News publishers are becoming more transparent and direct about their subscription products and practices in an attempt to boost their credibility with audiences.
Reports of the subscription model’s demise are greatly exaggerated
Many news publishers remain firmly committed to subscription products even as some of their competitors struggle to make them work.
Publishers adapt as scrutiny of subscription cancellation practices mounts
Publishers are responding as it becomes clear that trapping consumers in unwanted subscriptions will not prove a viable long-term strategy.
The New York Times grew digital subscription revenue nearly 13% in 2023
The company added 300,000 paid digital subscribers in the fourth quarter, which is more than it added during any quarter for the previous year.
An eventful news cycle could fuel subscription growth in 2024
A busy news cycle presents an opportunity to reach and engage new paying subscribers and deepen relationships with existing ones.
Subscription Publishing Briefing: January 22
Google updates cause further headaches for publishers, and Bloomberg Media reached 500,000 subscriptions.
Paywalled content is deemed higher quality and more trustworthy
Consumers believe publishers’ content is generally higher quality and more trustworthy when they have to pay to access it, new research finds.
Subscription themes that shaped 2023
Approaches evolved and matured as subscriptions became a more central part of publishers’ audience offerings and business models.
Appetite for ad-free publisher subscriptions could be growing
Consumers say their distaste for advertising within publishers’ subscription products is growing, suggesting appetites for ad-free experiences could be growing too.
Introductory discounts drive subscription purchases, consumers say
73% of consumers say they’re more likely to subscribe to digital publications when offered introductory discounts.