Has The New York Times Legitimately Increased Its Circulation Despite Criticism?

Claims that The New York Times (NYT) has failed to increase its circulation have been debunked by reliable sources. In reality, the newspaper has seen significant growth in both online and digital subscriptions, defying the narrative spun by critics and political protagonists.

NYT's Profitability and Revenue Growth

According to CBS Marketwatch, the Associated Press, and Nieman Lab, three independent sources, the NYT has consistently added more online subscribers, increased revenue, and demonstrated ongoing profitability, especially over the past year and a half. Despite frequent attacks from the current political climate, the newspaper has managed to grow its circulation through strategic marketing and content innovation.

The NYT has invested heavily in marketing to attract new readers, and this strategy has clearly paid off. Partisan claims that the newspaper is "failing" are inaccurate and misleading. In fact, the NYT is on pace to earn over 600 million dollars in digital revenue this year, which is halfway to its ambitious goal of reaching 800 million dollars by 2020.

Trump and The New York Times

Despite the current administration's criticism, the NYT continues to thrive. President Trump has derided the newspaper as "fake news" and "failing," but the paper's influence and credibility remain undiminished. The president's contradictory behavior further highlights the challenges the newspaper faces. On one hand, he vilifies them in public while privately seeking their interviews, knowing that their coverage is seen as the gold standard.

NYT's Revenue and Subscription Growth

Data from the New York Times Company Continues to Add Online Subscribers as Digital Advertising Grows on May 8, 2019, reveals significant growth in both subscriber numbers and revenue. The total number of paid subscriptions, including both digital and print, reached 4.5 million, with over 3.5 million people paying for online products. The company added 223,000 customers for its news, crossword, and cooking apps during the quarter, marking a 29 percent increase over the previous year.

Online advertising revenue significantly boosted the company, rising by 19 percent to 55 million dollars, largely due to its successful podcast business, notably "The Daily." Combined revenue from digital subscriptions and advertising businesses rose by 16 percent to 165.4 million dollars. The company's podcast business specifically contributed to its digital revenue, with an estimated 709 million in digital revenue achieved the previous year.

Strategic Growth and Investment

The NYT's newsroom staff has significantly grown to 1,600 people, the largest number in its 167-year history. This investment signals a commitment to maintaining and expanding its presence in the digital market. The newspaper is keenly aware of the challenges posed by the internet and the competition for ad dollars, but it continues to adapt and innovate, seeing its digital side grow exponentially.

The transition to digital products is part of the broader industry trend, and the NYT is at the forefront of this shift. The newspaper remains in dynamic transition, capitalizing on its strengths as a leading digital platform while preserving its historical legacy.

In conclusion, The New York Times has significantly increased its circulation through digital subscriptions and has continued to generate substantial revenue despite the challenges posed by the current administration. These positive developments underscore the newspaper's resilience and its dedication to maintaining its status as a flagship in the media industry.