Help us shape our future

It's not often in journalism that you get to make the news as well as report on it, but I am happy to confirm, in print, what many in the trade may have already deduced on the notorious drinks grapevine that Harpers has been bought by William Reed Business Media.

The Manchester United - or should that be Chelsea? - of the food and drink publishing sector is taking on the title, our directory and website, as part of its commitment to the drinks industry.

All businesses are currently going through enormous change. Publishing is not immune to such pressures and is arguably one of the fastest changing sectors around with the balance between traditional print and online media being played out from our national newspapers right through the publishing food chain.

But what is not changing - and is arguably even more acute - is the need for business- to business publishers to provide quality, must have information that is relevant to its readers. That commitment will continue, grow and develop with our new owners and their detailed understanding of this market.

As part of this deal we are looking to bring together the talent and editorial coverage not only of Harpers, but William Reed's monthly Wine & Spirit title. How we do that will be developed in the coming weeks, but we need your help, advice and guidance.

You are, after all, on the front line of the drinks industry and therefore uniquely placed to help shape the future of your trade title.

Wine, spirits and product knowledge is one thing, the key challenge for us all is sharing the business and commercial skills needed to keep competitive. That remains at the heart of everything we do.

The acquisition of Harpers by William Reed is a further step in its 130-year history and by joining the leading food and drink publisher we are excited by the opportunities - and the challenges - that lay ahead and look forward to providing you with the must have information you need to succeed in your business.

Richard Siddle is the editor of Harpers magazine.

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