Two publications covering business news in the North-East of England are set to join forces after a buyout deal.
Multi-platform publisher North East Times has acquired BDaily, which publishes a business news website covering the North-East, Yorkshire and London.
Based in Gateshead, North-East Times currently publishes a bi-monthly magazine alongside a business news website.
Work is now underway to refresh Bdaily, with a view to expanding nationally and a relaunch planned for the next few weeks.
Pictured left to right: John Duns, North East Times business development director; Vanessa Middleton, Square One Law corporate solicitor; Roy Stanley, Groundsix chair; and Pete Mallon, North East Times managing director
North East Times managing director Pete Mallon says the acquisition of Bdaily will catalyse its next growth phase.
He said: “We relaunched North East Times with the aim of becoming the UK’s most engaging and aesthetically striking business sector publisher.
“And through North East Times Magazine – which complements original and compelling long-form features of individuals and businesses making positive change with analytical and considered insights – we’ve achieved that goal.
“But we are much more than a magazine. We have an equally strong digital presence and our events portfolio – which includes awards evenings and roundtable and panel discussions – spans multiple sectors alongside partners from Northumberland to Teesside.
“Bdaily will add a further dimension to that offer through dedicated daily news stories and features.”
“With a new North East mayor and headline investment and job creation plans matched by great national political change, the region is a rapidly evolving place, and with Bdaily now part of our stable, we’ll continue to lead the charge on covering the stories that matter. We can’t wait to get going.”
Roy Stanley, chair of BDaily’s former owner Groundsix, says he is excited to see the digital brand develop as part of North East Times.
He added: “The team and I are incredibly proud of how Bdaily has grown over the last decade, becoming a trusted and well-read platform for thousands every day. And we’re delighted to have agreed a deal with North East Times to maintain such progress.
“We wanted to retain Bdaily’s regional roots, and the brand becoming part of North East Times does just that.
“I know Pete and his team have some exciting plans to build on Bdaily’s achievements, and I’m excited see them come to fruition.”
