Marketing Week: A History of the UK's Leading Marketing Publication
Since its inception in the late 1970s, Marketing Week has served as a cornerstone of the professional marketing community. From its beginnings as a controlled-circulation print magazine to its current status as a digital-first powerhouse, the publication has documented the evolution of the industry while maintaining a reputation for strategic insight and editorial excellence.
The Founding and Early Years
Marketing Week was launched in March 1978. The publication was the result of a partnership between Graham Sherren, Michael Chamberlain (a former editor of the advertising journal Campaign), and entrepreneur Anthony Nares. Nares had established Marketing Week Communications Ltd (MWC) shortly before the launch to provide the necessary infrastructure for the venture.
The launch was swift; after meeting in late 1977, the partners moved quickly to bring the first issue to market. The debut edition, dated March 10, 1978, was priced at 40p. It utilized a controlled circulation model, meaning it was distributed for free to a verified group of marketers, advertising professionals, and selected media personnel to ensure the content reached the most relevant audience.
Despite an attempt by Haymarket to compete with the launch of MarketFact, Marketing Week successfully captured the market. MWC later expanded its portfolio by launching Creative Review before being absorbed into Centaur Communications in 1982, a buy-in vehicle managed by Sherren and Jocelyn Stevens.
Growth and Commercial Success
By the 1990s, the publication had reached a peak of editorial and commercial influence. Under the leadership of editor Stuart Smith, the magazine became a massive production, with spring and autumn editions often exceeding 130 pages. This growth was fueled largely by a robust classified advertising section.
During this era, the editorial team grew to more than 20 journalists, and the publication achieved record-breaking profits, exceeding £6 million annually. For many years, Marketing Week was owned by the LSE-listed company Centaur Media plc.
The Digital Transition
As media consumption habits shifted, Marketing Week adapted its delivery model. While the print magazine maintained a primary circulation of 36,619 in 2009, the focus gradually shifted toward its digital presence. The website eventually grew to attract approximately 395,000 monthly unique users.
The transition occurred in stages: in March 2017, the publication moved from a weekly to a monthly print frequency. By October 2020, the print magazine was discontinued entirely, and all subscribers were migrated to online subscriptions.
In July 2019, the publication introduced a premium online subscription service. According to editor Russell Parsons, this service was designed to provide "subscriber exclusives" focusing on high-level strategic and leadership challenges within the marketing field.
Events and Corporate Evolution
Beyond publishing, Marketing Week expanded into live events, most notably through the Festival of Marketing held annually in London. In May 2019, the organization streamlined its event portfolio by incorporating Marketing Week Live and The Insight Show into the Festival of Marketing.
Corporate restructuring continued in January 2019, when Centaur Media placed Marketing Week within a rebranded marketing division known as Xeim. However, a major ownership change occurred in September 2025, when Haymarket Media Group acquired Marketing Week, the Festival of Marketing, and Creative Review from Centaur Media for £3.9 million in cash.
Key Facts
- Launched: March 10, 1978.
- Founders: Graham Sherren, Michael Chamberlain, and Anthony Nares.
- Peak Print Era: 1990s, with profits exceeding £6m per year and 20+ journalists.
- Digital Shift: Print discontinued in October 2020 in favor of online subscriptions.
- Current Owner: Haymarket Media Group (acquired September 2025 for £3.9m).
- Key Events: Organizes the annual Festival of Marketing in London.
| Editor | Tenure |
|---|---|
| Michael Chamberlain | First Editor (1978) |
| Stephen Foster | 1980–1983 |
| Howard Sharman | 1983–1988 |
| Stuart Smith | 1988–2008 |
| Mark Choueke | 2009–2012 |
| Ruth Mortimer | 2012–2014 |
| Russell Parsons | 2014–Present |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded Marketing Week?
The publication was co-founded by Graham Sherren, Michael Chamberlain, and Anthony Nares, with the first issue appearing in March 1978.
When did Marketing Week stop printing its magazine?
The print edition was officially discontinued in October 2020, shifting all subscribers to a digital-only model.
What is the Festival of Marketing?
It is an annual event held in London associated with Marketing Week. In 2019, it expanded to include Marketing Week Live and The Insight Show.
Who currently owns Marketing Week?
As of September 2025, Marketing Week is owned by Haymarket Media Group, which purchased it from Centaur Media for £3.9 million.
Who has been the longest-serving editor?
Stuart Smith was the longest-serving editor, leading the publication from 1988 until 2008.