Amazon has implemented a policy to cease the sale of print and Kindle subscriptions for magazines, newspapers, and other periodicals. This move, initially announced last year, became effective this week, leaving numerous independent publishers in a difficult position.
According to Amazon, customers who have Kindle subscriptions will no longer receive issues of their subscriptions after September 4, 2023. The company pledged to issue pro-rated refunds for any undelivered issues within 3-5 business days. Annual subscriptions will not be renewed at the end of their terms.
Amazon advised customers to contact the publisher directly if they wish to cancel their Print Newsstand subscription.
The impact of this policy change has been significant, with some publishers facing challenges to sustain their publications. An editorial in the August issue of Fantasy Magazine expressed sadness over the publication's discontinuation, citing financial challenges. The editorial explained that Fantasy Magazine was unable to sustain itself financially, and the situation was exacerbated by the changes in Kindle Periodicals.
Last March, Amazon announced its decision to discontinue all print and Kindle magazine and newspaper subscriptions, leaving independent publishers in a scramble to find alternative income sources.
In response to these changes, some publishers have been offered the opportunity to join Amazon's Kindle Unlimited program. This program allows subscribers to pay a monthly fee for access to a selection of books and magazines.
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Amazon's policy shift has raised concerns among independent publishers, as it impacts their distribution channels and financial stability. Publishers are now seeking alternative strategies to maintain their publications and reach their audiences in the absence of Amazon's subscription services.
Inputs from IANS
