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| << December13, 2006 - Ed hearts Sassy, too |
December15, 2006 - Ed's in a festive mood... >> |
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******* British publisher Emap PLC pulled the plug on its last American magazine, FHM, after burning through about $35 million during its nearly seven years of existence. "We're a single-title publisher in the American market, which is very difficult," said David Pullan, managing director of FHM US. The magazine's paid and verified circulation, said to be 1.25 million, was off by 3.2 percent in the first half of 2006 compared to a year ago, according to the Audit Bureau of Circulations. Ad pages eroded dramatically through the first 11 months of the year, plunging 19.7 percent to 653 compared to a year ago, according to Publishers Information Bureau which tracks the industry. Mediaweek Monitor said its full-year decline was 21.4 percent. Pullan said the magazine actually posted its first profit in 2005 but then the situation unraveled this year with no signs of improvement. "We've seen significant declines, about 11 percent across the category, and we didn't see it improving," said Pullan. The entire lad magazine category has been slumping in the past year. Maxim, Stuff and music magazine Blender were put on the block earlier this year but the "for sale" sign was apparently taken off when the company couldn't fetch its price. Felix Dennis, reached over the Thanksgiving weekend had told The Post, "Everything is always for sale, but nobody ponied up."
2. Fashion Week Daily
Young lads will have to look elsewhere for their babes-in-bikinis fix now that FHM (For Him Magazine) has gone belly up. The British-based title was first launched in the U.S. in 1999 by Emap Consumer Media, and was expected to be the starter title for a greater expansion of Emap brands into the U.S. According to Emap consumer media CEO Paul Keenan, ???The magazine has battled to establish a profitable presence in a hugely challenging and competitive market. With conditions in the U.S. worsening, we have decided to focus our resources elsewhere on faster growth platforms.??? The close could mark the end for Emap??™s U.S. expansion, whose previous setbacks including the acquisition of Peterson Publishing in 1998 for $1.5 billion and its eventual sale to Primedia in 2001 for a mere $500 million. FHM tried valiantly to compete with Maxim, but never managed to break out of its second fiddle status. FHM??™s total paid and verified circulation fell 3.2 percent to 1.25 million in the first half of this year, compared to Maxim??™s, which rose 1.9 percent to 2.58 million in the same period. Known for its scantily clad spreads, the mag had a knack for turning lesser known bombshells like Vida Guerra??”a onetime New Jersey loan officer??”into red hot cover girls (Guerra gained fame after she posed in a FHM lingerie shoot in 2002). March 2007 will be its final print issue, though the existing website will remain active. ???The decision is consistent with the group??™s strategy of focusing resources on faster growth platforms and has been taken in light of the difficult trading conditions in the U.S. market,??? according to a statement released by the company, which sold its other U.S. titles to Primedia in 2001. ???The U.S. online site, which forms an important part of the brand??™s ongoing and increasing international presence, will continue to operate.???
3. Fashion Week Daily
We always knew that fashion was the most important thing in the world, and Anna Wintour, who granted Barbara Walters a rare one-on-one interview that was televised to millions of households Tuesday night as part of Walters??™ annual ???Most Fascinating People of 2006,??? is a true champion of that fact. To hear the editor-in-chief of Vogue put it, the mood of the country can be felt??”at least subtly??”through the pages of her magazine, which, importantly, is the most profitable title in its category. Surrounded by blooming florals??”with not one shot of her re-arranged desk in sight??”here, a blow-by-blow of Walters??™ chat with Wintour. Barbara Walters introducing Anna: ???She could have been on our list most any year, but this year was tailor-made for her, since she was reputedly the inspiration for the hit film, The Devil Wears Prada. But whether it??™s 2006 or any other year, fashion editor Anna Wintour seems always in Vogue." Barbara??™s voiceover: ???In the world of fashion, everything changes, except for Anna Wintour and her power. For two decades, 57-year-old Anna Wintour has reigned over the Vogue magazine empire, making it the most profitable magazine of its kind, and developing three new magazines: Teen Vogue, Men??™s Vogue, and Vogue Living.??? MORE ONLINE
4. WWD
So much for holiday cheer. Anxiety is building within the halls of Time Inc. as employees await the results of the evaluation by those Scrooges over at McKinsey & Co. as to how the publisher can run its magazine business more efficiently. As WWD reported in October, the high-priced bean counters have been evaluating the publishing company for several weeks in order to find, according to a spokeswoman, "what could be reengineered to free up investment dollars for future growth and how to further integrate online and print editorial operations." Shorthand: where should Time Inc. cut to free up money to invest in the Web? And how many jobs will be let go and when? Chatter among those close to Time Inc. is that the long-bloated production and art departments across various titles are areas where consolidation could occur, while Web and print operations could share editors to trim head count. At least one magazine has found a way to make some of the reporting process more efficient ??” People recently changed its normally siloed structure where fact-checkers verified information in each story written by reporters or writers to one where some of the stories in the magazine will be reported, written and fact checked by the same person, according to a spokeswoman. And in a great way to kick off the New Year, Time Inc. chief executive officer Ann Moore has said job cuts will likely be announced in January. Sources close to the company said that when the latest round of cuts is unveiled, as many as 20 staffers at each title could be asked to leave, primarily on the edit and production sides. Time Inc. declined to comment on any planned job eliminations.
