Trinity merges Scottish newspapers

The Daily Record and Sunday Mail newspapers are to merge with 20 local titles in a major company restructure, it was announced today.

Trinity Mirror said the move will create "Scotland's biggest publishing business" under the name Media Scotland. It will link up with 20 local titles, including the Ayrshire Post and Stirling Observer, under the new brand.

In all, Media Scotland will comprise the two national titles; The Glaswegian; Metro Scotland; 20 local papers under sister company Scottish and Universal Newspapers; Business Insider magazine; an events division and 36 websites.

The company said in a statement: "Media Scotland will deliver unrivalled scale and reach across the Scottish market, reaching 1.5 million readers each weekday and 1.1 million readers on a Sunday. In addition it will reach 2.6 million unique digital users a month."

Mark Hollinshead, managing director of the company's UK national titles, will extend his responsibilities and become managing director of Media Scotland.

He said: "The creation of Media Scotland denotes the start of a dynamic new era in Scottish media. With our unique blend of national and local content, the combined reach of our portfolio of print and digital brands will deliver unrivalled coverage across the Scottish market. I look forward to working with our new top team in the exciting times ahead."

The company also announced that Daily Record and Sunday Mail editor-in-chief Bruce Waddell is leaving after eight years.

Mr Waddell said: "I've had eight great years at the helm of the Daily Record and Sunday Mail but it's time for change. I now look forward to a fresh challenge and exploring new opportunities."

The merger will also see two new appointments to management.

Allan Rennie becomes Media Scotland editor-in-chief. He was previously editorial development director for Trinity Mirror nationals.

Bill Steven, former managing director of Scottish and Universal Newspapers, is appointed business development director.

In June the company announced that approximately 90 editorial staff would be axed at the Daily Record and Sunday Mail. Around 70 people were reportedly made redundant over the summer.

Paul Holleran, Scottish organiser of the National Union of Journalists, said: "We are relieved there are no job cuts mentioned in the announcement and, as always, it is our position that they should be avoided in the future."

PA