Kindle periodicals

Although Amazon recently improved the terms it offers publishers who distribute books on the Kindle, it continues to offer magazine content providers a 30% revenue share.

Given that the device is monochromatic, prices are determined by Amazon and publishers don’t get to establish a relationship with their readers, Ad Age asked, “Why would any magazine or newspaper publisher strike a deal with Amazon?”  Their reporting turned up five answers:

- The Kindle footprint is still relatively small, lowering the risk of subscriber cannibalization

- A 30% revenue share without physical cost can improve circulation profitability

- Publications in the Kindle store are seen and bought by the consumers interested in a digital option

- It’s a toe in the water, even if it’s not the solution publishers want

- Contracts are short enough to support a migration, if needed

The article’s headline aptly proclaims, “Pubs flirt with Kindle but don’t carry a torch.”  I have to agree.