An American property tycoon has singled out two Scottish dailies for praise in giving his backing to a new campaign highlighting the importance of news brands.

Donald Trump mentioned Aberdeen titles The Press and Journal, and the Evening Express in offering his backing to the Scottish Newspaper Society’s venture, which has been launched to mark 100 years since it predecessor, the Scottish Daily Newspaper Society, was founded.

Trump, who owns a golf resort on the east coast of Scotland, admitted he has had his “battles” with the local press and seen his fair share of “tough headlines.”

But he has become one of 66 businesspeople and organisation to put their name to the SNS campaign, highlighting the role of the newspaper industry in aiding them with their commercial success and its contribution to the economy.

Trump, pictured above, said: “I’ve had my battles with the Scottish press and seen my fair share of tough headlines.  But the impact of advertising in the Scottish media – particularly the Press and Journal and Evening Express – can’t be underestimated.

“When we advertise my five-star hotel (MacLeod House and Lodge), restaurant and the world’s finest golf course in Aberdeenshire, people respond immediately. It’s a totally efficient and effective way to gain business.”

SNS director John McLellan said: “Newspapers understand their readers who in turn place a great amount of trust in our publications to reflect their values and act in their interests.

“The modern era of digital communication has enabled that relationship to combine the best of journalistic rigour with a new, instant and transparent conversation.

“For readers it means a far greater sense of ownership than was ever possible in the past and for our commercial partners it adds up to a compelling way to reach customers in a way few other platforms can surpass.

“This campaign is a recognition of the irreplaceable contribution newspapers in Scotland make to business and society, and we’re very proud to have such a distinguished list of supporters.”

The SNS estimates Scotland’s media contributes £1.2bn to the country’s economy, with almost two thirds of that £770m – coming from the newspaper and publishing industry.