Offering a Fresh Perspective

One of the biggest benefits of switching to a new printer is gaining a fresh perspective. Print Sales Representatives and Customer Service Representatives are experts in the printing industry and can offer valuable insights and suggestions to help you improve your publication. They can help you identify new opportunities to enhance your design and improve your printing process. 

A New World of Printing Options

Your new printing partner may offer additional printing options to help you create a stunning publication that stands out from the crowd. Be sure to ask about their paper, finishing and binding options so you can fully understand the range of possibilities. 

Streamlined Mailing Solutions

Your new printing partner may give you a leg up on distribution. An expert printing company will likely have access to mail solutions like CoMailing, CoMingling, dropshipping and more. Plus, depending on their location, they may be able to get your publication to its readers’ doors faster and with lower overall shipping costs.

Maximizing Your Budget

With a fresh perspective and a different set of printing options, your new printer may be able to help you find new ways to save on printing costs and maximize your budget. For example, when Sophia Institute Press approached �������Ƶ with their idea for a brand-new monthly publication, we were able to utilize specialty printing equipment at our Ripon, Wisconsin, printing facility to realize their vision while also helping them save. 

Additional Tips for Refreshing Your Publication

In addition to switching to a new printer, here are a few other tips for refreshing your publication:

• Update your design: A fresh new design can help your publication look more modern and appealing.
• : Keep your content fresh and relevant by introducing new sections or features.
• Engage your audience: Use social media, direct mail campaigns or even in-person events to further connect with your readers and grow your community.

The �������Ƶ Difference

�������Ƶ is committed to providing exceptional printing services and customer support. With a long history of excellence and a focus on innovation, �������Ƶ can help you achieve your publishing goals. By partnering with �������Ƶ, you can:

• Gain a fresh perspective: Our experienced team can offer valuable insights and suggestions to help you give your publication a new look and feel.
• Access a wide range of printing options: Choose from multiple printing methods, paper options, coatings and binding types to create a truly unique publication.
• Explore digital editions: Expand your publication to offer digital editions for subscribers, giving them a new way to engage.

Ready to Refresh Your Publication?

If you’re ready to take your publication to the next level, don’t be afraid to make a change. �������Ƶ can help you breathe new life into your publication. With over 87 years of experience in the print industry, we offer unmatched expertise and commitment to quality. Plus, as a family-owned company, we strive to establish trusted partnerships with each and every customer. Contact �������Ƶ today to learn more about what we have to offer.

* This article was developed with assistance from Google’s PaLM 2 large language AI model.

The post How Switching to a New Printer Can Refresh Your Publication appeared first on �������Ƶ.

How It All Started

Maddox and Archer share a common trait: their humble beginnings in the print industry. Both men started in print right out of high school in an entry-level role. “A friend of mine suggested working at the Ovid Bell Press; I was hired on and started right around my 18th birthday,” said Maddox. “Then, I was a Sheetfed Operator for about a year. I went from there to Web Operator, and after that, I took the foreman job on nights for about 12 years. After that, I worked as the Bindery Manager, then Night Shift Lead in the press room before I got the management spot about two and a half years ago.”

While Maddox has worked in print for around 25 years, Archer boasts a four-decade career in print. “It’s scary to think this is actually my 41st year in the printing industry,” said Archer. “I started out of high school in 1983 as a utility in the press room at RR Donnelley, sweeping the floors and dumping trash, working my way up to Press Operator there. I was there for 11 years.” He then worked foreman, supervisor and management roles at several printing companies in plants across the country, including Denver, Colorado; Clarksville, Tennessee; Jefferson City, Missouri; and Roanoke, Virginia, before taking the manager position in Saint Joseph in 2017.

How It’s Changed

It’s no secret that thanks to technology, the world has changed drastically in the last few decades, and the print industry is no exception. “When I started in the trade, pre-press was still stripping film and burning plates, now that’s all computer to plate,” said Maddox. “You had to key ink by hand, now it’s all automated. The industry has changed a lot in the last few decades.”

Archer adds, “When I first got into the industry, color controls and register systems were all done manually. Now there’s newer design equipment, gapless technology on our blankets, computer to plate – it’s all digital now. It’s reduced errors and increased productivity. In the bindery, with our new binder, everything is set up automatically. We’ve seen increased uptime with the design of new pockets and increased speeds for that same reason.”

The Day-to-Day

Maddox’s typical day as Press Manager looks a little different at the moment, thanks to �������Ƶ – Fulton’s current push to install newer equipment. “Right now, I’m mostly dealing with equipment installations, searching for parts for this new equipment or trying to make new contacts with vendors,” said Maddox. “Overall, I’m trying to get my department to give the next department the best product we can. It can be challenging because a lot of this stuff is hard to come by. But looking toward the end of the tunnel, I know everything is going to be great.”

