UK online publishers’ revenue grew 60 percent to £575 million ($1.1 billion) last year and they are forecasting faster growth for 2007. Members of the UK Association of Online Publishers reported to the organization’s annual census that digital now comprises 12 percent of their companies’ overall growth (many of those publishers are web sites affiliated to newspapers).
Once again, it is largely down to the rapid expansion in online advertising, which made up 75 percent of internet revenue (display ads at 59 percent, classifieds at 16 percent). Revenue from paid content made up 12 percent – double the previous year (AOP said 46 percent of its members now charge for some content, a rise of nine percent). Publishers said broadband, mobile and community were the biggest opportunities this year, while threats included new competitors, security and government restrictions. They expect 72 percent revenue growth for 2007