5. WWD
Yet another magazine closes its doors. Emap folded men's monthly FHM on Wednesday after seven years, with its March issue its last. Though the U.S. version will fold, the magazine's Web site, fhmus.com, and FHM's U.K. edition and 30 other international versions will continue to publish. "Trading conditions in the U.S. market have deteriorated over the past 12 months and we do not expect an improvement in the near term," said Paul Keenan, chief executive officer, in a statement. About 47 staffers will lose their jobs as a result of the closure. Though FHM is the largest men's magazine in the U.K., outselling its rival Maxim, it never achieved that status in the U.S. ??” one reason being that it took too long to get here and the 2.5 million circulation Maxim was first to export the lad mag concept to the States. For the first half of 2006, FHM's circulation fell 3.2 percent to 1.3 million; newsstand sales fell 6.6 percent. But aside from falling numbers, the magazine's covers this fall were repeatedly covered up because of their overly sexual nature, which doesn't help increase newsstand presence. As for ads, pages for all of 2006 fell 21.4 percent to 735 pages, or 200 fewer than last year. (Maxim carried 941 ad pages during the same period, a decline of 5.4 percent from last year.) One source close to FHM said things had gotten so bleak that it discounted ad page rates to the point that one advertiser paid around $30,000 for a back cover placement. The open page rate for a four color full page ad is $80,000. While British magazine publishers generate most of their revenues from newsstands sales, which allows some wiggle room when advertising declines, the U.S. model is based on advertising sales, which makes it hard to sustain a magazine with a shrinking ad base. "The distribution and advertising environment [in the U.S.] are making it very difficult for us to operate profitably in this market," said an Emap U.K. spokeswoman via an e-mailed statement. "It was prudent to suspend the title now, rather than face the prospect of operating at a loss." FHM's online business and WGSN.com, the online information site for the retail industry, which has a New York office, will be Emap's remaining operations in America.
6. WWD
In the digital age, People and Hello magazines are discovering firsthand that exclusivity is only in the eye of the beholder. On Tuesday, photos of Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt's family, including their highly sought-after offspring Shiloh Nouvel Jolie-Pitt, appeared on Hello's Web Site, beneath the phrase "world exclusive." On Wednesday, People managing editor Larry Hackett appeared on the "Today" show, touting "exclusive" photos of the famous family. People's cover, which includes a Brangelina family photo, was posted on People.com on Wednesday, but the magazine doesn't hit newsstands nationwide until Friday. Peter Orlowsky, vice president of sales for Getty Images in North America, said the firm sent out a package of 37 photos to Hello and People and one source claimed People shelled out $200,000 ??” People and Orlowsky declined to comment and Hello had no comment. Orlowsky added that each magazine was given the freedom to determine how many photos would be used. However, he said that although Hello was the first to post the pictures, it incorrectly claimed the distinction of "world exclusive." People secured the North American rights and Hello secured exclusivity in the U.K. The photo frenzy apparently began on Dec. 7, when Trevor Neilson, partner of the Endeavor Group, who runs its global philanthropy practice, sent out an e-mail to interested publications, asking that those "who purchase these photos will use them in a way that also draws attention to the needs of the Cambodian people." MORE ONLINE
7. WWD
On last year's "Miss Seventeen," the MTV show in which contestants vied for the approval of then-editor Atoosa Rubenstein in hopes of scoring an internship, one contestant said of another that for her, "meeting Atoosa was like meeting Jesus." Well, when MTV's similarly conceived "I'm With Rolling Stone" premieres on Jan. 7, viewers will have a chance to see if Rolling Stone founder and editor Jann Wenner is subjected to the same kind of adulation. Judging from the interviews with the six contestants posted Wednesday on Rolling Stone's Web site and excerpted in the upcoming issue, that seems unlikely. Upon recalling how she heard about getting on the show, 26-year-old Tika Milan says, "Jann Wenner calls, and I didn't know who he was. My friend was like, 'Some guy named Han just called you.' So I had no idea who this guy was. And he goes, 'Yo, congratulations. We picked you! Can't wait to meet you!'" Twenty-six year-old Russell Morse confesses, somewhat incoherently, to being underwhelmed by the Rolling Stone offices: "I guess I had this romantic idea in my head of people under their desks shooting heroin in their eyeballs, like, 'Whoa they must be on a deadline.' Which is not very realistic 'cause they actually manage to put out a magazine every two weeks. I got in there, like, 'Man, it's looking like Enron in here.' But it's a newsroom like any other newsroom." He's crystal clear on one thing: "I guess at a certain point, what would make me a good Rolling Stone employee would not make me a good subject of a television show."
