BBC Worldwide Press Releases

BBC Magazines has found a buyer for its consumer lifestyle title BBC Good Homes Magazine, it announced today, 18th May 2009. Kelsey Publishing Ltd, Kent-based publishers of a portfolio of consumer lifestyle magazines and books, today signed a contract to publish the title from the August 2009 edition.

Under its new owners the title will no longer carry any BBC branding and will be entirely independent of the BBC. Under 'TUPE' rules, Good Homes staff will transfer with the magazine to Kelsey Publishing.*

Peter Phippen, MD of BBC Magazines, said: "Good Homes Magazine is a trusted, quality magazine and it was with great regret that BBC Magazines announced its proposal to close the title last month. We are therefore delighted that following discussions with a number of interested parties, we have found an ideal buyer in Kelsey Publishing. I am confident that this family business will be able to develop the magazine beyond its current remit and I wish them every success."

Steve Wright, Managing Director of Kelsey Publishing commented: "We are delighted to be able to announce the acquisition of this title. Good Homes Magazine has an outstanding reputation within the industry and we look forward to incorporating it into our business."

NOTES TO EDITORS
BBC Good Homes Magazine launched in May 1998. Its ABC for June-December 2008 was 97,725.

Kelsey Publishing Ltd., established in 1989, has a portfolio of 26 magazines and over 70 books in three key areas: consumer lifestyle, motoring and rural interests. For more details please go to www.kelsey.co.uk

* TUPE, The Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations, preserve employees' terms and conditions when a business or undertaking, or part of one, is transferred to a new employer.

Sarah Williams

NB The BBC is not responsible for the content of external websites