Trends and Topics in Print Media

Every Monday morning, a team of Access media mavens gathers to read the latest trends and topics covered in print media (yes, we still read print media!).

The team shares these insights agency wide to ensure we’re all informed and equipped for the week ahead. Moving forward, we’ll share learnings from the consumer, business and tech spaces here on the Access Point.

In this week’s edition: The New York Times’ digital platform is growing, and boozy ice-cream is the summer trend to look out for:

• The New York Times Sees Unexpected Digital Growth in First Quarter

The New York Times reported that the company’s results “were better than expected,” as digital advertising gains continue to “outpace” the decline of print. The total number of paid subscriptions topped 4.5 million, and advertising revenue rose 19% thanks to the company’s popular podcasts, such as “The Daily.” This is certainly the most positive news we’ve read recently in terms of the shifting media landscape, as typical coverage has revolved around layoffs and acquisitions. The Times credited the Trump-centric political climate and recent major news events to subscriber increases and growth. Most recently, the publication announced a new parenting site and—for fans of “The Daily”—a new television series called “The Weekly” (clever!), which will air on FX and Hulu in June (Edmund Lee, The New York Times).

• Out: Mocktails. In: Boozy Ice Cream?  

Esquire reminded us last week that “booze is optional” and mocktails are trending. According to the Wall Street Journal, though, boozy ice-cream is the next big thing. Tipsy Scoop just opened its doors in Williamsburg, Brooklyn to patron’s looking for a unique booze-filled experience. Even the MET is catching in on the trend, as they offer boozy popsicles (aka Poptails), on their rooftop garden. Experts warn consumers, though, that if you’re looking for a buzz, look elsewhere. Most of these creations “have very little booze” and are more about the fun of whipping out your I.D. in exchange for a scoop (Charles Passy, Wall Street Journal).