Johnston Press, the regional newspaper group, announced today it is to acquire eight Scottish newspapers from its rival Archant.

Johnston will pay £11.21m for three paid-for titles in the North East of the country and five free titles in the central region. The newspapers, which generated a combined turnover of £6.95m last year, will be incorporated into Johnston's existing Scottish division.

This is an attractive portfolio of weekly newspapers which fits well withour existing titles in their respective areas,” said Tim Bowdler, chief executive of Johnston Press. 

“We look forward to working with the Scottish Archant publishing team to build on an already successful business for the benefit of readers and advertisers in the local communities they serve.”

Johnston added that the deal is subject to regulatory approval.