Berlingske - Comprehensive Analysis Report

Summary

Berlingske, founded in 1749 in Copenhagen, Denmark, is one of the world's oldest continuously operating newspapers and a cornerstone of Danish journalism. As the flagship brand of Berlingske Media A/S, its core mission is to act as a free and responsible press, delivering timely and reliable information to empower citizens and uphold democratic values, including diversity of thought, free speech, and private initiative. The institution has successfully transitioned from its historical print origins to embrace a "mobile-first" digital strategy, maintaining its relevance and influence by providing discerning readers with in-depth news, analysis, and opinion in an evolving media landscape. It plays a significant role in Danish media, adapting to modern consumption habits while preserving its journalistic integrity.

1. Strategic Focus & Objectives

Core Objectives

Berlingske's primary business objectives are firmly anchored in digital innovation and audience engagement. The company aims to set new standards for multimedia journalism through a continuous evolution of its content creation, marketing strategies, and technology development to meet the demands of a digital-first world. A key objective is to effectively engage and attract younger adults aged 18-30, who seek fast, accessible, and engaging content while still valuing authenticity and depth in their news consumption.

Specialization Areas

Berlingske specializes in providing in-depth news, comprehensive analysis, and independent commentary. It offers extensive coverage of both domestic and international affairs, featuring a significant daily business section that focuses on the financial and housing markets, the Danish business community, and global economic trends. The publication prioritizes causal analysis and data-driven reporting to offer rigorous insights to its readership.

Target Markets

The primary audience for Berlingske consists of affluent citizens in the Greater Copenhagen area, who are discerning readers seeking detailed news and analysis. Strategically, the company is also targeting younger adults aged 18-30 to expand its digital readership and ensure long-term relevance across demographics.

2. Financial Overview

Funding History

Berlingske Media operates on a business model driven by subscription services and advertising revenue. The company has a history of ownership changes, moving from family ownership to various media groups over its long lifespan. In February 2025, Berlingske Media was acquired by the Norwegian media group Amedia from the Belgian media house DPG Media, which had owned it since 2014. This acquisition was a strategic move to bolster digital innovation and foster Nordic synergies while preserving the brands' legacies.

Detailed breakdown of recent financial performance:

Berlingske Media reported revenues of MDKK 621 in 2024, a slight decrease from MDKK 635 in 2023. Despite a broader industry trend where advertisers are shifting spending from traditional news media to social media and search platforms, Berlingske Media successfully increased its EBITA before special items to MDKK 46.8 in 2024, up from MDKK 42.4 in 2023. This growth was primarily fueled by the continued expansion in digital circulation, highlighting the success of its digital transformation efforts.

3. Technology & Innovation

Technology Stack

Berlingske Media has a robust digital infrastructure supporting its "mobile-first" strategy and expanding digital subscription base. Its advanced tech stack includes Akamai for content delivery, Next.js for front-end development, Cloudflare Bot Management and Akamai Bot Manager for security, Amazon ALB for load balancing, Node.js for server-side operations, Webpack for asset bundling, and HSTS for secure connections.

Proprietary developments

A significant innovation is the launch of Trusted Web in October 2024, Denmark's largest commercial advertising platform, developed as a joint venture with Concept X. The company has also achieved proprietary advancements through its long-standing collaboration with Sii over the past decade, which has led to the development of real-time Liveblog features, successful CMS migrations, and the implementation of an Identity Management System to enhance user experiences across its platforms.

Technical capabilities

Berlingske Media utilizes advanced technical capabilities for operational efficiency and monetization. It employs Aria Systems for cloud billing and monetization and Dimaps Orchestra Logistics to streamline data flow and replace legacy ERP systems. These systems enhance operational efficiencies and enable advanced customer self-service capabilities, crucial for managing a modern digital media enterprise.

4. Leadership & Management

Executive Team

Anders Krab-Johansen - Group CEO and Publisher for Berlingske Media. He previously served as CEO and editor-in-chief at the daily Børsen.
Tom Jensen - Editor-in-Chief of Berlingske.
Pierre Collignon - Debate Editor at Berlingske since April 2018. He was previously a journalistic editor-in-chief at Jyllands-Posten until September 2016.
Anita Nijboer - Chairman of the Board for Berlingske Media, appointed on March 23, 2022.
* The executive team also includes key departmental leaders such as a Head of Customer Success, a Head of Development, a Head of Commercial Solutions, a Head of Audience & Commercial Development, and a Head of Operations, IT.

Recent Leadership Changes

In December 2024, Norwegian media group Amedia acquired Berlingske Media from the Belgian media group DPG Media. Following this acquisition, Anders Krab-Johansen continued in his role as CEO of Berlingske Media, ensuring leadership continuity. Earlier, on March 23, 2022, Anita Nijboer was elected as the new Chairman of the Board. In February 2016, Mette Maix was appointed CEO, succeeding Bjarne Munck who served as acting CEO and later assumed the role of COO during the transition. In May 2013, during the ownership period of Mecom, Rory Macnamara was appointed non-executive chairman, and Stephen Davidson became the new CEO of Mecom.

5. Talent and Growth Indicators

Hiring Trends and Workforce

As of February 2026, Berlingske Media has approximately 372 employees, with the majority based in Denmark within Europe. Other employee counts reported were 457 in 2024, 473 in 2023, and 494 in 2022. The company demonstrates active recruitment, with recent job postings in February 2026 for roles such as "B.T. søger chef for video" (B.T. seeks Head of Video), signaling a sustained focus on expanding digital content, particularly in multimedia journalism. General application opportunities also indicate interest in roles across administration, HR, IT, journalism, marketing, project management, sales, and finance.

Company growth trajectory indicators

Berlingske Media's strategic shift to a "mobile-first" approach and the increasing sales of digital subscriptions have driven positive growth. The company's EBITA growth in 2024, primarily from digital circulation, validates its digital strategy. Furthermore, B.T., one of Berlingske Media's key brands, reportedly improved significantly in traffic and increased revenue in 2025, reinforcing the company's overall positive growth trajectory in the digital realm.

6. Social Media Presence and Engagement

Digital Footprint

Berlingske maintains a robust and integrated digital footprint across its website, mobile platforms, and multimedia content. This strategy is designed to adapt to evolving reader needs and engage audiences effectively in a digital-first environment.

Brand messaging and positioning

The brand's messaging consistently emphasizes factual reporting, investigative journalism, and commentary. While upholding conservative values, Berlingske maintains a stance of political independence. The publication actively shares news, opinions, and in-depth analysis across its various platforms, fostering public discourse on current affairs. Its content range includes articles and