National Geographic Kids magazine launches this month

The South African edition is the first English language edition licensed by the Society, with South Africa joining Russia, Germany and Latin America in taking up license rights, thus expanding the publication of this iconic brand to ten international editions.

Aimed at kids aged 6 to 14 years, National Geographic Kids was launched in the United States in 1975 and currently enjoys a circulation of over 1.2 million copies each month. The magazine, which aims to educate and excite kids about their world, reflects the same dynamic design, exceptional photography and editorial content (framed in the familiar yellow border) evident in the National Geographic main brand.

According to National Geographic Society President, John Fahey: "This growth spurt of our children's publications allows National
Geographic and the local-language publishers to reach an untapped youth market with this best-loved brand. Giving kids a window to the world in their own language through National Geographic's incomparable photographs and storytelling is a compelling way to extend the Society's mission to spread geographic knowledge."

National Geographic Kids Publisher, Sam Sneddon says, "We are incredibly excited and honoured to launch National Geographic Kids in South Africa, where the magazine can play a valuable role in educating kids. We plan to publish 10 issues a year and anticipate an initial circulation of around 17 000 copies."

Says Editor Fiona Thomson, "The idea is to expose South African kids to the amazing world of natural history, science, technology and culture and in a format that they can relate to."

Patricia Scholtemeyer, CEO of Media24 magazines, which has a 50 percent share in 8 Ink Media adds, "8 Ink Media is truly filling their mission of representing the youth market with the best international titles available, and to have a world-renowned brand like National Geographic Kids in the stable is sure to increase their credibility in delivering quality products to this niche market."

National Geographic Kids accepts limited advertising and will be available on the newsstands and by subscription from June 2004.