Selling digital magazine subscriptions has several advantages:
First, digital magazines are less expensive to produce and distribute than print magazines, which can lead to higher profit margins. Second, digital magazines can reach a wider audience because they can be easily accessed from anywhere in the world.
Finally, selling digital magazine subscriptions can provide valuable data on reader behavior and preferences, which can help you develop your content and marketing strategies.
And, perhaps most importantly, selling digital magazines on a recurring payment plan is one of the best ways to generate a steady and predictable income.
So if you want to do this, be sure to follow the marketing, pricing and sales tips in the article below.
How to Sell Digital Magazine Subscriptions
To sell magazine subscriptions online, you need a reliable eCommerce platform that offers a subscription model, automatic file delivery, secure payment processing, and a user-friendly interface.
How much should you charge for your digital magazine?
The price you should charge for a digital magazine depends on various factors such as your target audience, the content you offer, the quality of your publication, and your competitors’ pricing.
Researching the market and researching potential customers can help you determine a fair and competitive price. Different pricing tiers or special editions are also available.
A commonly used model is a monthly or annual subscription fee that gives readers access to all issues. Another option is to sell individual issues for a fixed price. However, most digital magazines cost between $5-20.
Another unique niche store, Off Grid Living & Survival, sells individual magazine issues as well as annual and monthly subscriptions to sustainable living. Prices for these magazines range from $4.99-$69, depending on the subscription interval.
No matter which pricing model and subscription interval you decide to go with, remember that the first rule is to always include production or design expenses as well as your desired margin in the final price.
Top Marketing Tips for Digital Magazines
An effective marketing strategy can help you increase the value of your subscription products and ultimately drive more sales.
Launch of special edition magazine
My advice is to keep innovating and trying new ideas to keep your digital magazine fresh and relevant.
For example, a special or limited edition can offer exclusive content not found in the regular issue, making it more attractive to readers who are looking for something unique or different.
It also helps you create buzz and excitement around your subscription and serves as a valuable keepsake for existing readers.
What’s more, you can make it extra special by offering limited-edition discounts for a limited time.
Share positive reviews and testimonials from current subscribers. This increases trust and provides social proof of the benefits of subscribing to a digital magazine.
Share free magazine samples to showcase what’s inside
Don’t underestimate the power of freebies! People love free stuff, so why not get a sneak peek before they decide to subscribe?
The purpose of sharing a free preview or sample is to demonstrate the quality it represents. And, let’s face it, some people need a little extra convincing — a subscription is a commitment, after all.
So it’s a good idea to show people what you really have to offer. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to generate leads that can later be used to drive more magazine subscriptions.
The secret to crafting a successful magazine sample email includes giving your audience good reasons why they should subscribe.
Please try the following structure:
- Briefly introduce the magazine issue and explain what readers can learn from it, e.g. “No hocus pocus. Just scientifically proven hair care tips.
- Give examples of how digital magazines have changed or improved their lives, such as “We’ll help you stay abreast of the latest trends…” or “Discover hidden destinations with us…”
- List other relevant benefits, such as “Every once in a while, we’ll also have a special edition discussing the best-kept industry secrets…”
Enable the Newsletter Subscription checkbox so users can opt in to receive samples of your magazine and other updates. Once a customer chooses to subscribe, they will be automatically added to your email list.
Sales Magazine: Frequently Asked Questions
How to create and sell a digital magazine?
There are various free tools available for creating digital magazines. Some popular platforms are Canva, FlipHTML5, Joomag, and Issuu. Once you’ve created your magazine, you can sell it as a subscription product through an easy-to-use e-commerce site with recurring payment plans.
How do you price a digital magazine?
A commonly used model is a monthly or annual subscription fee that gives readers access to all issues. Another option is to sell individual issues for a fixed price. However, most digital magazines typically cost between $5-20.
What happens if I change the price or interval of a subscription product?
When you change the price or interval, it creates an additional subscription plan. You’ll have the original magazine subscription and the customers who subscribed to it, and then you’ll have the new edition. The new terms apply to new customers only, while existing buyers will be billed according to the original terms.
Can I upload new files for my subscription in advance?
Could not set up a scheduled product file release. However, you can update the files at intervals of your choice. For example, if you sell monthly products, update the file every month.
