Archant, which publishes the Cheshire, Yorkshire and Lancashire Life magazines, has put itself up for sale as it attempts to plug a funding deficit exacerbated by Covid-19.
The family-owned publisher, which was established in 1845, has appointed KPMG to find new backers.
In an email sent to staff at the weekend, Executive Chairman Simon Bax said: “The transformational strategy my leadership team and I have implemented over the past year has enabled our organisation to move forward with much needed clarity and focus.
“Obviously Covid-19 has been a considerable setback, but each and every day we are beginning to see the momentum return.
“Every organisation on a long term transformational journey such as ours requires long-term commitment and investment which is why we are currently talking informally with potential new investors who share our passion and energy in building a strong, robust future for Archant.”
Archant is headquartered in Norwich and employs about 1,100 people. It publishes around 60 newspaper brands as well as 75 magazine brands, including Cheshire, Yorkshire and Lancashire Life and their sister ‘Bride’ titles.
