Distribution methods

EMAP Bauer, Natmag, Conde Nast and IPC are the four main largest publishers in the UK. They are the institutions that produce magazines. 40-100% of the revenue are brought in by advertisers however the publishers control all the editorial and design content within the magazines. The amount of magazines being published and distributed depends on the circulation figures.

The flow of the magazines and the  printing process to the final selling in the shops is controlled by a network of distributers that is used by every publisher. Magazines are popularly sold in big newsagents and supermarkets, where they can target a larger audience and sell more magazines.

Sale or return: When publishers place their magazines at newsstands, if all the magazines are not brought then the remaining will be sent back to the distributor, the retailer will not be at a disadvantage here as they will get no further cost however the publisher will have a lot of wastage as the magazine will be thrown away after copies have not been sold as well as the fact it is environmentally damaging.

Freemiums- direct distribution: At busy locations such as train stations, supermarkets etc. free magazines are given out. The advertisements within these magazines increase as that's what they make their revenues from. 60% or more of the magazine is full of advertisements.

Subscriptions:
Magazines have subscriptions to allow there to be a wider audience through the social target. This allows an arrangement to be received for something, typically a publication, regularly by paying in advance or getting a discount. A regular core readership can be achieved for the magazine when readers get the magazines delivered to them on a regular basis (e.g. weekly, monthly). This can be easier for the readers when it is done through electronic distribution such as if it is sent to their ipads, kindle, inbox etc.. With some magazines gifts are received increasing the interest of the audience.

Online: E-zines- They are normally free, they are different to magazine websites and they carry mostly the same features as a hard copy, such as page numbers, to the ability to turn the page, pictures and adverts etc. However hyperlinks and videos can be inserted which would take the reader to another source.
Apps- On front cover magazines there are sometime QR codes that link to apps that may display some or all of the magazine. This can be accessed on smartphones or ipads for readers.
Electronic brand extension- Events and gigs as well as social medias such as Instagram, snap chat, twitter help extend the magazine brands. The online presence helps create more recognition from the audience and readers.