Media Ownership

Who owns UK newspapers, broadcasters, radio groups, music catalogues and online publishers — the parent companies and controlling shareholders behind the mastheads and channels.

Who owns UK media brands?

Media ownership is concentrated, and the brand almost never matches the owner. A national title, its website and its sister papers typically sit inside one publishing group, which may itself be owned by a family trust, an overseas group or an investment fund.

Publishers, broadcasters and platforms

Different parts of the sector work differently. Newspapers are usually held by publishing groups. Broadcasters hold licences that are themselves regulated. Radio has consolidated into a small number of groups operating many local brands under national ones. Music rights split between recordings and compositions, with different owners for each.

Parent companies and major shareholders

Profiles name the publishing or broadcasting entity, its parent, and the ultimate controlling party. For listed media groups with no controlling shareholder we say so, and list substantial holdings rather than inventing an owner.

Popular media ownership profiles

The most-searched media profiles appear below.

Ownership changes and consolidation

Media ownership changes frequently, and large transfers can attract a public interest test on plurality grounds — meaning a deal can be agreed and still not complete. Profiles distinguish agreed, completed and blocked transactions.

Browse media ownership profiles

Profiles cover national and regional press, television, radio, music and online publishers.