UK online publishers double turnover

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UK digital publishers increased their turnover in 2006 by an average of 60 per cent and are predicting 72 per cent growth for 2007, a survey has revealed.

In a survey of its UK members, The Association of Online Publishers (AOP) Census 2007 found that online revenue now accounts for an average of 12 per cent of total income.

Total turnover for their digital operations increased to £575 million, up from £344 million the previous year. Advertising accounts for 75 per cent of online revenue, made up of: display advertising and sponsorship (59 per cent); classifieds (16 per cent); and paid-for content including syndication (12 per cent) - an increase of 50 per cent on 2006.

Simon Waldman, AOP chairman and group director of digital strategy, Guardian Media Group, said: "This is a remarkable set of figures. 2006 was a year of spectacular digital growth, innovation and investment by the UK's media industry - and our forecasts show there is no sign of this letting up."

Forty-six per cent of AOP members charge for content, up from 37 per cent in 2006, and they employ nearly 8,000 people in their digital businesses, with 540 new jobs created in the last year.

Broadband, mobile (and wireless) and communities are seen as the biggest opportunities for the industry in 2007, while the biggest threats are new competitors, security, and government/legal restrictions.