Up in Michigan, Archer went through a similar challenge when he first started at �������Ƶ – Saint Joseph seven years ago. “When I first got here, the plant needed a lot of change. We had older equipment that needed to be maintained and replaced. Getting a job in and out the door required a different effort and focus than we have today,” said Archer. Thankfully, that light at the end of the tunnel arrived. “Today, we’ve got processes in place. I might have spent more time with quality issues in the past. We don’t have many of those anymore. My typical day today is, I catch up on emails and do a standard meeting in the morning to find out what we’ve done in the last 24 hours and what we’re going to do in the next 24 hours.”

Their Love of Print

Archer cites the variety his job provides as a reason he’s stayed in the print industry for four decades. “One of the things I always wanted to do was come in every single day and it be different. It’s never the same, there’s always something different; you’re making something different. Different content, different paper, different challenges. It’s constantly challenging you. That’s something I enjoy. The next problem that needs to be solved.”

Maddox noted the combination of skills needed to be successful as a reason he loves working in print. “There’s a lot of hands-on work, and a lot of technology is involved. It’s a broad spectrum of things someone needs to know.”

Tips for Magazine Publishers

Over the years, Phil Archer has worked with countless magazine publishers, whether they’re first-timers or veterans of the industry. His advice? Understand the product you’re trying to create. “Take advantage of our onboarding process to understand how your design is going to look on press. Are you using the right paper? For example, if you have photographs, you don’t want matte stock, you want nice gloss,” said Archer.

Archer continued to emphasize the importance of considering what the item will be used for. “Is this a coffee table book, or something that people are only going to read once? If it’s a coffee table book, consider perfect bound or case bound. Saddle stitch is a great way to save money, but it doesn’t have the same longevity.” Having knowledgeable printers in your corner to help you with these decisions can be a game changer.

What You Should Know About the Print Industry

As a four-decade veteran of the print industry, Archer wants the world to understand that print is thriving. “It’s over a 70 billion dollar industry. It’s a big industry, but also close-knit,” said Archer. “It’s all over the world. It’s kind of like being a doctor; you can go all over the world and have a job in just about any city, anywhere you want to go there’s work to be done.”

Finally, Archer stressed the benefits of a career in printing. “There’s opportunity for advancement at all levels. If you don’t have a degree, you can still make it to plant manager. You can learn to be a supervisor. You can keep learning new roles. There are always opportunities for advancement and increases in pay.” Archer added, “For someone coming out of high school and college is not an option for them, the printing industry is alive and well. It’s gonna be there for a long time. To come in and learn a trade and have a career with the opportunity for advancement is a fantastic way to raise your family. We can help with that.”

Consider a Career in Print With �������Ƶ

If you’re interested in starting or continuing your career in print, �������Ƶ is a great place to learn the ins and outs of the trade. �������Ƶ has state of the art printing facilities in Saint Joseph, Michigan; Ripon, Wisconsin; and Fulton, Brookfield and Marceline, Missouri. Our company culture emphasizes trust, teamwork and integrity, and we’re passionate about hiring local talent from the communities that house our printing facilities. and launch your career in print today!

The post From Press to Pages: An Interview With �������Ƶ’s Master Magazine Printers appeared first on �������Ƶ.

1. Campus Updates

Provide updates on campus developments, new programs and recent events to keep alumni connected to their alma mater. Alumni readers will likely be very interested to know what’s happening on their old stomping grounds, and updates about new construction projects and developments may even convince them to schedule a campus visit.

News about construction projects, music and theatre performances and homecoming activities are all examples of content to include in this section.

2. Career Advice

Offer tips and insights from alumni experts on career advancement, job search strategies and professional development. While this type of content could be relevant and helpful to any alum, it will likely attract young alumni in particular, who are looking to gain footing in their burgeoning careers.

Not only is career-related content interesting and popular, it will help foster a positive perception of the university as an institution that supports its alumni throughout all stages of their careers.

3. Faculty Features

Highlight the work and achievements of current and retired faculty members, showcasing their impact on students and the university. Alumni will be pleased to learn about new faculty joining the staff at their alma mater, and wistful to hear of their favorite professor’s retirement. Some examples of stories to include in this section are a faculty promotion or tenure, an anniversary milestone or a professor developing a brand new course.

Including faculty features also allows you to use your alumni magazine to showcase the knowledge and experience of your university’s talented teaching staff.

