First-half newspaper advertising investments grew 9.5 percent, a pace unmet in 10 years. Strong growth spans all categories. Meanwhile, despite upward pressure on prices, newsprint still costs less than a year ago. Momentary glee aside, we cannot risk forgetting the structural issues that held us at bay just a few months ago. They still exist in very real economic terms, holding implications far more profound than mere dollars.
Retail accounts continue to churn.
Indeed, steadfast Montgomery Ward went bankrupt, and Woolworth stores are shutting down. The intensity of competition for classified advertising continues unabated, with print and online competitors working hard to steal our franchises. Newsprint prices cycle relentlessly. We're not sure. As the children of Baby Boomers age, they become a growing share of the adult population.