The Future of Media, Explained - from Press Gazette Reach versus Newsquest, publishers versus AI and the break-up of Google
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Sep 10, 2025 This discussion dives into the significant job cuts at Reach and its strategy to centralize news content while navigating AI challenges. The hosts contrast Reach's approach with Newsquest's local-first focus and innovative use of AI. They explore the implications of Google's breakup over its adtech dominance and examine the skepticism from publishers regarding AI-generated content. Finally, they ponder whether trusted, paywalled journalism could find renewed value as AI disrupts the publishing landscape.
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Reach's Big Centralisation Bet
- Reach plans a large reorganisation that centralises reporting and creates a live news network to reduce duplication.
- The restructure aims to cut roles while creating specialist units and supporting future subscription products.
Newsquest Doubles Down On Local
- Newsquest focuses on local journalism and has progressed further with paid digital subscriptions than Reach.
- They use AI-assisted reporters to draft press-release based copy and free journalists for higher-value work.
EU Targets Google's Adtech Monopoly
- EU antitrust action targets Google's dominance in ad tech and forces remedies beyond search rulings.
- The Commission may require Google to change or divest ad platforms to restore competition in publishing ad markets.