Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Publication Posts Strong Increases in Advertising, Circulation
NEW YORK, November 19, 2007 / -- Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. today announced body + soul magazine will increase rate base and frequency for 2008. Beginning with the January/February 2008 issue, body + soul's rate base will increase to 550,000, up more than 22% from 450,000. This will be the magazine's sixth rate base increase since MSLO acquired it in 2004. body + soul will also add two issues to its publishing schedule starting next year, with 10 issues expected in 2008, up from eight annually.
The increase in rate base and frequency builds on the magazine's continuing growth and success. body + soul posted single-digit growth in ad pages and double-digit growth in advertising revenues in 2007 compared to 2006. In the same period, the magazine added 40 new national advertiser accounts across a broad range of categories including financial services, automotive, travel, packaged goods, apparel and footwear, and personal care. For the first half 2007, body + soul's total circulation was up more than 20% and single-copy sales were up more than 30%, compared to first half 2006.
"body + soul is a magnet for today's eco- and health-conscious consumer looking for a balanced lifestyle," said body + soul Publisher Janesse Thaw Bruce. “As consumer demand increases for body + soul's unique brand of how-to ideas in the natural living arena, advertisers are recognizing our leadership position and jumping at the opportunity to reach our targeted and growing audience.” According to the Natural Marketing Institute, the Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability (LOHAS) market is estimated to include 35 million consumers. Consumer spending within the U.S. LOHAS market was $209 billion in 2005 and is expected to more than double to $420 billion in 2010, according to the Natural Marketing Institute.
“More and more women are looking to bring health, well being and green/sustainable content into their lifestyle,” said body + soul Editor in Chief Alanna Fincke. “To meet consumer demand, we are expanding our coverage and filling our pages with thought-provoking topics such as sustainable/eco stories and expert tips to help our readers live a healthier life.”
New editorial features and special columns for 2008 include eco-fashion stories, a new green etiquette column, a new “Pantry Primer” featuring nutritional information and tips for healthy eating, and beginning in April, an eco-challenge column where writers relay their stories about how they are “going green.” The March issue's Big Idea column will feature an interview with former President Bill Clinton who discusses giving and gratitude.
Based in Watertown, Mass., body + soul magazine is designed to inform and encourage readers in their quest toward whole living, presenting ideas on green issues, rejuvenation, conscious eating, fitness, inner growth and more. Readers are provided with the high-quality information and inspiration in a beautifully designed format that distinguishes it from other healthy lifestyle publications. The magazine is printed on recycled paper, reflecting the values it embraces and celebrates.
About body + soul
body + soul magazine informs, inspires and encourages readers in their quest toward Whole Living. Since becoming part of the Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia portfolio, body + soul has solidified the leadership position in the health/wellness/sustainability magazine category, providing how-to information and inspiration, including useful information on green living and environmentally friendly products and services. Acquired by MSLO in August 2004, the magazine has more than doubled in circulation. For more information, please visit http://www.marthastewart.com/bodyandsoul.
About Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc.
Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) is a diversified media and merchandising company, inspiring and engaging consumers with unique content and distinctive products. The Publishing segment encompasses five magazines, including the company's flagship publication, Martha Stewart Living, periodic special issues and books. The marthastewart.com website provides consumers with instant access to MSLO's multimedia library, search and find capabilities, and more. The Broadcasting division produces the Emmy-winning daily, national syndicated program, “The Martha Stewart Show” and Martha Stewart Living Radio, channel 112 on SIRIUS Satellite Radio. In addition to its media properties, MSLO offers beautiful, practical and superior quality Martha Stewart products through licensing agreements with carefully selected companies. For additional information, visit www.marthastewart.com.
Contact: Katie GoldbergCommunications Director, 212-827-8392 or kgoldberg@marthastewart.com
