QMS Media digital expansion behind stronger first half result

QMS Media has reported its financial results for the six months to 31 December 2017 (H1 FY18).

The financial highlights included:

• Revenue up 25% to $99.0 million
• Digital revenue represents 66% of total media revenue
• Underlying EBITDA up 27% to $22.7 million
• Statutory NPAT up 11% to $8.3 million

Commenting on the results, QMS group chief executive officer Barclay Nettlefold said: “This is a pleasing result, which has been driven by our continued focus on premium quality landmark digital expansion in strategic markets. Our landmark digital development rollout has strong momentum, with 24 new billboards switched on during the half. As a result, we have updated our full year development target to over 112 sites to be operational by the end of June 2018. Our smaller-format digital presence is an important complement to our landmark network, and we are continuing to invest in strategic expansion to support integrated campaigns across multiple formats.”

Barclay Nettlefold

“Developing our digital and data capabilities remains an ongoing area of focus. Our DataLab is enabling us to better understand our audiences, and deliver more targeted and valuable campaigns for advertisers, and our investment in Digital Commons provides the capability to expand online and mobile media audience buying into outdoor media.”

The company commented strong earnings and revenue growth was driven by continued landmark digital development and the contribution from the QMS Sport acquisitions.

QMS Sport has continued to expand its portfolio of sports media rights with the renewal of a three-year signage services agreement with the FFA. Following period end, the business announced a strategic alliance with Techfront Australia, providing exclusive sales media rights for the National Rugby League (NRL). QMS Sport has now secured a strong platform of rights to leading codes, and has positive momentum going into the second half.