Terms and Conditions for Advertising
With The
STA Group
1. Introduction
These terms and conditions (“Terms”) govern all advertising, promotional content (advertorial), and opinion editorial (“Content”) submitted for publication on the digital platforms / owned channels of The STA Group (“Publisher”). By submitting Content or purchasing advertising space, you agree to comply with these Terms.
2. Acceptance of Terms
By submitting any Content to the Publisher, you (“Advertiser” or “Contributor”) agree to these Terms, which may be updated or revised at any time by the Publisher. It is the responsibility of the Advertiser or Contributor to review these Terms periodically.
3. Content Submission and Approval
– All Content is subject to approval by the Publisher, which reserves the right to reject, edit, or request modifications to the Content without prior notice.
– Opinion Editorials must meet the Publisher’s standards of accuracy, clarity, and editorial style, as outlined in the Editorial Guidelines (see booking form)
– Advertisers and Contributors must submit Content by seven (7) working days prior to publication unless otherwise agreed / subject to a Rush Charge premium
4. Advertising Specifications
– Advertisers are responsible for submitting creatives (banners, images, videos, etc.) that meet the Publisher’s technical specifications found here
– The Publisher does not guarantee positioning or exclusivity unless expressly agreed in writing.
5. Payment Terms
– Advertisers agree to pay for all advertising services based on the rates and payment terms agreed
– All content must be paid in full prior to publication, unless otherwise agreed
– Payments are due upon receipt of the invoice, and failure to pay may result in the removal of the Content or suspension of further services.
6. Editorial Integrity
– Advertorials will be clearly marked as “Promotional Content” to distinguish them from editorial content.
– The Publisher maintains full editorial independence and reserves the right to reject or request changes to Content that compromises its integrity or violates its ethical standards.
7. Prohibited Content
Advertisers and Contributors are prohibited from submitting content that:
– Contains misleading, false, or unsubstantiated claims;
– Infringes on the intellectual property rights of others;
– Promotes illegal activities, violence, or discrimination;
– Contains explicit, defamatory, or obscene material.
8. Liability
– The Advertiser or Contributor warrants that all Content submitted does not violate any applicable laws or third-party rights.
– The Publisher is not liable for any losses or damages arising from the publication of submitted Content.
9. Cancellation, Termination and Refund
– Advertiser Cancellation: Advertisers may cancel an advertising campaign by providing written notice in line with the terms below. Once the campaign has begun, no refunds will be issued, and full payment will be required for the entire campaign term.
- Cancellation One Month Prior: If the Advertiser cancels the agreement or campaign 30 or more days prior to the scheduled publication or campaign start date, a full refund (100%) of the total fees paid will be issued.
- Cancellation Two Weeks Prior: If the Advertiser cancels the agreement or campaign between 15 and 29 days prior to the scheduled publication or campaign start date, a partial refund of 50% of the total fees paid will be issued.
- Cancellation Within 14 Days: If the Advertiser cancels the agreement or campaign 14 days or fewer prior to the scheduled publication or campaign start date, no refund will be given.
– Publisher Cancellation: The Publisher reserves the right to cancel any advertising, promotional content, or opinion editorial at any time if the Advertiser or Contributor violates these Terms or submits prohibited content. In such cases, no refund will be provided. The Publisher may also cancel campaigns due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., platform changes, legal compliance issues) and will issue a pro-rated refund for the remaining campaign duration if applicable.
– Mutual Cancellation: Both parties may agree to cancel a campaign or submission by mutual written consent. Any refund or credit provided will depend on the terms agreed upon at the time of cancellation.
– The Publisher reserves the right to terminate the relationship without liability if there is a breach of these Terms.
All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing to the Publisher to be considered valid.
10. Governing Law
These Terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales. Any disputes arising out of or in connection with these Terms shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.
Opinion Editorial Guidelines
for The STA Group
1. Purpose of Opinion Editorials
Op-Eds published by The STA Group provide a platform for informed voices to share perspectives on current events, industry trends, and relevant topics. Our goal is to engage readers with insightful analysis, backed by facts, and contribute to constructive public conversations.
2. Tone and Style
– Tone: We encourage strong, well-reasoned opinions delivered in a respectful and professional manner. Personal attacks, inflammatory language, or unsubstantiated accusations are not acceptable.
– Style: Writing should be clear, direct, and engaging. Keep jargon to a minimum, use active voice, and opt for a conversational yet authoritative style. Aim to make your points accessible without losing depth.
3. Content Requirements
– Originality: Submissions must be original and not previously published. Plagiarism will result in immediate disqualification.
– Word Count: Op-Eds should range between 700 and 1,200 words, depending on the subject matter’s complexity.
– Structure: Your piece should have a clear introduction, well-organised body, and a thoughtful conclusion. Ensure your argument is supported by evidence, data, or real-world examples, and consider addressing opposing views where appropriate.
4. Submission Process
– Format: Submissions should be in Microsoft Word or Google Docs format, double-spaced, with headings clearly marked.
– Author Bio: Please include a brief bio (2-3 sentences) and your relevant credentials with each submission.
– Citations: If referencing data, studies, or other sources, ensure proper attribution. Hyperlinks to sources are preferred when possible.
5. Prohibited Topics and Content
We will not accept Op-Eds that:
– Promote hate speech or discriminatory rhetoric.
– Defame individuals or organisations.
– Contain unverified claims or conspiracy theories.
– Disguise promotional or commercial content as opinion.
6. Editing Process
– The STA Group reserves the right to edit Op-Eds for clarity, grammar, and style, ensuring the author’s original message is preserved.
– Significant edits will be communicated to the author prior to publication.
7. Disclaimer
All published Op-Eds will carry a disclaimer stating that the views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of The STA Group.
8. Publication Rights
By submitting an Op-Ed, authors grant The STA Group the exclusive right to publish the article. The STA Group may also share the piece across its affiliated platforms and social media channels.
9. Review and Response
The STA Group welcomes open dialogue. We may choose to publish select responses or letters to the editor in reaction to Op-Eds.
These guidelines are designed to ensure that all contributions promote meaningful, respectful debate and uphold the highest editorial standards. We look forward to receiving your submission!