Ringier follows Edipresse follows Ringier

Expansions The paths of the two publishers cross conspicuously often. "Our 5.4 percent increase in turnover in Switzerland is largely due to our acquisitions," said Ringier CEO Martin Werfeli at his Group's annual press conference. In other words: without the Bolero purchase and the acquisition of Le Temps, the Swiss publishing house would probably only have reported stable figures at best. At Edipresse, Ringier's partner in Le Temps, the positive effects of the joint venture were less apparent: its Swiss business generated 4.7 percent less turnover (see page 21).But it is not only at Le Temps that the two groups are crossing paths, they will also do so in the TV sector: Ringier TV has increased by 26 percent, Edipresse wants to learn to ride this golden donkey.
There are also similarities in Eastern Europe: both companies are active in Romania. And while Edipresse has been active in the Ukraine since 2000, Ringier is now also looking there, according to Werfeli - after the political change there anyway. Edipresse is also ahead of its Le Temps partner in Poland and Russia, while Ringier is ahead in the Czech Republic, Hungary and Serbia. "And if you're active in Serbia, Croatia is naturally close," says Werfeli.
Whether Edipresse will follow him there remains to be seen, but the French-speaking Swiss have announced expansion into new markets - including Latin America and Asia. How fortuitous: Ringier already has some experience in the latter continent. Werfeli is hoping for a change of leadership in Vietnam, for example, "which will enable more entrepreneurship".
(mk)