Atlanta Journal-Constitution Takes Bold Steps to Revitalize Local News Amid Industry Decline
In an era marked by dwindling local news outlets and a saturated digital landscape dominated by tech giants, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC) is poised for a renaissance under the leadership of Andrew Morse, who joined as president and publisher in January 2023. With a substantial $150 million investment over several years, Morse aims not merely to stabilize but to transform the paper into a modern media hub.
"The ad marketplace has been hollowed out by Google and Facebook," Morse acknowledged, emphasizing the need to build for the future rather than resign to decline. The American local news industry faces significant challenges, with more than 2.5 newspapers closing weekly, as reported by Northwestern University.
Morse’s revitalization strategy includes a move back to downtown Atlanta, where a state-of-the-art newsroom is under construction. This new facility is designed for diverse media formats, including reporting, podcasting, and streaming. The AJC aims to re-establish its influence in Georgia, focusing on essential local coverage, particularly around political reporting that places Atlanta as a critical focal point.
Beyond politics, Morse has articulated a vision for cultural representation, launching a standalone product focused on African American culture, labeled "UATL" for "Unapologetically Atlanta," which has seen rapid subscriber growth. He engages closely with staff, maintaining hands-on involvement to ensure the newsroom meets contemporary journalism standards without compromising editorial integrity.
With plans to grow from 100,000 current subscribers to 500,000, Morse’s leadership is grounded in optimism, and he has already increased staff numbers significantly. Many industry peers express hope for his success, recognizing the AJC’s potential to redefine local journalism in a challenging landscape.
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Photo credit www.southcarolinapublicradio.org
