In 2024, The Atlantic, a renowned 167-year-old magazine, is bucking the trend of many magazines and newspapers by increasing the number of issues it prints. Previously publishing 10 issues per year, the magazine is returning to a monthly publication schedule for the first time since 2002, showing a commitment to quality journalism and a beautifully designed magazine. Editor-in-chief Jeffrey Goldberg attributes this decision to the outstanding journalism produced by the team as well as the continued appeal of a well-produced print magazine in a world inundated with digital content.
Owned by billionaire Laurene Powell Jobs, The Atlantic has returned to profitability and surpassed one million subscriptions. Nearly half of these subscribers receive both the print and digital editions, indicating a strong reader base that appreciates the magazine in print form. Goldberg emphasizes the timeless qualities of print publications, noting that they offer a sense of stability and tranquility in a world filled with constantly demanding screens. The magazine’s expansion to a monthly print schedule reflects a desire to connect with readers who still value the print medium for intellectual and aesthetic pleasure.
In a time when news organizations are struggling with declining business models and cutbacks, The Atlantic’s expansion is a bold move that defies conventional wisdom. While many organizations are racing to develop new subscription products to survive, The Atlantic is doubling down on its commitment to growth and innovation in order to outpace the competition. Goldberg stresses the importance of staying ahead in an unforgiving industry and has implemented expansions to the reporting staff, particularly in areas such as health coverage and national defense, technology, and global conflict.
The decision to increase the print cycle is not just about appealing to subscribers; it also benefits the magazine’s writers, many of whom still value the prestige of being published in print. The expansion of reporting staff and coverage areas reflects Goldberg’s vision for The Atlantic to become the premier destination for readers seeking education and illumination in various subjects. This move opens up new opportunities for writers and journalists while solidifying The Atlantic’s position as a leading publication in the industry.
Overall, The Atlantic’s decision to increase its print publication frequency in 2024 is a strategic move that showcases its confidence in the enduring power of print media. By acknowledging the value of print in a digital age and expanding its reach through monthly issues, The Atlantic is positioning itself for continued success and growth in a challenging industry. Despite the current challenges facing news organizations, The Atlantic’s bold decision reflects a commitment to excellence, innovation, and meeting the evolving needs of its readers and writers.