8. WWD
Real Simple editor Kristin van Ogtrop is filling some of the gaps in her masthead. New editor at large Kendell Cronstrom won't have far to go from his previous post as special projects editor at fellow Time Inc. title In Style; he's also been executive editor of Elle D?©cor. Lori Powell will start as the food director in January, having been poached from Ladies' Home Journal, where she was food and entertaining director. From within, Suzanne Rust has been promoted to associate editor, Katie Priester has moved up to be senior associate photo editor, and Daisy Cajas has been named assistant photo editor. Van Ogtrop has yet to appoint a new features editor and a number-two food editor, after Riza Cruz decamped for Vogue and Renee Schettler left for Martha Stewart Living.
9. Advertising Age
Redbook is taking a seven-figure investment from Hearst Magazines to adopt heavier paper stock and a larger size, in a move largely intended to amplify all the best things about reading magazines. The outlay by Hearst is striking for a few reasons, not least that the company closed two magazines this year and is directing tons of investment toward its online efforts. It helps that the past two years have been Redbook's two best by revenue, said Michael A. Clinton, Hearst's exec VP-chief marketing officer and publishing director. Ad pages at Redbook from January through November increased to 1,400.7, up 2.9% over the equivalent period in 2005, according to the Publishers Information Bureau. MORE ONLINE
************ Jobs ...that PC Mag seeks exceptional Reviews Editor to join its Hardware team in NYC. Candidate should have editing and writing experience, preferably in technology. The Review Editor will assist the team in every aspect; writing articles and e-newsletters, working with freelancers and product vendors, line editing reviews, and shaping copy to fit both print and online formats. At least 2 years of technology editing experience is required. Send cover letter and resume to opportunities@ziffdavis.com referencing PRE-DK in the subject line of the message. ...that DailyCandy may be looking for a Seattle editor. Do NOT mention Ed. ...that HOME Ft. Lauderdale and HOME Miami magazines (editorial offices are in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida) are looking for an experienced, multitasking, driven and creative art director to oversee the pulling together and publication of these two monthly magazines. Serious inquiries only. Please send resumes and online portfolios to Sheri Bass at sheri.bass@worldpub.net, (do NOT mention Ed) or John O'Connor at joconnor@homeftl.com, (OK to mention Ed). ...that Golf Digest is looking for an editorial assistant to handle a variety of projects for the magazine's Resource Center in Wilton, Connecticut. The ideal candidate will be motivated, enthusiastic and work well in a team environment. Responsibilities include researching photo requests for editorial and art staff, handling requests from readers and employees for research and article copies, logging new books, magazine issues and programs and working with the Resource Center Editor in organizing and upgrading existing files and systems. Therefore, must have experience in research as well as a background in library science. Ideal candidate will also have knowledge of the game of golf. This is a great opportunity for an entry level candidate to join a great organization and make a significant impact on a national consumer magazine. Contact is Susie GoldSmith, recruiter@golfdigest.com. ...that New Jersey Bride, a quarterly upscale bridal publication has an opportunity for a managing editor. The magazine covers designer wedding fashion, floral and event decor trends, cakes, travel, and more. Qualified candidates must have a minimum of 3 solid years in a publishing/managing editor role. Ideal candidates must be proficient in Word and InDesign. Applicants must be detailed-oriented, extremely organized and able to meet deadlines. Must have atleast 2 years of experience assigning and editing full-length articles. Should be capable of editing and rewriting atleast 2500 words, whether it's a honeymoon feature or a story on shower trends. Tasks will include conceptualizing, assigning, writing and editing stories, as well as managing freelance writers. Will need to work closely with in-house editorial and production team. Must know how to put book together at close. Excellent communication skills and a team player mentality are essential. May be freelance opportunity to work remotely as well as full time. Degree in Journalism or English preferred. Email resume, work samples and salary history to Gina LaMorte, glamorte@newjerseybride.com. (OK to mention Ed) Internships ...that PopularMechanics.com is looking for two PAID editorial interns to join its ever-expanding web team for the spring semester. These are not busy-work jobs: You will be writing science, technology, automotive and home/lifestyle pieces for an audience of 1.4 unique visitors monthly at a ground-breaking, highly visible online magazine. Duties for both spots include daily round-ups and reactions