Thompson: CDA Press Doing Just Fine Thank You

Item: State of the newspaper in North Idaho: Company’s papers seeing increased circulation, growth /Mike Satren, Coeur d’Alene Press

Question: Some newspapers in other markets are struggling. Why do you think that is, and how are you doing at The Press by comparison?

Publisher Jim Thompson /Coeur d’Alene Press: Some metropolitan and suburban newspapers around the country are struggling because they lost touch with their customers and changing market conditions. Our neighbors in eastern Washington are currently downsizing their position because businesses in Spokane have realized that they no longer are the dominant retail center that could draw consumers from North Idaho and neighboring Montana. The Coeur d’Alene Press and Hagadone newspapers have always relied on their connection to local buyers and sellers. Our entire franchise and business plan relies on being the local connection.

Question: With our decision to cut staff in the North Idaho news operation, the Press becomes the dominant print media in the region. How does that make you feel?