Johnston Press plc is one of the top 3 largest local newspaper publishers in the UK, and a major force on the Internet. Johnston Press now operates in more than 200 markets up and down the UK and Ireland. Each area is unique, which is why every newspaper and website is tailored to its market.

Johnston Press was first established in Falkirk in 1767 as F. Johnston & Co Ltd.

The modern Johnston Press includes many titles that have been around for more than 200 years, with the Stamford Mercury celebrating its 310th birthday in 2006.

The group has grown by founding or buying individual local newspapers and newspaper groups – including The Scotsman in early 2006.

In 1988, F. Johnston & Co Ltd became a listed company on the London Stock Exchange and changed its name to Johnston Press plc.