Central Media Group understands that change is inevitable in order to remain a sustainable publisher in terms of quality and efficiency. The company’s dominant domestic market position allows for the economic stability necessary for it to embark on a path of growth. The long-term goal is to develop new business models beyond traditional digital and print publishing, that do not solely rely on conventional advertising revenues. This strategic thinking led to the launch of its own creative and production agency, Central Content, as well as the launch of Refresher Hungary. The company also plans further product development for 24.hu, while placing increasing emphasis on its previously successful event business.
“Our previous corporate structure provided a certain level of internal stability, but we are fully aware that in 2024, integration and brand focus are indispensable. We no longer want to view our strong print brands as mere printed publications; digital product development is also essential in these cases. We believe that continuous growth and the introduction of new business models will ensure we remain an efficient media company and can strengthen our international presence,” said Róbert Vági, Deputy CEO of Central Media Group.
Deputy CEO, Central Médiacsoport
The company aims to play a key role as a content provider not only in Hungary but also across the CEE region, with plans for further acquisitions and the international market entry of brands already well-established in the Hungarian market.
Thanks to the company’s publishing ambitions, it already has a presence in several V4 countries. Central Media Group acquired a stake in Poland’s Gremi Media and owns a share in Slovakia’s
Refresher brand, which has also been successfully launched in the Hungarian market. Negotiations are underway for the regional debut of several other well-known Hungarian brands.
As part of the transformation, Petr Bednar will join the company as of July 1, bringing his experience from the more digitally advanced Czech market to assist Central Media Group as Chief Digital and Business Development Officer. Bednar will be a member of the Board of Directors, reporting directly to the Deputy CEO. He will oversee the entire print and online content production, as well as product development. Over his 23-year career, Bednar has held numerous leadership positions and is credited with building the digital portfolio of Czech companies such as Ringier and the previously print-focused Mladá Fronta. For the past eight years, Bednar has worked as a member of the board and Chief Digital Officer at one of the Czech Republic’s largest publishers, responsible for digital business development. In his new position at Central, his tasks will include creating new revenue models, exploring and applying AI opportunities, introducing data-driven operations, and managing, developing, and modernizing the existing print and online portfolios.
As part of the organizational transformation focused on print and online integration, Tímea Lipták’s role will also change. The previously print-heavy division will now include major digital brands such as nlc, Házipatika, and Krémmánia. Lipták will continue her work at the company as Director of the Women’s Digital and Magazine Division. The roles and positions of the digital portfolio directors will remain unchanged.
Central Media Group is working with Financial Times Strategies as a consultant to create a modern corporate structure capable of developing new revenue streams. Financial Times Strategies, a subsidiary of the British business daily Financial Times, uses its international expertise to create a wide range of media companies globally.
