MARKETING: news file.

SMASH HITS IN TV SHOW ISSUE

Emap is producing a one-off version of Smash Hits to promote the TV show Popstars. Under the deal, negotiated between Emap's managing director of pop Trevor Dann and Granada Television, the magazine will be called Popstars but branded as a Smash Hits Publication when it goes on sale on March 14. This will be the second of a series of one-off versions of Smash Hits planned for this year. The first, called Smash Brits, will be published on February 28, just two days after the Earl's Court event. Both titles are being edited by former Smash Hits editor John Mckie, who does not officially take charge of Q magazine until March.

PRO-PLUS WIRED FOR MTV

The Caffeine tablet brand ProPlus has become the first digital-only sponsor signed by MTV Networks UK. The 12-month deal agreed with Roche Products sees the brand supporting MTV Dance on digital channel MTV Extra. MTV has commissioned five-second sponsorship billboards.

MXR WINS DIGITAL LICENCE

The MXR consortium has won the digital licence for the South Wales/Severn Estuary region. The consortium comprises radio groups Chrysalis, Capital, Jazz FM, UBC Media, Psion and The Guardian Media Group (GMC). The services include Capital's Fun children's radio format and GMC's Smooth station aimed at the over-40s.

MOVING UP AT IPC