The future and fate of local media

Earlier this week the Canadian journalism landscape was rocked. A deal between media giants Torstar and Postmedia saw a deal to swap a total of 37 community newspapers and four free commuter papers.

And almost before the ink was dry, most of those newly acquired publications that were located in regions where they compete with existing papers were shuttered forever.

Close to 300 people lost their jobs.

And it appears it is not just the newspaper business that is in a state of constant contraction. TV and radio have also been suffering cut-backs, layoffs and work reductions. It seems every facet of the industry is shrinking.

It’s not that there’s a lack of content – in fact these days media outlets are supplying more and more information in an almost instantaneous matter.

So why is this industry that is so in-demand always in a state of reduction?

Is it the internet? Is it a matter of debt and costs to operate?

Do people want their news but refuse to pay for it?

It’s not an easy story to explain. And that’s where the experts from Cambrian can help.

David Kilgour is a professor in public relations at Cambrian College with extensive experience in print media and advertising David brings extensive knowledge of the media holding senior roles in large Canadian dailies for over 15 years. He has served as Publisher and Director of Advertising for major dailies such as the Sudbury Star, North Bay Nugget and Guelph Mercury. Simply click on David’s icon to arrange an interview.

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