Two independent news titles have merged in a bid to “continue reinventing regional media” in their area.

Cheltenham-based SoGlos has announced it is incorporating business website The Raikes Journal from today, with the latter’s founder Andrew Merrell, pictured, taking on the role of business editor at the merged title.

Andrew, who formerly served as business editor for publications including Gloucester newspaper The Citizen, the Gloucestershire Echo, Stroud Life and Gloucestershire Live – launched the Journal in April this year to cover business across the county.

SoGlos co-founder Michelle Fyrne explained how the merger came about in an announcement about the move.

She said: “We began work on SoGlos’s new Business section just weeks before the launch of The Raikes Journal, so naturally followed the website’s growth closely, and were continually impressed with Andrew’s industry expertise, instinct for the county’s top stories and firm commitment to quality journalism.

“As an independent media brand launched by Gloucestershire journalists almost 14 years ago, SoGlos was founded with a similar ethos and values to The Raikes Journal, and we thought there could be a great synergy between the two titles.

“We approached Andrew about our mission to continue reinventing regional media in an evolving, post-Covid world and were thrilled he shared the vision and will be joining the growing team at such an interesting time for the county.’

“With Andrew’s unrivalled expertise, the momentum The Raikes Journal has built up and SoGlos’s established reach across online, social, email and events, we’re hitting 2021 with Gloucestershire’s leading business platform for both readers and advertisers.”

Andrew has also edited Gloucestershire business magazines Agenda, Business News and the regional South West Business magazine, during his 25-year career.

He said: “The last nine months have been an amazing journey as I launched a new concept in The Raikes Journal. And while I never anticipated the onset of a global pandemic while I was developing the model, I’ve been taken aback by the support shown by the Gloucestershire business community.

“The site quickly established its position in the county and I was excited to see how it would continue to develop in 2021, however, when Michelle and James approached me I could immediately see how The Raikes Journal and SoGlos were a great fit together – particularly as they share my passion for celebrating Gloucestershire businesses and individuals.

“I’m thrilled to be joining the team and driving SoGlos Business forward with The Raikes Journal being incorporated into the brand.

“It will amplify the business coverage reach to an unrivalled audience – and I’m excited to work as part of a full team of journalists, business development managers, designers and videographers too.”