BCA approves Rossel's acquisition of IPM press activities

The Belgian Competition Authority approved Rossel's acquisition of IPM Presse's publishing activities on 3 July 2026, subject to conditions. Rossel and IPM are both active in the French-language newspaper and magazine market. Following the acquisition, Rossel will have sole or joint control over all French-language printed daily newspapers in Belgium.

The commitments require that virtually all French-language daily newspaper titles be maintained. According to the Authority, Le Soir, La Libre, L'Avenir, and La DH/Les Sports will each retain their own identity, editorial charter, and safeguards for editorial independence. Content sharing between the titles will be limited, with the exception of sports coverage.

Update – 6 July: Rossel states that its merger with IPM currently has no impact on campaigns that are scheduled or running through the end of 2026. In the fourth quarter, Rossel Advertising will announce its new campaign processes for 2027, together with a range of new commercial offerings.