Industry auditor ABC is to change its reporting standards to allow digital copies to count towards overall circulation.

Publishers will now be able to report both print and digital copies sent to the same individual in their main circulation figure, it was announced today.

This move, supported by the industry and approved by ABC’s board, is designed to enable total ABC circulation to fully represent print and digital copies, reflecting how media is consumed across both formats.

To ensure transparency, the number of individuals receiving both digital and print copies will be shown on ABC reports and certificates, along with further detail.

Additional changes will see digital copies added to some circulation categories that previously were restricted only to print copies.

And circulation categories across industry sectors have been more closely aligned, both for consistency and in order to make cross-sector comparisons easier for media buyers.

ABC’s chief executive Simon Redlich said, “We’re delighted to unveil our updated standards, delivering efficiencies for both publishers and buyers whilst providing a more complete picture of the publishing industry.

“We’re grateful to the many individuals representing buyers and sellers who have shaped this work, enhancing the delivery of trusted data that is valued by the whole industry.”

Paul Sinker, director of communications at the News Media Association, said:  “By streamlining reporting requirements and providing a more complete picture of digital circulation, ABC is enabling newsbrands to further communicate the value of their innovative digital and print products, underpinned by trusted data.”

The next set of regional press circulation figures, covering the first half of this year, are due out in July or August.