Jack Matthews is the CEO of Fairfax metro media and has recently overseen the move of the publisher’s key brands The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age to compact size. In a video interview that first appeared in Encore, Matthews speaks to Tim Burrowes.
COMPACT AND THE CONSUMER
Jack Matthews on the Fairfax move to compact, what took them so long, the work behind the scenes to make it happen, what it cost and whether consumers are more likely to pay for broadsheet or compact.
THE CHANGING MODEL
Matthews on how Fairfax will judge the success of the compact using ‘softer metrics’, whether the day will come when there are no longer daily print editions and how important advertisers are in the changing model of newspapers.
TABLETS
Matthews talks about the uptake for Fairfax’s tablet apps and whether people are willing to pay for tablet content.
THE PAYWALL
Matthews explains the forthcoming metered paywall and preventing people from getting around the wall.
MASTHEAD BRANDS
Matthews talks about the brand of The Sydney Morning Herald online versus the digital masthead, the bringing together of the Fairfax newsrooms and their differing cultures.
COMPETITION AND MATTHEWS’ CAREER
Matthews on whether he fears The Guardian’s move Down Under, his next move career wise and his plans to hand over the reins.
This story first appeared in the weekly edition of Encore available for iPad and Android tablets. Visit encore.com.au for a preview of the app or click below to download.
