End of an era: Reader's Digest UK shuts down after 86 years

Kuala Lumpur: The beloved magazine Reader's Digest has ended its UK operations after 86 years. The news was announced by Editor-in-Chief Eva Mackevic on her LinkedIn page.

Mackevic expressed her sadness in a heartfelt post, stating, "After 86 wonderful years, I am very sad to share that Reader's Digest UK has come to an end." Financial strain was cited as the reason for the closure.

"Unfortunately, the company just couldn't withstand the financial pressures of today's challenging magazine publishing landscape and has ceased trading," Mackevic explained.

She extended gratitude to colleagues, writers, PR representatives, and brands who contributed to the magazine's success in the UK. Mackevic also offered reassurance to writers awaiting payment.

"I've been assured that insolvency practitioners are working to communicate with everyone about the next steps," she wrote. "I sincerely hope this process goes smoothly and swiftly for you."

A Legacy of International Success

Reader's Digest rose to fame shortly after its 1922 founding in New York. By 1929, it boasted a significant readership and substantial revenue. The magazine's international expansion began in 1938 with the UK edition.

By its 40th anniversary, Reader's Digest had established a global presence with 40 international editions in 13 languages, including Braille. It held the title of largest-circulating magazine in numerous countries, reaching a total international circulation of 23 million at its peak.