Bulletin stays free

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 4, Issue 39, 17 March 1987, Page 1

Bulletin stays free

Our earlier decision to ask readers to pay for their weekly copy of the Waimarino Bulletin has been reversed. A decision to begin charging for the Bulletin largely arose through a 42% increase in the number of papers we have been printing over the last two years. We have not been able to ask our advertisers to face advertising rate hikes of a level to cover the increased costs. We originally felt that the best solution was to ask readers to purchase their copies. Our decision not to proceed with a paid circulation is based on two important events. Firstly, as part of our subscription saies drive we were able to identify areas of waste that had crept into our distribution system. This means we have now seen ways that we can cut our print run and save money yet still maintain 100% coverage of our region so that we do not affect in any way the value of our circulation to our advertisers. Secondly, a number of businessmen who advertise in the Bulletin have approached us expressing concern at the possible cutback of coverage if the Bulletin went on to paid circulation. Every single one of those businessmen stated that they would rather pay more for their advertising and ensure 100% coverage

of our circulation area rather than have the same advertising rates and achieve, say, 75% coverage with paid circulation. On a social level we at the Bulletin were concerned that some sectors of our community are on low or fixed incomes. pensioners for example. We were concerned that these people would not be able to enjoy what we hope is an important and valued means of communication in this region. We are conscious of the role that this newspaper plays in helping inform, stimulate and entertain every member of the greater Waimarino community. With some changes in our distribution methods to avoid people getting two, three and even sometimes four newspapers and a slight increase in our advertising rates (averaging 10%), we are very pleased to announce that the Waimarino Bulletin will continue to be a free community newspaper. We have been heartened by the response from those of you who have already paid your annual subscription. Your notes of support have been very much appreciated. Refund cheques were mailed last week. We will continue to do our very best to provide you with the best in community news and information each week.

John

Sandford

Publisher