Commission approves EUR 107.5 million aid scheme for the distribution of printed press in France
The Commission has approved a EUR 107.5 million French scheme to support the distribution of printed press through a network of national distributors, wholesalers and retailers.
The measure aims to encourage publishers to use pooled distribution systems in order to reduce costs and maintain a balanced territorial press distribution network across the country. By supporting the circulation of newspapers and periodicals, the scheme seeks to ensure citizens’ access to reliable and high-quality information while promoting media pluralism, democratic debate and cultural diversity.
The aid will take the form of direct grants available to press publishers using a single-copy distribution network. It will cover up to 40% of the distribution costs of national daily and weekly newspapers of political and general interest, as well as certain sports periodicals. The scheme will run until 31 December 2030.
The Commission assessed the measure under Article 107(3)(c) of the TFEUand concluded that the scheme is necessary, appropriate and proportionate, with a limited impact on competition and trade within the EU.
For more information, see Commission’s PR.