The home interest sector overall had a weak set of results. Some commentators contend that this is driven by the lack of activity in the housing market, with fewer people looking for inspiration on how to make their mark on their new home. Home interest publishers have argued in previous downturns that a weak housing market leads more people to make improvements to their existing properties and that they still seek the guidance of interior magazines. This has not been the case in this housing recession.
Ideal Home remains the market leader at 194,633 despite its circulation slump of -12% year on year. Country Living is in second place with sales of 192,475, with a small 1.7% increase period on period but decreasing -3.5% year on year. The worst affected by the downturn was BBC Homes and Antiques, recording a substantial drop of -36.5%. At the premium end of the market, titles fared little better. House & Garden and World of Interiors both recorded falls of over 8% and Homes & Gardens was little better with a drop of over 6%
