News Corp Australia has announced a bold new direction for one of its community brands, the Manly Daily.
In January 2018, the Manly Daily will launch two hero print editions on Wednesdays and Saturdays, complemented by an enhanced online and mobile offering.
The two unmissable print editions, each with a distinct unique personality and purpose, will ensure the Manly Daily’s loyal readers and advertisers will be delivered the most relevant, entertaining and informative content in a fresh, bold new format.
From next year, the Manly Daily will include a new-look masthead, new Saturday branding to The Weekend Manly Daily, a revitalised content approach, and a fresh design. Online, there will be more news, more sport and more lifestyle content.
Wednesday’s edition will provide the best in news and sport, supplemented by must-have weekend planning information on food, music, lifestyle and what’s on.
The Weekend Manly Daily will provide in-depth reads and features, with the news, views and personalities unique to the northern beaches, plus the glossy real estate magazine and a renewed focus on homes and lifestyle.
NewsLocal publisher John McGourty said the changes reflect the needs, attitudes and behaviours of today’s modern media audience.
“The Manly Daily has been integral part of the northern beaches community of Sydney since 1906, providing the daily news, sport and entertainment that matters to its community,” he said.
“But just as our readers lives and needs have changed, so too must the Manly Daily evolve to keep in step with its readership and its advertisers.
“The new-look Manly Daily will be bolder, bigger, brighter, better, more entertaining and informative in all media channels. It will be a true 21st century media brand.”
The shift to twice-weekly editions with distinct content offerings follows extensive research by News Corp hat showed a strong appetite among readers for a Wednesday and Saturday-only print product, and a stronger online and mobile offering.
McGourty said the change to the printing schedule did not alter the Manly Daily’s commitment to delivering quality news, in quality environments, for its readers and advertisers.
“News Corp is committed to the long-term future of newspapers and passionately believes in the vital role our printed products play in their communities,” he said.
“The Manly Daily will continue to be a vibrant and proud voice for its community.”