Top 8 Press Release Platforms (UK)
Submit once, reach thousands of journalists
This page lists leading press release distribution platforms that help startups syndicate news across multiple outlets, reach journalists quickly, and boost online visibility. Using these services can be a cost-effective way to amplify funding announcements, product launches, or partnerships without committing to a full PR agency.
Distribution platforms are a quick, often cost-effective way to syndicate your announcement across hundreds of sites, databases, and journalist feeds. Ideal when speed and broad visibility matter (product launches, partnerships, early-stage funding).
If you have news to share, you can start with a press release submission to quickly announce funding, launches, or partnerships. For ongoing storytelling and media strategy, explore our curated list of PR agencies that specialise in helping UK startups build credibility and secure coverage.
Press release distribution: when it helps
Distribution platforms are a quick, cost-effective way to syndicate your announcement across hundreds of sites, databases, and journalist feeds. They’re ideal when you need broad visibility fast — think product launches, partnerships, key hires, or early-stage funding.
- Best for: Speed, reach, and SEO/backlink coverage across multiple outlets.
- Not a replacement for: Tailored journalist pitching and relationship-building.
- What you’ll need: A clear headline, 1–2 founder quotes, 1–2 product images or logo, and a concise boilerplate.
Tip: Time your release Tuesday–Thursday between 08:00–10:00 (UK) for higher open and pickup rates.
8 Leading Press Release Platforms
Platforms* (name, description and website)
| Platform | Description |
|---|---|
| ResponseSource | UK-based media database and press release distribution service, widely used by tech and startup PR teams to reach journalists directly. Visit Website |
| Pressat | UK press release distribution platform with strong reach into startup, business, and technology media. Offers affordable packages suitable for early-stage companies. Visit Website |
| Business Wire | A global press release distribution service owned by Berkshire Hathaway. Popular with startups and scaleups needing broad international coverage. Visit Website |
| PR Newswire (Cision) | One of the world’s largest press release distribution networks. Frequently used by UK startups announcing funding rounds or product launches. Visit Website |
| Accesswire | Press release distribution platform offering cost-effective global reach, used by startups and SMEs to get visibility in business and tech media. Visit Website |
| Newswire | Online PR platform that combines distribution with media database access. Suitable for startups seeking both reach and journalist targeting. Visit Website |
| PRFire | UK-based press release distribution company offering affordable packages. Works with many startups and SMEs to push announcements into local and national media. Visit Website |
| Ein Presswire | Online news distribution service with global reach. Often used by startups and SMEs needing quick and low-cost press release visibility. Visit Website |
How to get the most from press release distribution
- Nail the angle: Lead with why it matters (market shift, scale, proof of traction), not just what happened.
- Write for skimming: 60–70 character headline, crisp first paragraph with the who/what/when/where/why.
- Add proof points: Metrics (users, revenue growth, customer logos), funding round details, and investor quotes when relevant.
- Include assets: Logo, product screenshots, founder headshots, and a media contact email that’s actively monitored.
- Target smartly: Choose the right categories/industry beats and add UK/region filters where available.
- Track properly: Use UTM links, monitor pickups and backlinks, and watch referral traffic in analytics.
- Follow up: Send a short, targeted note to 10–20 priority journalists with a personalised angle and your asset link.
When to use an agency instead
- Bigger stories: Large funding rounds, sensitive news, or reputation-critical narratives.
- Ongoing cadence: You need proactive thought leadership, briefings, and a steady drumbeat of coverage.
- Crisis or complex sectors: Regulated industries (fintech, healthtech) or issues that need senior counsel.
Distribution builds reach and SEO; targeted pitching builds relationships and depth. Use both where it makes sense.