By Joe Mulcahy, Publisher, Graphic Arts Magazine (GAM)
For the most part, I’ve been “sequestered” by COIVD-19. That’s a fancy way of saying “locked up” and separated from the outside world. I’m mostly working from my home here in Newmarket, Ontario. Like everyone, I’m wondering how long this self-imposed torture will last. But I’m also making the most of my time by contacting industry thought leaders to get their opinions on how we – and the industry – should proceed. So far I’ve talked to 13 industry veterans (i.e. our Editorial Board). Their timely advice has been both helpful and inspiring.
This pandemic has hit publishers like myself quite hard. It’s difficult enough selling print and online ads during normal times, let alone during this outbreak. But I remain optimistic. Why? First, the federal and provincial governments have done a great job helping small business owners like myself stay afloat. Second, we have volunteers who are helping to keep Graphic Arts Magazine alive and well with daily online news, updates and features. And third, I’m absolutely determined to stay in business and use this extra time to re-energize and re-focus, with helpful input from the industry leaders I’ve already contacted.
Over the next few weeks, we’ll continue dialogue with our editorial board and will come up with a plan moving forward. Then we’ll conduct an online survey asking you for your feedback. What I can tell you for sure, is that Graphic Arts Magazine will be rolling out many new opportunities, resources and marketing programs designed to get you back up and running – not just after the pandemic, but well beyond that time. In the interim, I’ll keep you informed right here every week and will provide updates our news pages at www.graphicartsmag.com. Please check it out and stay in the loop each and every day. Finally, as I always say each month at the end of my column, “Stay positive and stay focused.” From now on, I’m adding “stay safe” to that!
Be well – and be well informed.