4. Historical Features

Explore the history of the university, highlighting milestones, traditions and notable alumni from different eras. Alumni will be interested to learn how their alma mater was founded and grew over the years, especially if you feature specific buildings or areas of campus that may be important to them.

Content that explores the history of your university, especially if combined with old photographs from the eras being described, is a powerful way to capture your alumni readers’ attention and make them feel personally connected with the university. If your magazine has been in publication for a long time, you may even have an archive of past issues that you can include images from, including a simple snapshot of the item itself.

5. Travel and Culture

Share travel stories and cultural insights from alumni around the world, highlighting their experiences and discoveries. This type of content is a great way to allow alumni to contribute to your publication with their stories and personal recommendations. Readers love personal stories like this, and it may even convince more alumni to become frequent travelers.

In addition to travel stories, you can fill this section with food and sightseeing recommendations, helpful travel tips and even sample itineraries.

6. Technology and Innovation

Your alumni will want to know how the university is working to keep up with the times. Explore how the university is leveraging new technological developments in its methods, and how it’s affecting the way students learn. If faculty members at the university have made any breakthroughs or advancements in their respective fields, this is a great section to highlight it.

Highlighting the advancements developed or leveraged by the university will inspire confidence in alumni, who will view their alma mater as modern and cutting-edge.

7. Alumni Spotlights

In-depth writeups that feature notable alumni are a good way to make alumni feel valued and connected while also creating interesting content for your magazine, as long as there’s a good story to tell. You could feature alumni who have found great success in their careers, gone through a life-changing experience or contributed something to better their community, for example.

Spotlighting alumni is a good way to encourage readership from alumni hoping to see how their former classmates are doing. In a recent interview with , Rebekah Tilley, Director of Strategic Communications at the University of Iowa’s Tippey College of Business, notes that this type of content is a big draw for young readers.

“One of the things that surprised me particularly was that our young alumni told me over and over again: ‘Oh, we love getting this! We get so few things in print anymore that this is really special to us, and we hang on to it, and it’s on our coffee table, and we flip immediately to alumni notes to see if our friends are there and see if their photos are in print, because they live in a digital world,’” said Rebekah.

Print Your Alumni Magazine With �������Ƶ

No matter how you choose to lay out your alumni magazine, make sure you’re working with a quality printer. In addition to interesting, well-crafted content, you’ll need to distribute a magazine that looks and feels great. As the third-largest magazine printer in the United States and Canada, we know how to take your publication from design to print, and then get it into the hands of your alumni.

To learn more about the benefits of printing with an award-winning, family-owned company, contact �������Ƶ today!

The post 7 Engaging Content Ideas for Your Alumni Magazine appeared first on �������Ƶ.

And like any breakthrough technology, there’s cause for a range of feelings. Reactions often depend on your perspective and, more specifically, how you see the technology impacting your future.

For example, Hollywood actors and writers went on strike over a number of issues, including pay and working conditions. But they’re also concerned with the use and generation of AI. And the Culinary Union in Las Vegas narrowly avoided a strike over AI. The union points to examples of AI-powered robots mixing drinks and a security robot patrolling a resort parking lot.

When it comes to AI, there’s certainly a lot to consider. Yet the strong conviction among business leaders is that AI will be an important part of the future.

According to strategy and consultant giant , 97% of executives said that “generative AI will be transformative to their company and industry.” What’s more, 95% of organizations surveyed are increasing their investments in data and AI. Seven in 10 held specific training programs in 2023 to prepare employees for the use of generative AI tools.

Where Is AI Used Now?

A Simplilearn tutorial by Avijeet Biswal, “AI Applications: Top 18 Artificial Intelligence Applications in 2023,” says common current uses of AI include:

• Virtual assistants like Siri and Alexa
• Recommendation systems used in e-commerce platforms
• Fraud detection in financial institutions
• Autonomous vehicles
• Natural language processing (NLP) for chatbots and customer service
• Image and facial recognition in security systems
• Medical diagnosis and healthcare systems

It’s clear the list is expanding into other areas that include magazines and all forms of journalism. In an August 2023 Intelligencer article, “How Will Artificial Intelligence Change the News Business?” author John Herrman says, “Bloomberg has been using AI tools to help streamline basic financial reporting for years, and wire services have been using story generators to write sports recaps and summarize earning reports for more than a decade.”

