The positive result comes despite a slight dip in revenue from £161.4m to £153.8m.

Founded in 1905, DC Thomson attributed the revenue decrease to the closure of several ventures, including Bunkered Golf Breaks and Pure Radio, alongside some magazine titles. The company also reduced its workforce from 1,603 to 1,314 employees.   

The publisher highlighted the challenging economic climate impacting consumer spending but emphasised its commitment to efficiency through staff changes, training, and the adoption of new technologies like artificial intelligence. However, it stressed that these measures would not compromise its dedication to quality journalism and content.

Newsstand revenue fell by 3% to £51.6m, while subscriptions grew by 2% to £40.6m, and advertising revenue dipped by 1% to £17m.

DC Thomson’s board reaffirmed its strategy, saying: “Our strategy is unchanged as we focus on offering value to our customers. Our portfolio of digital products continues to grow alongside digital subscriptions.

“In print, the sectoral decline continues but we maintain a resilient print income, balancing customer value with price increases supported by a strong home delivery service in our local community.

“We have long years of history and tradition as being valued by the communities we operate in.”