Posted by One Newspaper Bucks the Trend by Expanding into New Market
While many traditional newspapers have struggled to say the least – going digital or closing their venerable doors – one publication is expanding its print operations from one end of the country to the other.
The New York Post, originated by none other than founding father Alexander Hamilton all the way back in 1801, has been sharing stories with Americans for more than 200 years. The tabloid-style newspaper will launch “The California Post” early next year with a seven-day a week print edition – a rarity in today’s media world – along with a website, social media accounts, as well as video and audio pieces.
From the Big Apple to the Golden State, the publication will represent another addition to the Rupert Murdoch media empire – a bold move in the current journalism landscape. Over 3,200 newspapers have closed across the country since 2005, with readers’ viewing habits switching to digital sources, and newspaper advertising largely sidelined.
Keith Poole, editor-in-chief of the New York Post, says the time and market is right in California for their publication. “This is the next manifestation of our national brand,” he expressed. “California is the most populous state in the country, and is the epicenter of entertainment, the AI revolution and advanced manufacturing — not to mention a sports powerhouse. Yet many stories are not being told, and many viewpoints are not being represented.”
The paper will continue its brash, conservative-leaning style of reporting in its west coast operations. “While it’s true the media landscape is challenging,” said a statement from the New York Post Media Group, “the New York Post has been finding success through its unique voice, editorial lens and quality coverage. That same formula is tailor-made for California.”
The Golden State has a population of almost 40 million, where hundreds of newspapers, including dailies around LA and other major cities are still in operation. But the angel city hasn’t had a tabloid in recent memory dedicated to local and regional issues.
A sister publication of the Wall Street Journal, the Post is owned by parent company News Corp, whose CEO is optimistic about its future on the west coast. “Los Angeles and California surely need a daily dose of The Post as an antidote to the jaundiced, jaded journalism that has sadly proliferated,” he said. “We are at a pivotal moment for the city and the state, and there is no doubt that The Post will play a crucial role in engaging and enlightening readers, who are starved of serious reporting and puckish wit.”
Will a westward expansion and puckish wit be enough to lead the historic publication into another century? Read more here and here.