Magazine Industry Disruption Still Speculative

Despite the experimentation and limited applications that are occurring, the magazine industry is in a “what could be” state versus an all-out AI transformation. So, let’s take a look at four key areas that could be impacted the most, along with the pros and cons of AI integration:

1. Automated Content Generation. AI tools and algorithms may generate new content and summaries of short- and long-form content. This could help publishers save money while keeping up with the quick pace of today’s news cycles. AI will also impact the proofreading and editing areas. AI-driven tools will not only identify grammatical errors but also add consistency to writing and could even improve styles. Savings in time and personnel could be considerable.
2. Content Customization. There is a two-fold aspect to customization. The first is using AI-enabled tools to power recommendation systems for customizing reader content. The intent is to increase reader engagement and improve the reading experience. Publishers can also use the data to better understand audiences and more effectively market their magazines. The second aspect is allowing advertisers to apply the data to create more targeted advertising. The data can also help advertisers discover the best formats and ad placements. This not only increases advertising effectiveness but also improves the reader’s experience by minimizing irrelevant ads.
3. Design and Formatting. According to Marcin Frąckiewicz in a TS2 Space article, “How AI is Shaping the Future of the Magazine Publishing Industry,” May 2023, “AI is also transforming the way magazines are designed and formatted.” AI-driven tools are now able to analyze data and learn from prior popular designs to create visually appealing layouts. Like all automation, this saves time in the design process. AI also helps ensure that each edition of the magazine is visually consistent and engaging for the reader.
4. Predictive Analytics. Every publisher can benefit from being able to better forecast revenue and readership trends. AI-enabled predictive tools can help publishers analyze large amounts of data and make informed decisions about everything from content development to distribution.

What’s the Potential Downside?

Bo Sacks has been a veteran of the printing and publishing industry since 1970. He’s widely regarded as an innovator and has held directorships at prestigious companies such as McCall’s, Time Inc., New York Times Magazine Group, International Paper, Ziff-Davis, CMP and Bill Communications (VNU). While optimistic about the overall application of AI in the magazine industry, he also notes some potential negatives in his Jan. 20, 2023, article, “BoSacks Speaks Out: The Dark Side of AI for the Magazine Industry?” We share some of his insights here:

• AI could reduce the number of writers and editors, eliminating jobs and decreasing the number of voices in the industry.
• AI could automate the editing and proofreading process in a way that leads to a decrease in content quality. The AI-powered tools simply may not be able to detect errors and make changes in the same way as human beings.
• AI-powered recommendation systems could homogenize content. Their algorithms may select popular, profitable content over more niche or experimental content.
• AI could lead to issues around plagiarism and copyright infringement. Many insiders predict potential legal challenges and financial losses for publishers, authors and other stakeholders.
• AI might hinder the development of new writers, though it likely won’t provide the same level of feedback and mentoring as human editors. And with the potential elimination of many entry-level jobs, it’s fair to wonder how the next generation of publishing professionals will develop.

So, Is AI Your Magazine’s Friend or Foe?

Probably a little of each. No doubt it’s a powerful, disruptive technology. And we’re only seeing the tip of the iceberg.

AI clearly has the potential to automate and improve efficiency across the publishing enterprise. Productivity will increase through the automation of many repetitive tasks. It also requires investment and training and will reduce or eliminate some positions.

But make no mistake, it’s a big thing that’s certain to impact your magazine publishing business and career.

The post Is AI Your Magazine’s Friend or Foe? appeared first on �������Ƶ.

The Early Days: 18th and Early 19th Centuries

was published on Feb. 13, 1741, by Andrew Bradford, and was titled American Magazine, or Monthly View of the Political State of the British Colonies. Exactly three days later, the second American magazine was published by one of the founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin. Unfortunately, both magazines were short-lived; Bradford’s publication ended after just three months, and Franklin’s, titled The General Magazine, and Historical Chronicle for all the British Plantations in America only lasted six.

During this initial era, it was difficult for magazines to attract and retain readership, mainly due to the difficulties of mass production and distribution. However, thanks to the industrial revolution in the early 19th century magazines became more accessible than ever and publications began to gain momentum.

Godey’s Lady’s Book

Launched in 1830, Godey’s Lady’s Book was a widely popular women’s magazine that influenced fashion and domestic trends for several decades. It featured literature, fashion plates and articles, becoming a cultural touchstone for women in the 19th century.

Harper’s Weekly

Harper’s Weekly, founded in 1857, was a prominent American illustrated publication that played a crucial role in shaping public opinion during the Civil War era. Known for its political cartoons and coverage of social issues, it provided a snapshot of American life in the 19th century. The magazine went out of print in 1916, though its sister magazines, Harper’s Bazaar and Harper’s Magazine, are still being published today.

Finding its Footing: Late 19th Century Magazines

The late 19th century brought the emergence of several immensely popular magazines, some of which are still in publication to this day. These magazines started to shift towards targeted audiences, in contrast to the general interest and social commentary publications of the early to mid-1800s.

