The Alexander City Outlook

Internet isn’t destroying news business

For the past year there has been a lot of talk in the media about the impending demise of the newspaper industry. Most of this discussion has centered on how newspapers are struggling in a difficult economy.

Just like any other business, newspapers are facing economic conditions that are affecting revenue and profitability. However, the current business climate for newspapers, given enough time, will certainly get better as the economy improves.

There is another aspect of this discussion about the newspaper industry that is more interesting than decreased revenue and shrinking profitability margins. Some observers are claiming newspapers are struggling because of new and more efficient ways of distributing information to the public. Digital media that is accessible through computers and cell phones is transforming the way we access information.

Without a doubt, the Internet allows the public to seek out news and other information at a moments notice. It is quick and efficient.

Nevertheless, this technology is not destroying the newspaper industry, especially on the local level. More and more, community newspapers are embracing the Web as another tool to reach their readers with information that is timely and important to their everyday lives.

In fact, newspaper readership has increased over the past few years. If you combine the circulation of the print edition with the average daily visitors to an affiliated Web site, most local papers have seen their readership double over the past few years.

This does not mean the local print edition will soon be replaced by a digital edition transmitted to computers and smart phones via the Internet. What it does mean is community papers are offering multiple ways of accessing local information to local readers.

Unquestionably, community newspapers are the dominant source for local news. No other media comes close to providing the comprehensive coverage of local events that people need.

This is certainly true here in Tallapoosa County. Tallapoosa Publishers, which publishes The Alexander City Outlook, The Dadeville Record and Lake magazine, is uniquely positioned to provide our readers with local news no other media can provide.

This is great news for advertisers interested in getting their products or services noticed in Tallapoosa County. Because we are the dominant source for local information in our community, advertisers can be sure their message will reach folks that want and need what they have to offer.

Plus, TPI’s ability to offer advertisers multiple avenues to promote their business through our print publications and websites provides a number of options that can be tailored to fit individual needs. The fact is the marketplace is changing and TPI is positioned to help businesses survive and thrive during this transition.

TPI will continue to be the dominant source of news and information for Tallapoosa County. The print editions of the Outlook and Record will deliver local editorial content that is interesting and relevant to our community while providing a platform for advertising messages that are a destination for consumers and not a distraction.

Additionally, Lake magazine and all of our affiliated Web sites provide the flexibility demanded by readers and advertisers in this changing market. If you’re looking to stay current on what’s going on or wanting to promote your business, we can help

So, pick up a copy of one of our publications or check us out on the Web at www.alexcityoutlook.com. If you have a comment or simply would like to ask a question about what we do, please feel free to give me a call at 234-4281. I look forward to hearing from you.