Media Times Limited
Media Times Limited is a media company based in Pakistan, primarily engaged in print media and broadcasting. The company was established as a private limited entity on June 26, 2001, and was later converted into a public limited company on March 6, 2007. It is listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) under the ticker symbol MDTL. The registered office of the company is located at 41-N, Industrial Area, Gulberg II, Lahore.
Business Activities
Print Media
The company publishes and prints two major newspapers:
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Daily Times – An English-language daily newspaper that covers national and international news, political developments, and economic issues.
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Aaj Kal – A prominent Urdu-language daily newspaper that provides a mix of national, regional, and international news along with political and social commentary.
These newspapers are distributed across major cities in Pakistan, including Lahore, Islamabad, and Karachi. Through these publications, Media Times Limited plays a significant role in Pakistan’s media landscape.
Broadcasting and Television Production
In addition to its print media activities, Media Times Limited has expanded into broadcasting. The company owns and operates two satellite television channels:
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Business Plus – A channel that focuses on business news, economic analysis, and discussions on trade and industry.
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Zaika (formerly Wicked Plus) – A lifestyle and food-oriented television channel offering cooking shows, food-related content, and other entertainment programs.
The company produces and broadcasts television programs, documentaries, and films for these channels, thereby diversifying its media operations from print to electronic media.
Recent Developments
Outsourcing of Zaika TV License
In a significant move to streamline operations, Media Times Limited outsourced the license for Zaika TV after December 31, 2017, on a fixed monthly rent basis for a term of 20 years. This decision was part of the company's strategy to manage its resources more efficiently and ensure long-term financial stability by reducing operational burdens related to running the channel independently.
The move to outsource the license was seen as a step towards focusing on its core business of print media and selective broadcasting while maintaining a stake in its television operations through the outsourcing agreement.
Corporate Governance and Strategy
Leadership
The company’s leadership includes:
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Shehryar Ali Taseer – Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
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Aamna Taseer – Chairperson
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Shahzad Jawahar – Company Secretary
Under their leadership, Media Times Limited has focused on maintaining a balance between its print media presence and its growing role in broadcasting. The company has pursued a strategic approach that involves both diversification of its media portfolio and efforts to remain competitive in an increasingly digital media environment.
Business Strategy
The company's long-term strategy involves expanding its media footprint by enhancing the reach of its newspapers and television channels. Media Times Limited has continuously invested in content production for both its print and broadcast platforms to stay relevant in the rapidly changing media landscape of Pakistan. The company has also been exploring strategic partnerships and mergers, including considering opportunities in the real estate sector as part of its diversification plans (Profit, Pakistan Today).
Financial Performance
For the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, the company reported significant revenue from its print and broadcast divisions. However, like many media organizations, Media Times Limited has faced challenges related to the declining advertisement revenues in the traditional print media sector. In recent years, there has been a notable shift toward digital content and online platforms, which has impacted traditional media companies. Despite these challenges, Media Times Limited has maintained a solid presence in the market (PSX).
Corporate Social Responsibility
Media Times Limited is also involved in various corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities. These initiatives focus on promoting literacy, education, and social welfare in Pakistan. The company has been actively participating in community development programs, including sponsoring events related to educational advancements and promoting cultural exchange. These efforts align with the company's broader goals of contributing to the social and economic development of Pakistan.
Conclusion
Media Times Limited has established itself as a key player in Pakistan’s media industry, with a strong presence in both print and electronic media. The company has expanded its operations from publishing daily newspapers to producing and broadcasting television content. Despite facing challenges in the traditional media sector, the company has shown resilience and adaptability by venturing into new business areas and adopting strategic initiatives aimed at long-term growth. Its diversification into broadcasting and outsourcing agreements demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to business operations.
The company's continued success will depend on its ability to navigate the challenges of the evolving media landscape while maintaining its commitment to delivering quality content across its platforms.
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