to national news—media savvy and strong reporting chops are a must, in addition to a well-developed understanding of the modern state of the internet. Automotive or technology background is preferred. Basic HTML and online publishing skills are a plus, but not required. This is not your grandfather's magazine (although he'd love it): You'll be part of a young, talented staff (in a spiffy, new building), taking part in major online decisions at a time when the rest of print media is just waking up to the web. Both positions start in early January and run through May, with three to four days per week preferred at $7/hour. Please send resume, cover letter and clips to bchertoff@hearst.com. No phone calls, please! (OK to mention Ed). ...that Child is looking for editorial interns. Undergraduates and graduates interested in women's lifestyle topics including parenting, pregnancy, entertainment, health, child development and fashion are welcome to apply. Intern responsibilities include much more than the usual administrative stuff and you will work closely with the article editors. Background research, factchecking and fulfilling reader requests are a large part of the position. You may also get to write for child.com and attend press events. The internship is only for college credit, but it's a great learning experience and huge resume builder for students pursuing a career in magazine editorial. We would love to hear from you! Please send resumes to loren.chidoni@meredith.com. ...that Child magazine also has a spring internship opening for a student interested in being exposed to all aspects of the magazine publishing business, from advertising and editorial planning to contracts and budgets. The intern will work closely with the managing editor and will have the opportunity to contribute in a variety of ways. It's an invaluable experience for someone pursuing a career in publishing to explore new areas and fine-tune your interests. Please send resumes to loren.chidoni@meredith.com. ...that GENRE is looking for unpaid spring editorial interns to work 10-15 hours per week in their New York City office. It's a great opportunity to work with a small editorial team, in a real hands-on magazine job. You will get bylines in a national magazine--guaranteed. We write about anything and everything as it pertains to gay men--music, film, television, books, fashion, travel, gossip, health, cars, fitness, food and wine, you name it. Email Chris Ciompi, cciompi@genremagazine.com. ...that Harper's Bazaar is looking for for a sharp, enthusiastic intern, available 2-3 full days/week, for the spring semester. The internship is in the editorial department, and is for credit only. The ideal candidate will have previous internship experience, a great attitude, an eye for details and superb organizational skills. Please send resumes to Neha Gandhi, ngandhi@hearst.com. Put Spring Internship in the subject line and keep your cover email brief. IF YOU DO NOT MEET ALL CRITERIA, PLS DO NOT APPLY. (OK to mention Ed) ...that the fashion/accessories department at W Magazine is still looking for motivated and enthusiastic spring (January-May) interns. Must be extremely detail oriented and organized. This is a great opportunity to work at a prominent fashion publication, learn more about how a magazine operates and get a first-hand look at what goes into the preparation of a photo shoot. Candidates must be a current sophomore, junior or senior in college. As this internship is unpaid, it must be for school credit or be school authorized. Interns will be responsible for assisting with the daily needs of the accessories team; the checking-in and returning of inventory, organization of the accessories closet, updating of look books and boards as well as other misc. needs. (Occasionally even assisting on a photo shoot!) Hours are typically 10-7, however candidates must be able to work later as needed. Openings are available immediately and interviewing will begin tomorrow (12/15). As such, those interested should send a resume and cover letter to Kathryn Typaldos (Kathryn_typaldos@condenast.com) ASAP. Please state immediately in your cover letter your availability, when you would be able to start and if you are available for an interview tomorrow, (12/15) or when you are available for an interview next week. Candidates must be available a minimum of three days a week. Preference will be given to those able to work more, as well as to those candidates who are available to start sooner rather than later. No phone calls please. (OK to mention Ed)
********* Whisper jobs or internships to share? Send 'em to whispers@ed2010.com. Ed'll keep it anonymous for you. Blogalicious! Catch up with Ed's Guy on the Hunt at http://ed2010.blogspot.com. Ed has message boards, yo. How to unsubscribe from this newsletter: How to subscribe: BTW, Ed doesn't endorse the advertisement you see below. It's just what happens when you use a free e-newsletter service. |
| << December13, 2006 - Ed hearts Sassy, too |
December15, 2006 - Ed's in a festive mood... >> |
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