Audience insights have shown that while local news, politics and crime stories drive engagement and subscriptions Monday to Friday, when it comes to the weekend it’s features, longer reads and a celebration of local communities that people are more likely to appreciate and enjoy, say the publishers.
The Courier, which has a 10-strong features team, is responding with an additional 16 pages of exclusive lifestyle, family, health and women’s interest content, a refreshed Courier Magazine, a new food and drink supplement and a redesigned Courier Farming pullout.
The content will also be available online to The Courier’s digital subscribers and news pages will often carry QR codes for readers to discover more on the website.
Jayne Savva, features editor for DC Thomson’s news brands, said: “Our priority is always to give our readers added value and respond to the feedback and data about what they want and expect from their local media.
“We’ve done a lot of work with our audience insights team this year which has told us that news avoidance, particularly at weekends, is an ongoing trend with people looking for some light relief from the big social and political issues impacting the world today. At the weekend, people will generally be more focused on themselves, their families and friends and try to make time for own interests and hobbies.
“We’ve responded with compelling reads with an authentic local angle to Dundee, Perth, Fife or Angus. Every story will be unique to us, uncovered by our features team from their unique vantage point, living and working in our communities. We’ll be shining a light on ordinary people who are doing extraordinary things; featuring amazing local heroes, incredible health journeys and inspirational families. Plus, we’ll be uncovering the very best ways to enjoy downtime in your area.
“While we are excited to introduce these new additions to our weekend edition, our commitment to delivering high-quality local content remains unchanged. Readers can still expect the best news coverage, comprehensive sports reports, engaging features, and the latest lifestyle trends they have come to rely on. The Courier has always reflected its community, and with this relaunch, we aim to bring them even closer to the heart of Tayside, Fife and Perth.”
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