The German taz newspaper made history on October 17, 2024, when it published its final daily print edition. The left-wing alternative newspaper from Berlin, known for its provocative and unconventional headlines, decided to end its 44-year tradition in print due to high distribution costs.
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The historic decision of taz newspaper
Taz becomes the first national newspaper in Germany to make such a radical decision. The famous headlines that “made readers’ days” and caused passersby to stop at newsstands will now appear only in digital format.
The collectible final edition became highly sought after, while subscribers will now receive PDF files and have access to enriched online content. The weekend edition will continue to circulate normally, accompanied once a month by the German-language edition of Le Monde Diplomatique.
Strategic planning and preparation
As Pascal Beucker, political editor at taz since 1999, explains, the decision was well-studied and planned since 2018. The newspaper ensured that no employee would lose their job, while digital content enhancement began in 2020.
The final decision to discontinue the daily print edition was made at the shareholders’ general assembly in 2023, aiming for a smooth transition to the new “hybrid” format.
Reader and employee reactions
Initial concerns about losing nearly half of the 40,000 subscribers proved excessive. Linda, 44, a loyal reader since age 19, expressed her understanding of the decision, remaining a subscriber despite nostalgia for the sound of page-turning.
Employees describe strange feelings, especially when they will no longer see stacks of newspapers waiting for them at the office entrance every Monday morning.
The future of taz and German press
Since 1978, taz newspaper as a self-managed alternative publication has faced many challenges. Threats of permanent closure were overcome thanks to contributions from supporters and fundraising campaigns, proving its “nine lives” nature. Today, 25,098 supporters back it in a grassroots company format.
Employees speak of a “new beginning” and view the future with optimism. However, the German press market is experiencing significant decline, especially print media, while concentration phenomena are strengthening. Many predict that taz’s farewell to print will soon be followed by other newspapers.
