Newspaper publishers

The first release of estimates from the new Survey of Newspaper Publishers is now available for 1999 and 2000. These data provide information on revenue and expenses for the industry at the national level.

Total revenue for newspaper publishers in 2000 was $4.75 billion, up 2.6% from $4.63 billion in 1999. Strong growth in advertising revenues was offset by stagnant circulation sales and a drop in non-operating revenues. Ontario led all provinces with growth in advertising revenues of 6.6%.

Total expenses for the industry were $4.01 billion in 2000, down 0.5% from 1999. Despite rising newsprint costs and a growing labour bill, newspaper publishers held expenses stable through decreases in interest and depreciation expenses.

The combination of rising revenues and steady costs resulted in a 23% increase in profits to $743 million, a profit margin of 15.6%.

Available on CANSIM: table 361-0003.

For more information, or to enquire about the concepts, methods or data quality of this release, contact Peter Kalhok (613-951-0663; peter.kalhok@statcan.gc.ca), Service Industries Division.