Online Publishers Association appoints new exco

Browning is MD of Independent Online (IOL), Lohmann is publisher of 24.com, Adriaanse is CEO of Private Property, and Farinha is chief executive: Commercial for 24.com

The OPA, which has experienced a 25% increase in membership in 2006, is at the forefront of promoting the growth and profitability of the online publishing industry. This grouping of South Africa’s 31 most prominent online publishers, of which Bizcommunity.com is a member, ascribe to the highest standards in online publishing with respect to editorial quality, integrity and accountability.

“The online advertising industry needs great support in order to reach its full potential and advertisers need to be educated on new Internet technology and usage trends,” says Borain. “The OPA works closely with agencies and their brands to bring to life the possibilities of this increasingly essential media.”

Borain also states that the vision of the 2007 exco is to continue to grow online spend in South Africa through education. Last year saw a record spend whereby online advertising revenue in South Africa was R174 million among the members of the OPA.

OPA members include: 365 Digital, 5fm, Aardvark.co.za, Ananzi, Autotrader, BDFM Publishers, Bidorbuy, Bizcommunity.com, Business in Africa, CareerJunction, CreamerMedia, Funnel, iafrica.com, Independent Online, Interface’ ITWeb Limited, Johnnic Communications, Junkmail, Mail & Guardian Online (M&G Media Ltd), M-Net, Media 24 Digital, Moneyweb, MWeb, Multichoice - DStv, New Media, Ramsay, Son & Parker, SABCnews.com, Supersport Zone, Private Property, Uppercase Media and Yellowpages.co.za (Telkom Directory Services)

For more information, go to www.opa.org.za.