Specialist magazine publishing company 8 Ink Media and international magazine company Time Inc. have announced plans to launch a South African edition of Real Simple in December 2005.
8 Ink Media MD Sam Sneddon says: "The launch of Real Simple is in line with 8 Ink's strategy to publish specialist titles with unique appeal and market relevance. The title is incredibly exciting. Its innovative editorial content has captured the zeitgeist of women today, while the magazine has enjoyed tremendous success in advertising and circulation revenues in the U.S.
"We are extremely pleased that the editorial and business staff of the South African edition includes some of the most talented professionals in SA publishing today."
Kerryn du Preez has been hired as editor and Lianne Burton as publisher.
Real Simple U.S. president and publisher Robin Domeniconi says: "We're excited to work with 8 Ink Media on a South African edition of Real Simple. The desire to make life easier is universal. We think the concept will translate beautifully."
Real Simple U.S. Managing Editor Kristin van Ogtrop has appointed special projects editor, Sarah Humphreys, as the liaison for this and other international editions.
Real Simple launched in the U.S. in March 2000. The magazine's circulation has more than quadrupled, with a current circulation of 1.8 million. Advertising pages are up 25% year-to-date.
In the U.S. Real Simple is currently expanding its brand premise, "life made easier," to other platforms, including a book, due in stores in September 2005; a television show, scheduled to debut in January 2006; a product line to debut in 2006; and other international editions.
