Heralding a significant realignment in the consumer MI magazine market, Oyster House Media, publishers of Bass Guitar Magazine and Acoustic Magazine, have purchased Guitar Buyer and Drummer magazines from Graham Butterworth's Davenport Publishing.
"We are very excited about the acquisition of these two leading titles as it strengthens our portfolio considerably and affords us a superb cross-section of magazines dedicated to every genre and musical discipline," said Oyster House's publisher and managing director, Hugo Mongomery-Swan.
"Whether it be bass, drums, acoustic or electric guitar or singer-songwriter, our comprehensive portfolio now offers a magazine for every member of a band. In so doing, it propels our operation into a unique position that we intend to capitalise on for the benefit of our readers and advertisers alike. Negotiations with Davenport Publishing began back at the time of LIMS this June and since that time we have moved swiftly and without complication to conclude a deal that both parties are very happy with.
Former owner of the titles and long time MI industry figure, Graham Butterworth, said: "I am delighted to have concluded the sale with Oyster House Media. The company is a genuine family concern with great vision and passion for the subjects and markets these titles cover. Hugo is also a respected musician himself and therefore comes at music magazine publishing from a different angle to others in the market and I believe this shows in the products OHM produce.
"Since I have gained an insight into their business development plan, I can say that the future looks very exciting indeed for the new OHM portfolio. It's good news for the industry that an independent publisher is making such great strides amidst these challenging times, working to offer a genuine alternative for music lovers and MI alike, amidst a market which up until now, has been dominated by the big corporate publishing houses."
The move strengthens Oyster House's position in the MI market and follows a major expansion at their Devon headquarters and the successful transition of Acoustic and Bass Guitar magazines to monthly publication. Montgomery-Swan says the acquisition will give Oyster greater bargaining strength in the news trade and offer a better deal for advertisers. The two former Davenport titles will remain based in Cambridgeshire for the time being and no staff changes are planned.
Observers suggest the newly consolidated group will offer stronger competition to rivals Future Publishing at a time when consumer magazine sales have been under pressure and advertising budgets are stretched.
Oyster House: 01884 266100
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