Sterling Publishing has acquired the My Business brand and suite of products, the leading title for Australia’s 2.1 million business owners.
Created more than 24 years ago, it is the guiding light for Australia’s SMEs and serves as an advocate for this passionate and dynamic sector of the Australian economy.
According to Alex Whitlock, Sterling’s group publisher, the acquisition represents the culmination of the strategic plan to enter the SME market with a view to expand Sterling’s reach while strengthening its current suite of vertical professional markets.
“The My Business brand is deeply rooted in Australia’s SME community and is the trusted source for intelligence, inspiration and motivation for business owners.
“Running an SME requires dedication and passion; it can be immensely satisfying, however also challenging and emotionally taxing. For nearly a quarter of a century My Business has been the SME’s champion and we look forward driving the development of the brand in the years ahead."
Sterling acquired the brand from SME Media.
The acquisition includes all assets related to the My Business brand, including the print magazine, website, email bulletins, social media and the highly successful My Business Awards – of which Optus is the principal partner.
Mr Whitlock said that Sterling will grow the brand organically while also introducing it to the 400,000-plus Australian SMEs connected to the Sterling network.
“We’ve got pedigree publishing for business markets. We know what makes SMEs tick; we understand their frustrations and ambitions and we’re committed to growing Australia’s SME community via the My Business brand,” he said.
Sterling has been voted Australia’s Best Business Publisher for two years running by the Publish Awards, the premier awards program, and offers a solid platform to expand the brand.
Trevor Folsom, director of SME Media, said My Business will thrive under Sterling’s ownership.
“Sterling is the ideal new custodian of My Business and has the capacity, networks and talent to develop the product and deliver value to partners, stakeholders and readers,” he said.