VASP awarded contract for newspaper and magazine distribution in Portugal

The Portuguese government has confirmed that VASP – Distribuição e Logística, S.A. has been awarded the contract to manage the distribution of newspapers and magazines across mainland Portugal for the next three years.

The contract covers two distinct lots: the North and Center regions, and the West, Tagus Valley, Greater Lisbon, Setúbal Peninsula, Alentejo, and Algarve regions. By utilizing a competitive bidding process rather than providing direct support to a single operator, the government reduced projected costs by 78%. While initial estimates suggested an annual expenditure of 3.5 million euros, the total cost for the three-year contract will be approximately 2.29 million euros, averaging roughly 763,000 euros per year.

This measure is part of the Action Plan for Social Communication, designed to ensure written press remains accessible in all municipalities, particularly in low-density interior areas. Under the terms of the agreement, VASP must ensure distribution to at least one retail outlet in every municipality, with outlets operating a minimum of 300 days per year. In low-density municipalities, the company is committed to maintaining at least five points of sale.