When I reported on the Pensacola News Journal’s implementation of a paywall—meaning their websites would no longer be free, I wrote that their print subscriptions would go up, too. Some PNJ officials denied it, but it now appears that I was correct.
In his letter to print subscribers, PNJ publisher Kevin Doyle blames the cost increase on the “major investment in technology and to sustain and enhance the unique local content.”
While INweekly is faced with similar costs increases as Gannett, the owner of the PNJ, we plan to keep our price the same –FREE.
Here is a letter from PNJ publisher Kevin Doyle that is posted on pnj.com:
PNJ Subscribers:
Over the next several days, News Journal subscribers will receive a letter from me announcing details of our new Full Access Subscription Model.
The letter will explain your subscription options plus a mention of a slight increase in your monthly bill. Over the past four years, during the toughest economic climate in American history, we have been able to maintain our current pricing.
However, with a major investment in technology and to sustain and enhance the unique local content you expect, an increase is inevitable.
We are committed to being the No. 1 news source for all local news and a watchdog for our community.
As one of downtownâs largest employers, we are proud to have you as a customer.
Beginning Monday, feel free to contact us at 1-877-424-0028 or 435-8500 if you have any
questions.
Sincerely,
Kevin Doyle
President and Publisher
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My predictions:
1. When the News Journal quits printing on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, the subscription rates will not be reduced.
2. Readers will complain, but they will pay for the online version of the daily.
3. Special features like the bikini galleries will become extra charges.
4. INweekly will expand to cover the loss in real news reporting and coverage.