Amazon to End Kindle Publishing for Periodicals Program in 2023
In a recent announcement, Amazon revealed that it will be winding down its Kindle Publishing for Periodicals program next year. This program includes print and digital magazine and newspaper subscriptions, as well as single-issue sales on Kindle Newsstand. While this decision may come as a surprise, Amazon stated that it is part of their annual operating planning review process to assess and make necessary changes to their businesses.
According to Publishers Weekly, Amazon currently offers print magazine subscriptions in the U.S., and digital magazine and newspaper subscriptions and single-issue sales in three other markets. However, starting next year, these offerings will be discontinued. Amazon will notify subscribers about these changes in March, and readers will have until September to either subscribe or cancel their subscriptions elsewhere.
For those who prefer digital reading, Amazon suggests trying Prime Reading and Kindle Unlimited, where some of the periodicals will still be available. However, it is important to note that Amazon’s print textbook rental program will also be ending during the spring semester, while digital textbook rentals will continue to be offered.
In an email sent to publishers, Amazon expressed their commitment to working with them throughout the wind-down process to ensure the best experience for their mutual customers. GoodEReader reported that some publishers will have the opportunity to offer their subscriptions in Kindle Unlimited Magazines, which is available through a Kindle Unlimited subscription. Publishers who sign up for this program will receive a contract and an estimate of their potential annual income through the partnership.
This decision by Amazon comes after CEO Andy Jassy announced staff eliminations and changes to the company’s business in November. As part of a larger layoff, Amazon is expected to lay off as many as 10,000 employees, representing about 3% of its total workforce. The company is also pausing hiring in its corporate workforce, with layoffs continuing into 2023.
While the discontinuation of the Kindle Publishing for Periodicals program may reduce revenue for Amazon, it could also significantly impact magazine and newspaper publishers who rely on this income. Not all publishers will be invited to participate in Prime Reading or Kindle Unlimited, potentially leading to financial challenges for those excluded. Ultimately, it appears that everyone involved – Amazon, its employees, publishers, and readers – may experience some negative consequences.
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