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Paper makes switch to tabloid after 123 years

A weekly newspaper has made the switch to a tabloid format after 123 years as a broadsheet.

The Brighouse Echo published its first tabloid paper last week, which had been completely redesigned and ran to 56 pages, compared to the previous 24-28 pages.

It changed size after extensive research with readers to find out their views on a tabloid format, with them saying it was brighter, more attractive and made things easier to find.

The Johnston Press title’s masthead has also been changed to blue and black rather than just blue, with a different font.

  • The first issue of the new tabloid format hit the newsstands last week.
  • Editor Stephen Firth said: “It was felt that it was the right time to make the change. Our sister paper, the Halifax Evening Courier, changed to tabloid some time ago.

    “Rather than just redesigning what we have got, we decided to run some quite extensive research among existing and non readers.

    “The view was about 8-1 in favour of the change, which convinced us that it was the right thing to do. The reaction has been very good so far.

    “It has been completely redesigned. I believe it is easier to find your way around. We think the whole package represents good value for money.”

    He added the masthead of the West Yorkshire title had changed but was still recognisable as the Echo on newsstands and the cover price remained at 50p.

  • The last issue before the change to tabloid took place.
  • 5 comments

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    • October 13, 2010 at 10:27 am
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      This is all Atex’s fault, sack the board, charge for the internet, what about our subs? Blah Blah Blah.

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    • October 13, 2010 at 11:10 am
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      Sounds a great idea. Most weekly broadsheets I have seen over 40 years have been over-written and dull, dull, dull. Properly edited tabloids SHOULD instill a bit of discipline in writing and design sadly lacking on too many flabby broadsheets. Col Kurtz: My colleagues still working tell me Atex is wonderful and has changed their lives for the better in so many ways. I am so pleased for them. If only Atex had come along years ago the world would be happier place. I am so sorry I missed it.

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    • October 13, 2010 at 11:21 am
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      Same reporters, same editor, same design system so why would that improve the quality or tightness of stories written? No big deal about a broadsheet turning to tabloid but why they have to pretend it has anything to do with the readers (did they really express a preference for one size over the other or were even asked?)rather than tell the truth which is that it can now be printed in Sheffield along with all the other West Yorkshire titles and that press can’t handle boradsheet.

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    • October 13, 2010 at 2:34 pm
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      I worked with Stephen and his team earlier this year and know that the change to tabloid will make a big difference with production, readers and sales. It was something the readers wanted and I’m sure their preference has nothing to do with what system the paper is produced on. It looks great, congratulations to the team.

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