most recognisable in the UK and our agreement will allow them to be enjoyed by consumers across Great Britain for many years to come. The extension also supports retailers through the freezing of delivery service charges for the life of the Contract.
“Today’s announcement continues to reinforce our position as a trusted partner for our industry and further secures a sustainable future for print news distribution, reflecting our shared commitment to supporting the industry over the long term.”
Shaun Jones, ANL head of circulation, added: “This agreement reinforces our long-term commitment to the loyal readers who love our newspapers by simplifying the national distribution network and supporting retailers.”
