Task 5 - Magazine distribution methods part (b)

There are many methods used by the media industry to distribute magazines. The most successful companies use a range of distribution methods to reach a larger audience. The publisher is the company that publishes the magazine, and they can do so using a variety of methods.

One method that is quite modern and has become popular is online publishing. They are easy to access and enable companies to reach larger audiences, which increases their success. There are different distribution methods under the online branch such as E-Zines. These are online  magazines, which the audience can interact with by turning pages via the mouse and sometimes even watching videos and social networking links in the article. This form of interaction causes readers to be more interested in the articles given as they can actually watch the videos mentioned and more. Another form used to distribute and encourage the viewing of magazines are apps on smartphones and tablets. Some examples of magazines that have an app are Hello magazine, OK magazine and Elle magazine.This extends the audience of the magazine because readers can continue their experience outside of the actual magazine. They can learn more and interact, which keeps them interested.

Another form of distribution is postal subscription. Readers usually subscribe to receive a magazine weekly or monthly. This method is favourable because the publisher benefits, as the sale is generated and no copies can be wasted.

  

A more traditional method is sale or return. This method has drawbacks as, if less copies are sold than placed on the shelf- those extra copies are thrown  away or returned to the publisher. This results in a loss of income. Also, printing costs can be quite expensive as well as the competitive nature of trying ton get their magazines placed at eye-level.

Direct distribution is also used to generate publicity and popularity. This is where the magazine is placed directly into the consumer's hands, which makes the method effective. Directly distributed magazines are free, so the publisher has to have an abundance of adverts to generate income. One drawback of direct distribution is that the magazine is distributed to a smaller audience.

Music magazines use social networking to increase their success. For example, Vibe magazine has an official Facebook page, where they advertise news related to music, such as new singles and videos of gigs. They also advertise their own regular issues on the Facebook page.

A link to Vibe's Facebook page : https://www.facebook.com/vibe

Music magazines such as Kerrang also make use of twitter, TV and radio. They have their own radio station, where they play rock music and advertise their magazine. They also have a twitter page to advertise their brand, and by using this social network they can use twitter trends to their advantage.