The Audit Bureau of Circulations (ABC) is a non-profit organisation. Its primary function is the certification and provision of accurate and comparable circulation figures, to assist the bi-partite groupings (advertisers/marketers and publishers) in the buying and selling of advertising and promotional material. This is achieved through agreement or auditing standards; on the certificates; and on the reports submitted.

Publisher members are requested to submit audited figures verifying their circulation, by means of a circulation certificate. The audit of the certificate must be conducted by a Registered Accountant and Auditor who must have full-access to all financial accounts and other relevant records connected with the publication for the purpose of a complete and accurate ABC audit. The Bureau does random check audits to verify the information prepared by the publisher.

The main objective of the ABC is to promote the interests of the buyers (advertisers and marketers) and sellers (media owners) of advertising and promotional material by providing accurate and comparable circulation data. Further objectives are to provide circulation data that is in no way inaccurate, misleading or distorted; to deal honestly and fairly with all parties; and to increase industry awareness regarding the benefits of ABC membership and of the information provided.

For more information call 011 551 9700, email abc@abc.org.za or visit www.abc.org.za.