National newspapers of Ireland circulation figures published

Circulation figures for the Irish Independent at almost 165,500 for the six month period to December 1999 have reached a 15 year high, reinforcing that publication's position as the leading quality daily broadsheet title in Ireland, some 50,000 copies ahead of its nearest rival. The latest figures published by the National Newspapers of Ireland (pending final ABC certification) also reveal that the Sunday Independent has increased its circulation by more than 2.25% to 317, 600 copies, and that the Evening Herald with a circulation of 105,386 remains Dublin's best selling daily publication.

Commenting on the figures, Barry Brennan, Group Marketing Director, Independent News & Media said: " We are extremely pleased that despite increased competition from indigenous titles and UK imports we have recorded circulation increases across the board for our Middle Abbey Street titles. The Irish Independent has reinforced its position as Ireland's leading quality daily, selling more than 50,000 copies over its nearest rival and in so doing achieving a 15-year circulation high.

"The Sunday Independent has recorded a circulation increase of more than 7,000 copies despite the presence of 15 competing Sunday newspapers on the shelf each Sunday. Significantly, circulation of the Sunday Independent is now greater than the sum of all competing titles in the Sunday quality market.

"Circulation at the Evening Herald has also increased by almost 2,000 copies and it remains the best selling publication on the streets of Dublin each day".

Circulation figures are published by the National Newspapers of Ireland (NNI) pending certification from the Audit Bureau of Certification.

Ends. Thursday, 10th February 2000 For Reference: Pat Walsh
Murray Consultant Ltd Tel: 01 - 663 3318

Barry Brennan 
Group Marketing Director, Independent News & Media 

Tel: 01 - 705 5801