The BBC is to introduce advertising on its website www.bbc.com as part of a major cost savings plan launched in the UK, where up to 1800 job cuts are expected to be announced today.
The site which is funded by UK licence fee payers had previously been advertising free but there has been increasing pressure for advertising to be carried on the site for those people living outside the country.
BBC Worldwide, the commercial arm of the BBC said advertising will be on selected high-traffic pages.
The revenues will be invested in growing the content, reach and functionality of the site.
John Smith, CEO of BBC Worldwide, said: “The expansion of our digital offering marks a step change for BBC Worldwide. Our users come to us for a renowned journalistic product and for some of the most creative content available in the world. The new structure for the BBC website will enable us to deliver even more to consumers, both in the UK and internationally.”
Earlier this year BBC Worldwide announced a global strategy to focus on growing its businesses in key international territories, including Australia.
In February it took a 25% stake in Freehand Productions as a first step to becoming an international content producer in Australia. It has also recently acquired 75% of travel information group Lonely Planet.
