Print ad space up 21% since 2021: TAM AdEx
India’s print advertising market extended its post-pandemic recovery in 2025, though at a slower clip. Ad space per publication rose 21% compared with 2021 levels and inched up 2% year on year over 2024, according to TAM Media Research’s latest AdEx report.
27 Feb 2026 | 248 Views | By Rahul Kumar
The figures suggest a medium that has stabilised after the sharp rebound of the previous two years. The index of ad space per publication climbed from 100 in 2021 to 121 in 2025 (base year 2020 = 100), signalling sustained, if moderating, advertiser participation.
Quarterly data underscores the importance of seasonality. Ad space in Q3 and Q4 was 13% higher than in Q1, reflecting the enduring pull of festive and year-end spending cycles. For a medium often viewed as legacy, print continues to draw disproportionate budgets during moments that demand scale and immediacy.
Sectorally, automotive advertising once again set the pace. The Auto sector accounted for 16% of total print ad space in 2025, retaining its leadership. Services followed at 15%, while Education captured 14%. Banking/Finance/Investment contributed 11%, Retail 8% and Personal Accessories 7%. Collectively, the top 10 sectors made up 85% of total print ad space, pointing to high concentration among core verticals.
Read the complete story in Campaign India.