Island Packet to change print publication days, delivery in next step of digital push
We have talked often in this space over the years about how The Island Packet and Beaufort Gazette are adapting to a new digital landscape that has forever changed our business model.
Today, we lean even further into that transformation. On Sept. 30, we will transition to a 24/7 digital product with printed editions on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Also that week, your paper will start being delivered by your postal carrier, in many cases alongside your regular mail delivery.
The Wednesday and Friday papers will arrive on those days; your Sunday paper will be delivered on Saturdays. Some of you who have received the print edition for decades will be disappointed by these changes. We understand. The hard truth is we need to continue to evolve our business so the core of what we do, reporting and writing on the news and information you want most, is protected for decades to come.
You won’t be surprised to know that the vast majority of our readers and subscribers are already reading us on digital devices. Advertising has mostly gone online as well – all while the costs of printing and delivering a print product continue to escalate.
It’s the right time for this next step in our evolution.
Our electronic edition – we call it The Edition – is the best news product we offer, and it’s available seven days a week. Without space limitations and with later deadlines, each edition has dozens of pages more than the printed edition allows.
We urge you to try it and we will be here to help anyone who needs help with their digital account or with navigating The Edition. We’ll soon schedule an event where you can come and talk to someone in person.
Our staff remains strong and committed to bringing you the content you’ve come to expect from us. We have some ambitious plans to increase our watchdog coverage as well as covering the basics of public safety, government spending, the suburban aggravation that comes with the pace of growth in Beaufort and Jasper counties and much more.
If you’re already a subscriber, thank you for supporting the work we do and investing in local journalism (be sure to activate your digital access at islandpacket.com/activate).
If you aren’t a subscriber, please consider being a part of the solution. A growing community deserves a strong, independent local news source. The future of our community depends on it.
In the coming days, subscribers will receive correspondence from our customer service team regarding next steps. That team can be reached at 877-706-8100.
Robert York is the senior editor of The Island Packet and Beaufort Gazette. He can be reached at ryork@islandpacket.com.