A media embargo is a formal agreement between a PR source and journalists that information provided in advance will not be published until a specific, clearly-stated date and time. Embargoes let journalists prepare thoughtful coverage while ensuring all publications release simultaneously at the agreed moment.
How embargoes work
- Source shares information in advance with named journalists under embargo.
- Embargo time is clearly stated in writing (date, time, timezone).
- Journalists prepare coverage during the embargo period.
- All publications release at the agreed moment.
UK embargo conventions
- Always agreed in writing before sharing under embargo.
- Mass-sent “embargoed” releases without specific agreement are not binding.
- BBC, Reuters, FT, Bloomberg respect embargoes rigorously.
- Breaking an embargo damages agency and client reputation with journalists.