A regional publisher is among the media groups backing plans to create an “advertising centre of excellence”.

Digital advertising platform The Ozone Project has announced a new initiative which is supported by Reach plc as well as other leading publishing groups.

The plan will see Ozone introduce new digital display and video formats for advertisers, while the “centre of excellence” will support publishers’ standard digital format sales and operations.

The project is also backed by News UK, Telegraph Media Group and Guardian News & Media.

Ozone Project chief executive Damon Reeve said: “We are really excited about the increased service and value this investment will enable us to offer to our advertiser and publisher partners.

“In our first two years Ozone has grown strongly to meet a market need for quality and trust in digital advertising.

“This investment gives us an opportunity to broaden out to more advertisers and with a richer product set, building a better digital future for all.”

Reach chief revenue officer Piers North, pictured, added: “This expansion will take Ozone to the next phase, building on its successful performance in 2020 as our preferred partner, ensuring it remains one of the UK’s leading premium digital advertising platforms.”