Allied Press was formed through the merger of two Dunedin newspaper companies, the Otago Daily Times (ODT) and the former Evening Star, on 13 May 1975.

Smith and the tourism company Mount Cook Group attempted separate takeover bids of Allied Press by buying up shares.

OPP was active in egg and poultry distribution, fruit and producer markets, building supplies, and real estate.

The company also owns a range of community and farming newspapers through the South Island including North Canterbury News, the Ashburton Courier, The Timaru Courier, Oamaru Mail, Lakes District and Central Otago News, Mountain Scene, The Star and The Ensign.

[10] By 14 May 2020, the Government had eased lockdown restrictions, allowing Allied Press' community newspapers and magazines to resume operations.

[12] In October 2023, 40 journalists and 65 editorial and print distribution staff affiliated with the E tū union staged a 24 hour strike to demand that their wages be raised to industry pay rates.

[16] Allied Press is owned by Sir Julian Smith, who serves as its chairman and managing director, and his family.

[19] Allied Press also operates several regional offices throughout the South Island including Alexandra, Amberley, Ashburton, Balclutha, Gore, Invercargill, Oamaru, Queenstown, Rangiora, Timaru, and Wānaka.

It also owns a majority stake in the Greymouth Star along with a range of South Island community and farming newspapers.

Star Media also runs several Christchurch events including the City 2 Surf and the Home and Leisure Show.