TC Media and Quebecor Media withdraw from Hebdos Québec

MONTREAL, May 3, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Given the major changes that have impacted the local weekly press in recent years, TC Media and Quebecor Media have made the joint decision to withdraw from Hebdos Québec in order to secure the continuity of the Association and uphold the interests of independent newspapers. This decision was unanimously approved at a meeting of the Board of Directors on April 12.

"The local weekly press sector is in the midst of major changes, as numerous newspapers have been launched by the two major media groups. The industry experienced growth of 1.2 million copies in barely 18 months, for a total circulation of 6.2 million copies per week", explained Gilber Paquette, Executive Director and Marketing Director at Hebdos Québec.

"The withdrawal of the two major press groups will allow Hebdos Québec to refocus its mission on services adapted to the independent press, whose needs often differ from those of major players," said Chair of the Board of Directors, Angèle Marcoux-Prévost. Hebdos Québec will continue to promote the interests of its members and the weekly press to government authorities and will offer customized courses in journalism and digital production. The Association will also analyse new formulas for its annual conference and its Les Grands Prix des Hebdos awards of excellence.

Although TC Media and Quebecor Media will no longer be directly involved in the decision making relating to the Association, the two companies have confirmed that they will nonetheless support projects that will benefit the industry as a whole.

About Hebdos Québec
Hebdos Québec, a not-for-profit corporation was founded in 1932 by independent publishers. The Association's activities are centered on the promotion and development of local weekly press with a special attention for its artisans. It also defends the interests of its members to the relevant authorities.

Gilber Paquette
Executive Director and Marketing Director
Hebdos Québec inc.

Tel: [phone], extension 23
[email protected]
twitter.com/@gilberpaquette