If you want to run a customer competition which gets them creatively engaged with newspapers, consider a headline art competition. Keep it simple. Ask that they create an item of art using recent newspaper headlines. It could be visual or written art, as long as headlines are used. Get a local panel of art experts to judge the winner.
The prize does not need to be grand. The real reward is in entries and finalists being on show in your newsagency or somewhere nearby where you can leverage your involvement.
If the competition revolves around headlines in the local newspaper which is sold in your store all the better, especially for coverage of the event.
This marketing tip would be especially useful for newsagents facing competition from other outlets selling newspapers nearby.