Published: 6/15/2020 5:08:14 PM
Dear Readers,
After thoughtful analysis and deliberation, we have reached a decision to cease the in-house production of our newspaper. Starting in late July, the paper will be printed by a commercial printer in Auburn, Mass. I want to assure you that this change will not adversely affect your delivery times, the quality of our content, or our robust digital content platforms.
When we installed our flexographic press there were 38 similar presses across the country. Following our shutdown there will be only one.
While our decision to get out of the business of manufacturing newspapers was economically motivated, it also reflects our desire to focus on the Gazette’s core mission. Content, particularly local news content, is unequivocally that mission.
This is, without question, the business model that best positions us for the future, allowing us to continue the award winning coverage our readers require.
Our team of journalists will remain deeply committed to serving the region, as we have for more than 200 years. We’ll continue sharing the stories of our communities, keeping tabs on our local governments and institutions, and delivering the definitive news and advertising solutions for the Pioneer Valley – in print and online. Last year the gazettenet.com website and associated e-paper had a 28% year-over-year increase versus 2018, a testament to the quality and depth of our coverage and our commitment to Hampshire County and the surrounding area.
The cessation of production will result in 29 employees – 9 full-time and 20 part-time employees – being laid off; all will be eligible for severance packages. We are grateful for their hard work but, as we all know and experience, times change.
If you have questions, feel free to reach out to me at mmoses@gazettenet.com. Please be patient, as I will do my best to answer questions personally and in a timely fashion.
Finally, I want to conclude by expressing our appreciation to everyone for your tremendous response to our recent fundraising efforts - you have my heartfelt thanks.
— MICHAEL MOSES
Publisher