BloemExpress, as a leading local newspaper in the Free State, is excited to announce that approval has been given by the Competition Commission for it to be sold to Novus Holdings – along with other titles in the Media24 Local Community News division.
Of these titles, those who bring news to the Free State are: BloemExpress, BloemNews, Vista and VrystaatKroon. NoordkaapBulletin, with Northern Cape news, is also part of this transaction.
Media24’s hyperlocal community news division, which comprises 37 local newspapers with an ABC of more than one million copies per week, is set to continue operations seamlessly during this period of transition.
The transaction between Media24 and Novus Holdings is currently underway.
Novus Holdings, a market leader and one of Africa’s largest print production operations, is collaborating closely with local newspaper publishers to ensure that all publishing activities remain uninterrupted. This means that our valued readers and advertisers can continue to expect outstanding hyperlocal news value delivered to our communities.
André van der Veen, CEO of Novus, has expressed his enthusiasm about working with staff and management of community newspapers. He gives the assurance that Novus is committed to delivering value to both readers and advertisers, recognising the important role community newspapers play in society. Novus is dedicated to supporting and enhancing these vital publications.
Esmé Smit, general manager of Community News, is equally excited about the opportunities this transition presents for both print and digital hyperlocal news landscapes. She emphasises the unique and cherished place hyperlocal news media holds in the hearts and minds of the communities it serves.
The transition aims to enhance the quality of the publications, ensuring they remain relevant and connected to the shared space in which readers and advertisers live.
“We will continue to be there when most shop doors open for the first time, reporting on local sport, school news, municipal news, neighbourhood events; and always inform readers about uplifting and also any unsavoury practices in our areas,” says Smit.
“We will continue to serve our purpose, which is to be a true friend to each household in our catchment areas.”
The local newspapers included in this transaction span various regions, including the Eastern Cape, Boland region, and the Cape Peninsula and township areas of Cape Town.
These household newspaper brands include TygerBurger, People’s Post, City Vision, BloemNews, BloemExpress, Vista, VrystaatKroon, NoordkaapBulletin, Kouga Express, PE Express, Mthatha Express, UD News, District Mail & Helderberg Gazette, Eikestadnuus, Hermanus Times, Paarl Post, Worcester Standard & Gazette, Swartland Gazette, Weskusnuus and Weslander.
