A Meeting of Minds and Goals

By Jerry Lynch, president, IPDA

This issue of Newsstand Forum is dedicated entirely to coverage of the 2008 Retail Conference that took place earlier this week, sponsored by Magazine Publishers of America and IPDA.

As retailers, publishers, national distributors and wholesalers expressed their viewpoints during the event, it was clear that there is unanimous agreement about our ultimate goals and a shared commitment to reaching these expediently.

Grocery Super Study: Magazines, Books Yield
Significant GM Profit

Willard Bishop study details category stats, highlights areas of opportunity.

New Initiative Synthesizes Category Data

"One Voice" initiative aims to enhance communications between retailers and publishers/distributors.

Channel Partners Explore Magazines' Future

Why the Web is an ally in building retail sales, partners' views on channel restructuring initiatives, and more.

Compelling Consumer Experience at Retail Even More Critical in a Recession

Consumers will continue to spend time and money at retailers that offer an authentic experience and tailored offerings, according to Yankelovich research.

WSL Study Provides Profile of Magazine Buyers' Retail Behavior

Magazine buyers are less price-sensitive, shop many more retail channels than overall consumers, finds WSL Strategic Retail. 

Industry Tackling Sustainability Issues

Conference attendees got an update on current initiatives and next steps.

Engaging the LOHAS Consumer

Retailers and publishers must understand and meet the expectations of influential consumers with "Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability."

Growing Book Sales Via Publicity, Brand Exposure

Simon & Schuster and MTV-Nickelodeon execs share successful strategies.

Taking the "Mystery" Out of Publisher and Retailer Practices

Panels of publishing executives and former retailers shed light on the reasons behind practices that can puzzle their channel partners.