After a period of uncertainty the future of The Shetland Times has been secured.
Highland News and Media, a family-owned business which publishes local newsbrands across the North of Scotland such as the Inverness Courier and John O’Groat Journal, has purchased The Shetland Times newspaper business. This secures not only the future of the title but also the employment of seven journalists and advertising staff.
Highland News and Media Managing Director Steve Barron said, “The Shetland Times is an excellent local newspaper which passionately represents and champions the community it serves – credit to long-term owners Robert and June Wishart who have clearly been committed to local journalism and the Shetland community. These values are closely aligned with our own. The method of consumption may be changing but local news is as important as ever. By supporting our new colleagues in Shetland, and adding our experience around digital transformation, we’ll make sure that their valuable work continues. Our team is excited to add a well-respected and cherished local newspaper title to our portfolio.”
Over the coming weeks readers will notice a number of small changes to the newspaper, all of which will allow for continued investment in local journalism. From next week the paper will be full colour and change to a more compact size.
Mr Barron added, “As we integrate new publishing systems there will be some small changes to the style and layout of the paper. What will never change is our commitment to delivering impactful and important journalism for the people of Shetland.”
The change of ownership ends a 131-year family connection with the newspaper. Robert Wishart said,“A few weeks ago I feared that not only our family ties to the paper but the newspaper itself was finished. I’m delighted that Highland News and Media have raced to ensure continuity of publishing. It’s quite an achievement and gives the paper a new lease of life.”
Reaching this agreement ensures that The Shetland Times remains independently owned and committed to campaigning, community journalism.