Thanks to the , which significantly lowered postage rates for magazines, magazine readership soared at the end of the 19th century, and the total number of magazines in print in the United States spiked from around 1,200 in 1870 to 4,500 in 1890.

During this time, the influence magazines held over American culture grew, as did their potential as an advertising platform.

National Geographic

National Geographic, founded in 1888, is a renowned magazine dedicated to geography, science and culture. During the initial era, National Geographic was a scholarly, text-oriented journal. The magazine, now famed for its stunning photography and in-depth articles, has become a global authority on exploration and discovery.

Vogue

Vogue, founded in 1892, is an iconic fashion and lifestyle magazine identifying and setting trends for over a century. With a focus on high fashion, beauty and culture, Vogue has played a significant role in shaping global fashion trends. but transitioned to a monthly women’s magazine in the early 1900s.

Field & Stream

Founded in 1895, Field & Stream is a magazine dedicated to outdoor activities, particularly hunting and fishing. It has provided enthusiasts with expert advice, gear reviews and stories of adventure, making it a staple for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Golden Age: 20th Century Magazines

With the turn of the century, the country saw the inception of several important and immensely popular magazines. When added to the growing list of American publications, they helped solidify magazines’ place in American culture. More than ever, magazines were becoming a source of entertainment for average people, due in part to .

Better Homes and Gardens

Better Homes and Gardens Magazine, founded in 1922 as Fruit, Garden and Home, has established itself as a popular lifestyle publication. Renowned for its focus on home and family, the magazine offers a diverse range of content, including home improvement tips, gardening advice, recipes and creative DIY projects.

Time

Founded in 1923, Time Magazine has been a major player in American journalism, providing in-depth coverage of world events, politics, and culture. The weekly publication is renowned for its impactful covers and influential Person of the Year feature.

Life

Life was originally published in 1883 as a weekly entertainment magazine before being by Henry Luce, publisher of Time, and transitioning to a photographic news magazine. Life became a pioneering force in photojournalism, capturing the essence of major events and cultural phenomena for several decades. Its visual storytelling made it a cultural touchstone for generations.

City/Regional Magazines

The 20th century is also when the United States began to see city and regional magazines crop up. The content of these publications is themed around their respective areas and helps keep residents connected, while showcasing local merchants and restaurants – most of which are paid advertisers.

Baltimore

Baltimore was first published in 1907 and is the oldest continuously published city magazine in the United States. The magazine keeps residents informed about current events, local politics, food and drink, art, culture and more. Baltimore publishes monthly and also produces specific, supplemental editions like Baltimore Game Changers and Baltimore Weddings.

Honolulu

Honolulu was originally published as Paradise of the Pacific in 1888, though technically at the time it was not an American magazine. The publication changed its name to Honolulu in 1966, seven years after Hawaii officially became a U.S. state. Originally, the magazine was intended to help drive tourism to the Islands but shifted its focus in the 20th century to highlight dining, culture, entertainment and politics for Hawaii residents.

Post-World War II Era: Rise of Specialized Magazines

In the 1950s and 60s, popular magazines saw another shift towards more targeted audiences and subject matters, with the rise of special interest and niche magazines like Sports Illustrated, which centered around sports news and discussions, and Ebony, which became a voice for African American culture in the United States.

Mad Magazine

Founded in 1952, Mad Magazine revolutionized satire and humor in American pop culture. With its irreverent take on politics, entertainment and society, Mad became a cultural phenomenon, influencing generations of readers with its iconic parodies.

Sports Illustrated

Sports Illustrated, first published in 1954, has been a preeminent sports magazine, offering in-depth coverage of athletes, events, and sports culture. The magazine has been providing relevant commentary on the state of professional sports since its inception, featuring an annual “Sportsperson of the Year” award, as well as naming Muhammad Ali “” in 1999.

Rolling Stone

Rolling Stone, founded in 1967, has been a trailblazer in music journalism and pop culture coverage. The magazine has featured iconic cover stories, interviews and reviews, solidifying its reputation as a cultural authority. Rolling Stone not only covered popular music and entertainment but also featured political coverage during periods of drastic cultural shifts in the United States.

Trade Magazines

Trade magazines, or trade journals, are publications catered toward professionals in a specific trade or profession. The United States saw numerous trade magazines go to print throughout the 20th century. These publications are generally printed and distributed to subscribers and are a popular medium for advertisers because they reach a highly curated audience.

