Print’s Unexpected Resilience: How Hyperlocal Focus and AI are Forging a Future for News
While headlines often declare the death of print, a recent gathering of industry leaders at the 33rd Indian Printers Summit in New Delhi paints a surprisingly optimistic picture. The event revealed a news publishing landscape where print isn’t simply surviving, but actively evolving – driven by a renewed emphasis on hyperlocal content, the strategic adoption of AI, and a commitment to sustainability. This isn’t about clinging to the past; it’s about leveraging print’s unique strengths in a world increasingly dominated by digital noise.
The Power of Proximity: Why Hyperlocal is the New Black
One of the most consistent themes emerging from the Summit was the enduring value of hyperlocal news. Dhruba Mukherjee, CEO of ABP, highlighted how a localized approach unlocks opportunities for targeted advertising. “Being hyperlocal gives us the opportunity to buy local ads. The impact is high, wastage is low and exposure is greater.” This is a critical advantage that digital and television struggle to replicate. In a fragmented media landscape, the ability to deliver highly relevant news and advertising to a specific community is a powerful differentiator. Publishers are realizing that focusing on what’s happening right here – local events, school board meetings, community issues – builds a loyal readership and attracts local advertisers.
AI-Assisted Print: Boosting Efficiency and Profitability
The integration of Artificial Intelligence isn’t about replacing journalists; it’s about freeing them up to do what they do best: investigative reporting and insightful analysis. Bonnier News Local in Sweden is already demonstrating this, with 45 of its newspapers now produced using entirely AI-assisted workflows. Benjamin Peetre, Sr Business Developer – Print at Bonnier News Local, emphasized the financial imperative: “While print revenue is going down, digital revenue is growing. Our focus is on making print production as efficient as possible to keep it profitable.” This includes automating tasks like page layout, ad insertion, and even content personalization, reducing costs and maximizing output. The trend suggests that **print production** will increasingly rely on AI to optimize workflows and maintain profitability.
Beyond Automation: AI for Content Enhancement
The application of AI extends beyond the printing press itself. AI-powered tools can analyze reader data to identify content gaps, personalize news feeds, and even assist in writing basic news reports. This allows publishers to deliver more relevant and engaging content, strengthening the connection with their audience. However, as Jayant Mammen Mathew, Executive Editor and Director of Malayala Manorama Company, rightly pointed out, editorial quality remains paramount: “Unless we are editorially superior, it will be very difficult for our readers to stick with us.”
Sustainability Takes Center Stage: A Commitment to Environmental Accountability
The industry is also facing increasing pressure to address its environmental impact. The recognition of ABP Kolkata, The Times of India (Ahmedabad & Delhi – Sahibabad) with “Carbon Footprint Verification Certificates” underscores a growing commitment to sustainability. These printers participated in a WAN-IFRA project to audit GHG emissions, demonstrating a willingness to embrace transparency and accountability. This isn’t just about public relations; it’s about attracting environmentally conscious readers and advertisers. The news industry, like all sectors, is being held to higher environmental standards, and proactive measures are essential for long-term viability. You can learn more about sustainable printing practices from organizations like the Environmental Paper Network.
The Digital-Print Symbiosis: A Necessary Coexistence
The Summit consistently reinforced the idea that print and digital aren’t competitors, but complementary forces. Mariam Mammen Mathew, VP of WAN-IFRA and CEO of Manorama Online, succinctly stated: “Print and digital go better together.” Digital platforms can drive traffic to print editions, while print can provide a tangible and trusted source of information. Pawan Agarwal, Deputy MD of DB Corp, echoed this sentiment, arguing that “Digital cannot substitute what print is doing ever.” The key is to leverage the strengths of each medium – print’s credibility and hyperlocal focus, and digital’s reach and interactivity – to create a comprehensive news ecosystem.
Looking Ahead: World Press Trends and the Future of News
Early findings from World Press Trends 2025-2026, presented by Magdoom Mohamed, Managing Director of WAN-IFRA South Asia, suggest that the Indian news media industry is remarkably stable. The passion for print, coupled with the innovative approaches being adopted by publishers, indicates a positive outlook. The future of news isn’t about choosing between print and digital; it’s about finding the right balance and adapting to the evolving needs of the audience. The publishers who embrace AI, prioritize hyperlocal content, and commit to sustainability will be best positioned to thrive in the years to come.
What strategies are you seeing work best for integrating print and digital in your local market? Share your insights in the comments below!
