The publisher of two major Aussie lifestyle magazines has spoken out for the first time since making almost their entire staff was made redundant three days ago.
Paragon DCN – the US based publisher of Australian Women’s Health and Men’s Health magazines – informed staff during a shock meeting on Monday that they would be closing the print magazines.
Owner Ian Brooks has been quiet for the three days that followed while the eleven staff who have been let go processed the news.
“Paragon DCN made the difficult decision to close Australian Men’s Health and Australian Women’s Health magazines on 20 March 2023,” Mr Brooks said in a statement on Thursday.
The last print edition will go on-sale on April 3.
“The respective websites, social media and EDMs will continue to be published for the foreseeable future or until another publisher is found,” the statement read.
“Print advertising obligations up to the May edition and all digital advertising obligations will be honoured by Paragon DCN. Sufficient staff have been retained to continue the digital offerings.
“It is with great regret that eleven great employees were made redundant. The team have done a brilliant job producing wonderful magazines and engaging websites, but due to adverse personal and commercial circumstances, Paragon DCN had to take this unfortunate but necessary decision.
“My heartfelt thanks to our loyal staff, contributors and all our commercial partners who have supported us since the relaunch of our brands in early 2021.”