The agreement, announced by the Kembrey Park-headquartered company, extends and expands its existing partnership with News UK, publisher of The Sun, The Times and The Sunday Times.
Under the deal, which runs until 2037, Smiths News will take responsibility for distributing the titles nationwide from July 2027.
The company said the contract is expected to generate an additional £125 million in annual revenue and marks a significant expansion of its role within the UK’s newspaper supply chain.
The agreement will create a national distribution network covering the whole of Great Britain, building on Smiths News’ existing position as News UK’s exclusive wholesale distributor in several regions.
Jonathan Bunting, Chief Executive Officer of Smiths News, said:
“We are delighted to announce the extension and expansion of our partnership with News UK through to 2037.
“This deepens a relationship spanning more than 50 years, securing a reliable and sustainable national route to market for retailers and consumers, and enabling us to freeze delivery service charges for our retail customers for the life of the contract.
“Smiths News has a long and distinguished record in print distribution and industry-leading service. Today’s announcement marks a significant milestone in securing a sustainable future for print news distribution, and reflects our shared commitment to supporting the industry for years to come.”
Smiths News currently supplies newspapers and magazines to more than 22,000 retailers across England and Wales through its early-morning distribution network.
To support the expanded operation, the company plans to invest in its infrastructure and establish a larger national footprint before the contract begins in July 2027.
Implementation costs are expected during 2027, with the enlarged operation anticipated to contribute to earnings growth from 2028 onwards.
The contract represents a significant boost for one of Swindon’s largest employers and reinforces the town’s position as an important hub within Britain’s media distribution network.
Smiths News said further details on the financial impact of the agreement are expected to be provided when it publishes its annual results later this year.