Popular Mechanics

Popular Mechanics, first published in 1902, is an American magazine catering to craftsmen and mechanics. Originally focused on practical information, it has evolved to cover a wide range of topics, including technology, science and home improvement/DIY. Popular Mechanics is still in print today and has spun off multiple international editions distributed worldwide.

Fortune

Fortune magazine, established in 1929, stands as a pioneering trade publication focused on business and finance. Renowned for its in-depth analyses and iconic Fortune 500 list, the magazine has been a staple for executives, investors and professionals, shaping the landscape of business journalism and providing a comprehensive view of economic trends throughout the 20th and 21st centuries.

The Digital Revolution: Late 20th Century to Present

Magazines are among the many aspects of life that changed in the digital age. Many successful magazines now publish digital editions alongside their print publications to provide readers with another way to engage. Magazines like , and regularly publish online-only content in addition to the articles featured in their print editions. Some magazines have shifted their strategies to entirely digital publishing, choosing to forgo printing altogether (though many readers still prefer print).

While these online-only publications have made magazines more accessible than ever, they lack the historical significance of traditional print magazines. There’s something to be said for magazines as a sort of time capsule – an issue that covers an important event can serve as a tangible record of a time and place in American history. For example, looking through Time magazines from the 1960s can give you a perspective of the Civil Rights Movement, the Kennedy assassination, and the moon landing that you won’t get from a history book.

Above all, print magazines offer a unique, tactile experience that can’t be replicated by digital publications. The internet is full of distractions, with countless websites, apps and pop-ups competing for your attention. Plus, studies have shown that than its digital counterpart.

�������Ƶ: Your Partner in Magazine Printing

Just like magazines, there’s a lot of history behind �������Ƶ. Our company has been printing for over 85 years, starting with humble origins in Marceline, Missouri. Now, we’re ranked as the third-largest magazine printer in the U.S. and Canada. Our magazine printing solutions are backed by decades of experience among our highly skilled printers. If you’re looking to create a piece of magazine history that will stand the test of time, contact us today to get started.

The post The History of American Magazines appeared first on �������Ƶ.

What Makes a Magazine Profitable?

A profitable magazine is one that generates more revenue than it costs to produce and distribute. Simple, right? Well, maybe not. This leaves us with two big questions: How do you make money from a magazine, and how much does it cost to print a magazine? There are a lot of factors that go into these two questions, which means creating a profitable magazine will require careful planning and strategic decision-making. But with a for the Print Newspapers and Magazines market in 2023, there’s certainly still money to be made through print magazines.

How To Create a Profitable Magazine

Creating a profitable magazine will require you to start by figuring out your business model, which will determine how to bring in revenue. Magazines can generate revenue and ultimately turn a profit through several methods – leaving you to decide which approach you’ll take. Many magazines use a combination of revenue-generating strategies to turn a profit.

Subscriptions

Selling subscriptions is a great way to create a consistent revenue stream from your magazine. Once a customer subscribes to your magazine, they’ll need to take action to unsubscribe or choose not to renew their subscription. While the per-magazine cost of a subscription is generally lower than if a customer were to purchase a single issue, consistency is key here.

A large, active subscriber list is also a great way to appeal to potential advertisers – guaranteed readership of every single issue you release will show brands an ad in your magazine is sure to get attention.

Direct Sales

Selling copies of your magazine in storefronts, newspaper stands, airports and bookstores, to name a few, is a good way to get your magazine out into the world and increase readership. While it can be difficult to turn a profit through newsstand sales, it can certainly help build your subscriber list, making your magazine more attractive to potential advertisers.

Keep in mind: newsstands are highly competitive due to their limited space. If you want to get your magazine into storefronts, you’ll likely need to work with a publisher or distributor.  You’ll also need to create a newsstand-friendly magazine; the cover should not only be enticing but effectively communicate the theme and content contained within.

Advertising

Selling ad space in your magazine is another great way to offset production and distribution costs, pushing you further towards turning a nice profit. Potential advertisers are also looking at their bottom line, so you’ll need to prove the value of an ad in your magazine. According to Paul Bowers, publisher of , the key lies with your audience.

“Print provides a targeted reach,” says Bowers. “We’re not distributing to readers who aren’t in a position to purchase the products being sold by our advertisers. The ability to earn revenue on a print product has been quite remarkable, in my opinion. We have a niche market, and it’s all in how you sell it.”

In other words: use your market to help find potential advertisers. If you can show brands you have a curated subscriber list full of readers who are genuinely interested in their market or niche, they’ll be more likely to pay top dollar for premium ad space in your magazine. Advertisers who are particularly interested in your publication may even purchase an advertorial, an editorial-style advertisement about their product or service.

