Sunday, March 7, 2010

Magazines Self Destruct




I am a long time reader and collector of art books and magazines. In the last few years I have read a lot about the decline of both the newspaper and magazine publication business. As reported, the economic conditions have forced the publication businesses to cut back and in some instances to fold. The magazine business is doing a little better than the disappearing newspapers but I still find this troubling.

Over the years, I have subscribed to several top quality magazines. Recently however there have been some changes made that I believe were not good for the subscriber or the publisher. Magazines are shrinking in size, number of issues as well as making cost- cutting mailing procedures. One particular magazine I have often looked forward to receiving in the mail has discontinued enclosing the magazine in a mailer. If you haven’t experienced this personally you can almost imagine what is happening today. I believe the last 3 out of 6 issues arrived in my mailbox in unacceptable condition due to poor handling by the postal service.

After discussing this on the phone with the circulation department and sending a letter to the editor, I feel that a satisfactory solution is not in the works. I have been told that due to the costs it is no longer possible to insure the magazines arrive to customers in the condition as shipped. I believe this is like saying we don’t care if our publication is not in acceptable condition when you the customer receives it.

I think we can blame the economy for a lot of things that are happening today, but I feel good customer service is not one of them. I believe consumers are still interested in quality art publications. I know I am.


www.nellasbooksandcollectibles.ecrater.com

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