Report Reveals Major Newspapers’ Non-Print Revenue Expected to Surge by 12%, Outpacing 3% Growth in Core Print Business

Revenue from non-print businesses for major newspapers is projected to increase by up to 12% between FY25-FY27, while core print revenues are expected to grow at a much slower rate of 2-3%. This shift reflects the declining readership of print media; circulation has decreased from 1.5 crore in 2019 to an estimated 1 crore in 2025, with ongoing trends suggesting further declines as younger audiences favor digital platforms. The analysis by Crisil Ratings emphasizes that diversification beyond print is now essential for the survival of large newspaper groups, which are adapting their business models to maintain relevancy and uphold credit quality.

This transition to non-print revenue streams is significant for the common citizen and the broader market. For individuals, it could mean increased access to diverse content formats, including digital news and events. The ability of newspapers to bundle services—integrating print, digital, radio, and outdoor advertising—may enhance the advertising landscape and improve consumer engagement. However, the shift towards non-print revenues suggests that consumers will increasingly rely on digital platforms for news, potentially leading to a decline in the traditional print newspaper experience. Consequently, the market could witness consolidation, as some players might struggle to adapt to these changes.

Looking ahead, the long-term outlook for the newspaper industry remains contingent on successfully managing this transition. The government or RBI may not have direct interventions in this sector; however, a focus on digital literacy and infrastructure improvements could support the overall media landscape. The resilience of large publishers, buoyed by conservative capital structures and liquid investments, positions them favorably to withstand the volatile shift in revenue sources. Moving forward, stakeholders will need to closely monitor circulation trends, the evolution of digital monetization strategies, and the scalability of non-print ventures to gauge the sustainability of revenue growth within this sector.

Source: The Hindu

(Expert Note: This report was independently prepared by the Wealthova Economy team.)