Don’t Sell Yourself Short

One of Paul’s biggest pieces of advice is to know your worth. “If you have a product that does what it’s supposed to do, you don’t discount,” says Bowers. “So many salespeople want to make the sale, (they are) so geared to doing whatever they can that they leave money on the table. Once you make a deal and discount, you can never go back to regular rates. If you build a product the way it needs to be built, people will pay for advertising.”

Content is King

All that to say: if you want to stand out to potential readers as well as advertisers, you’ll need to make sure the content of your magazine is relevant, helpful and well crafted. Performing in-depth market research can help you identify what your readers are interested in learning more about, and using that information to conduct high-quality interviews, write engaging articles and choose gorgeous photography will help ensure your magazine is a cut above the rest.

Consider Your Costs

Remember: profitability is an equation. At the end of the day, your revenue must exceed your costs to turn a profit. When taking a magazine to print, these costs break down fairly evenly between paper, manufacturing and distribution. An experienced magazine printer can help advise you on how these costs stack up, and potentially even help you save money by offering different paper options and suggesting a variety of mailing and distribution solutions.

Magazine Trends in the Digital Age

As the world becomes more digitally connected, it’s becoming clear that to remain successful, magazines must focus on evergreen content rather than timely information. Twenty years ago, readers used magazines to keep up with pop culture, entertainment and the latest trends. In 2024, this information can be published online faster than a magazine can even make it to print, let alone get distributed across the country. By the time a magazine makes it into the hands of a reader, the information inside could have been online for weeks.

To help drive and retain readership, consider focusing on timeless content; articles and features readers will want to look at multiple times. Helpful guides, recipes, design tips and unique stories are all examples of content that will remain relevant for years to come, especially when combined with gorgeous photography and excellent design.

Choose a Quality Printer

Remember: great content can still fall short if your printer isn’t up to the task. If you’re serious about creating a profitable magazine, it’s well worth investing in a high-quality printing partner. An experienced printing company will help you flesh out all the production details like paper, coating and finishing, and will ensure each issue is printed with a professional look and feel.

Create a Profitable Magazine with �������Ƶ

�������Ƶ is a family-owned printing company with over 80 years of experience. We print high-quality books, catalogs and magazines using sustainable materials and unparalleled attention to detail. Our dedicated customer service representatives are here to help you at every step of the process, and our experienced printers know how to achieve your vision from concept to print. Request a quote today to see the �������Ƶ difference in action!

The post Are Magazines Still Profitable? appeared first on �������Ƶ.

Creating a Magazine From Start to Finish

The process of creating a magazine will be faster and easier if you have a talented team by your side. However, building a magazine from the ground up by yourself is certainly possible, but it will require you to wear many hats.

It can take months to create your first magazine, especially when you’re taking the time to properly lay out and proof your product. If you try and rush the process, the quality of your magazine may suffer.

Planning

The planning stage is where you’ll set your magazine up for success. Proper planning is crucial to the execution of any publication – you’ll be hard-pressed to find any successful magazine that isn’t the result of many hours of careful planning.

During the planning stage, you’ll need to make key decisions like choosing the title and concept for your magazine and also cover topics like your desired target audience, the balance between text and imagery, your sources for content, your marketing plan and the overall tone and voice of your magazine.

Will this be a recurring publication? If so, how often will you publish? What’s the main goal behind your magazine? Once you’ve answered these questions, it’s time to begin planning the first issue of your magazine. Take the time and effort to plan unique, engaging content that aligns with the tone and purpose of your magazine. By the end of this stage, you should have content planned for each section of your first issue.

Creating Content

Remember: content doesn’t just mean the articles in your publication – it also encapsulates headlines, captions and photography. It takes multiple skill sets and lots of working hours to put together the content needed to create a magazine. A skilled editorial team will make it easier to handle all writing, editing and photography needs, but it’s certainly possible to do it yourself.

Depending on the type of magazine, this stage could involve in-depth research, conducting interviews and photography sessions. If you’re undertaking all content needs by yourself, we recommend having a very detailed plan and schedule before you write a single word or take any photographs. Once you have a plan, give yourself plenty of time to execute it – especially if this is your first publication.

Another option for creating content is hiring a freelancer. Platforms like and make it easy to connect with freelance writers, designers and photographers. And speaking of photography, don’t forget about stock photos – while it will probably be harder to find the perfect photo for your magazine layout when choosing from a library of stock photo options, it could be a viable alternative if you don’t have access to a professional photographer. You can find stock photos on , and , to name a few.

Advertisements

This stage is also when you’ll want to start reaching out to other brands and companies to sell advertising space in your magazine. Most magazines use paid advertisements to secure funding – building, printing and distributing a magazine isn’t cheap, and selling ad space is a good way to recoup some of those costs.

