How to Make Money With a Local Newspaper

Since the age of the Internet dawned in the 1990’s, newspapers have felt the crunch of falling profits as customers drop their subscriptions. Now, news can readily be accessed for free on computers and smartphones. Papers that are still succeeding have implemented different ways of maximizing profits in this new paradigm.

Successful newspapers are making money by utilizing the following areas:

• Raising paper prices- Although customers initially balk at the through of paying more for a paper, most newspapers understand that they can no longer charge a quarter for a daily paper. This is especially true for newspapers in smaller towns that do not have the circulation of larger newspapers. Price breaks can be made available for those who subscribe for daily or weekend delivery. 


• Online fees- The New York Times caused quite a stir across the country in 2011 by starting to charge for the ability to view online content. The idea is novel and many customers understandably do not like the idea. However, some newspapers have come to the conclusion that it makes bad business sense to give away all of their content online for no charge.


• Advertising- Although advertisements are as old as newspapers themselves, newspapers are having to rethink advertising in light of the Internet. No longer does a newspaper have to sell print advertisement, but they can now sell online advertising. They can also include ads in their online videos as well. Monetizing the online edition of a newspaper must be a priority for a newspaper to remain profitable in the current market.