How to set up newspaper and magazine deliveries

Get your papers and magazines sorted

To sell newspapers and magazines, you must register with a news wholesaler. In the UK, this market is handled by two main companies: Smiths News and Menzies Distribution. Your shop's postcode will determine which one covers your area, so the first step is to visit their websites, find the new retailer section, and complete an application form.

What the process involves

The application is typically an online form where you will need to provide your official business details, such as your company name, trading address, and contact information. The wholesaler will use this to perform credit checks and assess your application before approving you for an account.

Tip: Have your business bank account details and proof of address handy before you start. This will help make the application process much smoother.

What happens next

Once your account is approved, a representative will get in touch to finalise your delivery schedule and help you place your first orders. They will explain how to manage your stock and how the returns process works for unsold copies. This system, often called 'sale or return', is standard in the industry and means you won’t be left out of pocket for publications that don't sell.