On Friday 6th June 2025, Reach proudly welcomed IAB UK to the iconic Manchester Evening News HQ to launch the Powering Up 2025 Report – uniting industry trailblazers, policymakers and media pros to shine a spotlight on the economic power of digital advertising beyond the capital.

The event, held in collaboration with IAB UK, showcased how brands of all sizes can leverage digital innovation to reach customers across the UK – while reinforcing the enduring value of trusted local journalism in the media mix.

We were honoured to welcome The Rt Hon Lucy Powell MP, Shadow Leader of the House of Commons and MP for Manchester Central, who joined Sarah Lester, Editor of the Manchester Evening News, and Sinead Coogan Jobes, Head of Policy & Public Affairs at IAB UK, for an engaging afternoon of conversation and insight.

Following the panel discussion, Lucy Powell MP was given a private tour of our state-of-the-art print facility, responsible for producing and distributing millions of newspapers each week across the UK. The visit served as a powerful reminder of the continuing importance of regional media, both as an employer and a platform for community connection.

Sarah Lester, Editor of the Manchester Evening News, spoke passionately about the central role of trusted local journalism:

“Local newsrooms aren’t just reporting on their communities – they’re part of them. Trusted journalism strengthens democracy, informs the public, and brings people together. Events like this are vital to showing how local media is powering up for the future.”

Nigel Black, Head of Product Marketing at Reach, added:

“We’re proud to have hosted the IAB UK and all our VIP guests to the home of our Manchester Evening News. At a time when attention is fragmented and trust is critical, we’re helping advertisers connect meaningfully with real people through quality journalism.”

The IAB’s Powering Up report is now available to download at iabuk.com/poweringup