The news was received with heavy hearts: Reader’s Digest, a widely read and respected publication, has announced the closure of its United Kingdom edition after 86 years.
The magazine’s Editor-in-Chief, Eva Mackevic, recently shared the news on LinkedIn. In her post, she shared that it had been a “privilege and joy to contribute to this iconic publication for nearly eight years, and to lead its talented team for the last six.”
“After 86 wonderful years, I am very sad to share that Reader’s Digest UK has come to an end. It has been my privilege and joy to contribute to this iconic publication for nearly eight years, leading its talented team for the last six,” the post read. “Unfortunately, the company just couldn’t withstand the financial pressures of today’s unforgiving magazine publishing landscape and has ceased to trade.”
She also extended “heartfelt gratitude” to all the “incredible” colleagues, writers, PRs, and brands that collaborated with the magazine over the years.
Reader’s Digest was once a trailblazer in the publishing industry, pioneering direct marketing strategies that set the benchmark. Through targeted mail campaigns and enticing sweepstakes, it established a niche that attracted millions of readers. At its zenith, the magazine’s circulation surpassed two million in the UK alone. However, those days of glory are now distant memories. Recently, the publication’s circulation dwindled to under 200,000 copies, signaling a significant decline in reader engagement and subscription revenue.
This decline speaks volumes. It wasn’t just the digital revolution that left Reader’s Digest behind; it was the magazine’s failure to keep pace with the swift changes in consumer preferences and the media landscape. The digital age requires agility and a readiness to quickly adapt strategies, qualities that Reader’s Digest, burdened by traditional methods and legacy issues—including a significant pension deficit—struggled to exhibit.
The announcement of Reader’s Digest’s closure after 86 years marks more than the end of a magazine; it’s a stark illustration of what can occur when companies do not adapt quickly enough in an ever-changing world. The closure of this once pioneering publication highlights a vital lesson for all businesses: adapt swiftly or face obsolescence.
The post attracted significant attention and admiration from readers worldwide.
“I read your message about the end of the prestigious and historical Reader’s Digest. It is painful news for journalism. Keep up your excellent journalistic work with the same integrity and honesty. Stay blessed,” one user commented.
Another user remarked, “Sad to hear that. I’ve enjoyed its spread of features. All the best to all staff affected.”
“You were phenomenal! To bigger, brighter things,” added another.