IMA members agree to collectively bargain with Big Tech

IMA members have agreed to form a coalition with other media associations to collectively negotiate with Big Tech under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024.

The Digital Markets, Competition, and Consumers Act 2024 is a UK law designed to regulate powerful digital companies and ensure fair competition. It introduces new rules for large tech firms and strengthens consumer protections.

A key aspect of the Act is the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) can designate large digital firms (e.g., Google, Meta) as having Strategic Market Status (SMS) if they hold significant market power. SMS firms face tougher rules to prevent them from unfairly dominating markets.

The Act explicitly allows smaller businesses, including news publishers, to form coalitions to negotiate better terms with SMS firms. This means publishers can work together to push for fairer payments and treatment from platforms like Google and Meta.

At IMA’s general meeting on Tuesday, 8 April, all 33 members present unanimously approved the IMA’s strategy for creating a coalition and a timeline for the coming months. 

The prospective coalition includes four major publishing trade associations, including the IMA itself.

A formal coalition agreement is expected to be in place soon.

Members voiced strong support for ensuring that any funds negotiated are shared equally, so all members benefit and can even work full-time on their publications. They also stressed measuring real value beyond just reach and clicks. They urged a focus on original content, unique stories, and the social impact on communities. 

If you would like to interview a spokesperson for the IMA, please contact Thomas Barlow at thomas@ima.press.