30 years since its launch, the evergreen pre-school title continues to sell one copy every minute in the UK market.

The UK’s biggest specialist children’s publisher, Egmont Publishing, is celebrating the 30th birthday of Thomas & Friends magazine with licensing partner Mattel.

The latest ABC results demonstrate that Thomas & Friends magazine is still delivering sales growth 30 years after it first launched into the UK market.

Thomas & Friends magazine is the oldest single character magazine in the UK market. This phenomenal performance is testament to the strength of the Thomas & Friends brand, as well as the successful publishing partnership between Egmont and Mattel.

Kiran Vara, publisher of Thomas & Friends magazine at Egmont, commented: “Thomas & Friends magazine is a joy to work on. The introduction of new characters and locations keeps our young readers engaged and devoted to the magazine. The fun and interactive magazine content deepens their love for the brand and the free toy train covermounted with every issue adds to their delight.”

Maribel Rivas Le Gelebart, senior licensing manager across UK & EMEA at Mattel, commented: “To have a children’s magazine celebrating 30 years of existence before a 75th birthday is super exciting. Egmont has been able to convey and capture the spirit of storytelling, which is at the heart of Thomas and Friends, and we look forward to another 30 years.”

Thomas & Friends magazine is on sale every three weeks, with a cover price of £3.99.