Cyclist and Cycling Electric acquired by London publisher Metropolis

Cyclist and sister title Cycling Electric have been acquired by London Publishing House Metropolis, which has also secured the assets of Fortean Times and VIZ from a holding group.

Metropolis is largely a B2B publisher, hosting titles such as MotorTrader, New Civil Engineer, Property Week, Drapers and Money Marketing, among many others. Its consumer titles are limited to just four in the portfolio, most notably Record Collector and What Mortgage.

Robert Marr, Chief Executive of Metropolis Group, said: “The acquisition continues the development of Metropolis and our vision of creating sustainable long-term futures for great media brands. We look forward to working together with the three teams to further develop these brands in our Diamond niche consumer media business.”

Dharmesh Mistry, MD Specialist Titles at Broadleaf, commented: “Publishing these iconic lifestyle brands over two decades has been a thrilling ride and a genuine pleasure. We’re pleased to have found in Metropolis suitable custodians for the next stage of their journey.”

Metropolis has gown its portfolio both organically and via acquisition, leading it to now employ over 400 staff across 40 brands.

The remainder of Dennis Publishing, which was formerly the parent to Cyclist, was acquired in a much larger deal with FTSE-listed Future Publishing in August of this year following a long period on sale.