Intelligence Squared Business Weekly: The Future of publishing
Jan 17, 2022
Zillah Byng-Thorne, CEO of Future, the UK’s largest magazine publisher, shares her insights on navigating the ever-changing landscape of the publishing industry. She discusses innovative strategies to adapt to digital demands while maintaining a passion for print. The conversation touches on the shift towards subscription models, the balancing act between quality content and profitability, and the importance of integrating team culture after COVID-19. With valuable perspectives on audience engagement, Byng-Thorne highlights the future of magazines in a competitive market.
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Early publishing experience
- Zillah Byng-Thorne, CEO of Future, ran her school newspaper.
- She's always enjoyed print media, from Runner's World to Just 17.
Reframing the Business
- Ask "stupid" questions to challenge assumptions.
- Prioritize audience needs over distribution models when reinventing a business.
Balancing Niche and Scale
- Future balances niche expertise with broad market reach.
- They prioritize content first and brand second, aiming to lead in every vertical.