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Time Out Bets Big on Food Markets to Offset Media Revenue Decline

  //media-entertainment.news-articles.net/content/ .. ood-markets-to-offset-media-revenue-decline.html
  Published in Media and Entertainment on Sunday, February 1st 2026 at 2:38 GMT by The Irish News
      Locales: UNITED KINGDOM, IRELAND

London, UK - February 1st, 2026 - Time Out, the globally recognized publisher of city guides, is aggressively expanding its food market footprint in a bid to offset continued declines in its traditional media revenue. The company, synonymous with curated city experiences for decades, is betting big on the growing demand for culinary tourism and localized food scenes, even as its core advertising business struggles.

Time Out's annual report, released last week, painted a stark picture of the challenges facing its media division. Advertising sales plummeted 19% in the year ending September 30th, reflecting a broader trend impacting print and digital media outlets alike. This decline underscores the difficulty of maintaining a profitable media operation in an increasingly competitive landscape dominated by digital platforms and shifting advertising spend.

The company's strategic response has been a concerted effort to transform itself from a purely media-focused entity into a 'global experiences' business. This pivot involves leveraging its established brand recognition and curatorial expertise to create immersive, real-world experiences centered around food, culture, and entertainment. However, this transition has proven to be more challenging than initially anticipated, directly contributing to the recent financial struggles.

"We've seen incredible success with our food markets in London, Dubai and New York," a Time Out spokesperson stated. "These aren't just places to eat; they've become vibrant community hubs, destinations for both local residents and tourists seeking authentic culinary experiences. We're eager to replicate that success globally."

The expansion plans are ambitious, with confirmed locations including Osaka and Vancouver already in the pipeline. Time Out is actively scouting locations in several other major cities, aiming to establish a network of bustling food markets that capture the spirit and flavors of each destination. These markets feature a carefully selected array of local vendors, showcasing diverse cuisines and artisanal products. The aim is to offer consumers a curated and high-quality food experience that goes beyond a typical food court or street food gathering.

Beyond simply establishing physical markets, Time Out is exploring a broader range of immersive food-related experiences. Plans include the organization of large-scale food festivals, hands-on cooking classes led by renowned chefs, and specialized culinary tours. This diversification strategy aims to capture a larger share of the growing experiential economy, attracting consumers who are increasingly prioritizing spending on memorable experiences over material possessions. The company sees significant potential in partnering with local chefs and food artisans to create unique and authentic offerings.

However, the annual report tempers the optimism surrounding the food market expansion with a cautious outlook for the media business. The report explicitly acknowledges the ongoing pressures in the advertising market and anticipates continued volatility in the near future. "The advertising landscape remains intensely competitive, and we foresee continued challenges in generating consistent revenue from traditional sources," the report states.

Analysts suggest Time Out's success will hinge on its ability to successfully manage the logistical complexities of operating food markets in diverse international locations. Factors such as securing suitable real estate, navigating local regulations, and maintaining consistent quality control will be crucial. Furthermore, the company will need to effectively market its food market experiences to attract both tourists and local residents.

The company is also facing increased competition in the experiential market from established players like Airbnb Experiences and newer entrants specializing in food tours and culinary adventures. Time Out will need to differentiate itself by leveraging its strong brand reputation and curatorial expertise to offer unique and high-quality experiences that stand out from the crowd. The future of Time Out appears to be increasingly intertwined with the success of its food market ventures. The company is demonstrating a willingness to adapt and innovate in a rapidly changing media landscape, but the road ahead is undoubtedly challenging.