Australian newspaper and magazine publishers have had access to a newsagency system over the decades that helped support a thriving publishing industry. While the move to digital has changed the way the newsagency operates, there is vigorous debate about how much that retail channel has declined. ABC News published an item yesterday under the heading “Newsagencies in decline as demand for online content outstrips print media”.
The feature profiled the Mansfield newsagency and the owner’s attempt to find a buyer. Owner Frank Livingstone told the ABC the Mansfield newsagency has been on the market for two years but hasn’t had any takers. “We haven’t been able to sell it and so we’ve just decided that when our lease is up we have no option but to close it down.
” The feature notes when the Livingstones leave, Mansfield won’t have a newsagency anymore. Livingstone added the demand for online content and news has affected the industry. “The digital side of it has greatly reduced our circulation,” he said.
“You know, like holiday weekends years ago, we would order 2,000 newspapers. We’re down to about 350–400 at the moment.” The ABC also speaks to an industry analyst from IBISWorld: “Over the past five years, about 300 newsagents in net terms have left the industry,” Andrew Ledovskikh said.
He explained newsagencies have diversified by offering lottery sales, gifts, collectibles, and convenience products. But gambling and lottery tickets have now al.