Sales data and data from other reputable sources tell us something about the future of papers, magazines, lotteries and tobacco products when it comes to over the counter purchase.
Here I made a video for newsagents whop are focussed on papers, magazines, lotteries and tobacco. The video referenced evidence, data.
In the video I reference sales data and data from The Lottery Corporation to support the position that these legacy categories are not a strong basis on which to business a shop with a bright future.
Evidence matters as it points to a path forward.
In the video, I break down the “four walls” of the legacy newsagency and reveals the stark reality of their decline.
In Australia, newspaper and magazine sales are dropping by double digits year-on-year. Simultaneously, the lottery landscape is shifting, with over 40% of sales now moving online, bypassing physical shopfronts entirely.
If your business plan relies solely on these “dying categories,” you aren’t just facing a slow period; you’re facing a fundamental economic shift. However, there is a path to thriving. The secret lies in the pivot.
I discuss how newsXpress helps independent retailers break free from the “agent” mindset and become proactive retailers. By leveraging a network of over 130 preferred suppliers, successful owners are transforming their floor space. We are seeing newsagencies evolve into destination hubs for boutique clothing, high-margin books, unique games, and artisan homewares.
I look at:
- The Data Trap: Understanding the real-world decline in print media and tobacco.
- The Digital Shift: Why online lottery sales are eroding traditional foot traffic.
- The newsXpress Advantage: Accessing suppliers that traditional newsagents can’t reach.
- Success Stories: How shifting to high-margin “want” categories like home and giftware creates sustainable growth.
Don’t settle for a business in decline. Learn how to look over the horizon and build a retail brand that is both profitable and relevant for the community.
I worry about those buying newsagencies because they like the structure of newspapers, magazines , lotteries and tobacco. There is no upside, no future and I say that based on the evidence.
I urge newsagents to not run a business that is tomorrow’s news story about another newsagency closing.