If you’re starting from scratch, you’ll want to put together a media kit to send to potential advertisers. It should include information about your projected audience, content and theme, ultimately painting a picture of why these brands should advertise in your magazine.

Then, compile a list of brands in your space that you think would appeal to your target audience. For example, if you’re making a fashion magazine targeted towards women in high-income brackets, your list would likely include luxury clothing and accessory brands. Once you have a list of potential brands and you’ve decided on your ad rates, begin contacting the brands on your list and sending them your media kit, offering premium ad space in a brand-new magazine.

Proofreading and Editing

Proofreading is a crucial step in the editorial process that helps ensure your final product is clean, professional, and free of grammatical mistakes and misspellings. Even if you’re working with a team of expert writers, make sure not to skip this step of the process – it’s much easier to fix a mistake before it goes to print. Free tools like can make the proofreading step much faster, and often even give recommendations to improve sentence structure and wording.

Design and Layout

Design is an important part of the process; this is where you’ll determine the visual appeal of your magazine. The trick is finding the right balance to make your magazine eye-catching while also being easy to read. Take the time to find the perfect font, and play around with the balance of images and text for a perfect layout on every page.

Your best bet for creating a magazine layout is a design program like . InDesign is full of intelligent design tools that make it easy to create and edit your layout, even if you don’t have years of experience as a designer. Just make sure to use print-friendly margin and bleed settings (⅛ inch) and export your files according to your printer’s specifications.

Work With a Professional

If you’re working by yourself, design is another part of the editorial process where you may be able to get help from professionals. offers professional editorial and design services for teams and individuals looking to print books, magazines and other publications. Their award-winning design team will help ensure a top-notch magazine that matches your vision.

Prepress

The prepress process is when you’ll work with your printer to get everything ready for print. You’ll finalize details like binding, paper finish basis weight and pagination, and you’ll get the chance to proof and approve your magazine before the final step in the printing process begins.

On the technical side, the prepress process involves creating the printing plates used to print the cover and pages of your magazine. These plates are imaged according to your digital magazine layout and then used to transfer ink onto paper. Four separate plates are created to transfer each of the four colors used in the printing process; cyan, magenta, yellow and black. These four colors align to create essentially any color on the visible spectrum – the reader’s eye blends the colors together.  If you want, look closely at a printed magazine, and on the edge between blank space and printed space, you can see the individual dots of ink.  Pretty cool, isn’t it?

A lot goes into ensuring your project is ready for print. Luckily, if you’re working with a qualified printer, they’ll be happy to help ensure you’re set up for success. “Our teams do a great job,” says Kevin Werderhausen, General Manager of the �������Ƶ – Fulton printing facility. “We give out a manual to our customers with a how-to on developing and loading files, things to watch out for, and what not to do.”

Printing

Once everything has been thoroughly reviewed, it’s time to begin printing! The pages of your magazine are typically printed using a process called web printing, where the eight plates – four above and four below – transfer the ink (in the four colors) onto a huge roll of paper, or ‘web.’ The web of paper is pulled through each component of the printing press at a breakneck pace, receiving images in each of the four standard colors, before traveling through an oven which rapidly heats the paper, quickly drying the ink.

The paper is then cut and folded into groups of pages known as signatures. These signatures, plus your covers, are all sent to the bindery to be glued or stitched together. For more detailed information about this process, read our blog article about offset printing.

Distribution

Once your magazines are off the press, the work isn’t quite done; now the challenge is getting them to their destinations. Distribution requires a good understanding of shipping methods and postage classes, and it takes a lot of work to get everything sorted and delivered on time. However, you may be able to save time and money by using a printer who also handles distribution.

Don’t Skimp on a Qualified Printer

Imagine: after putting countless hours into your magazine, you receive a copy of the final product and it’s all wrong. The colors are off, the binding is shoddy and the paper tears when you turn the pages. Make sure you take the time to properly research printing options and choose a printer with a proven track record.

Don’t leave the craftsmanship of your magazine up to chance; partner with an expert printer who knows how to get the job done right.

Print Your Next Magazine with �������Ƶ

�������Ƶ has worked in the printing industry for over 80 years, and it’s easy to see our expertise when you work with us. Our experienced printers tackle every job with unparalleled attention to detail to ensure complete customer satisfaction. Plus, our customer service representatives help facilitate seamless communication at every step of the process. If you’re ready to see the �������Ƶ difference, get started by contacting us today!

The post How Do You Make a Magazine? appeared first on �������Ƶ.