Meridian Star is a prominent newspaper serving the East Mississippi region, particularly Meridian and Lauderdale County. Established in 1898 as The Evening Star by Charles Pinckney Dement and his son James Washington Dement, the publication transitioned to morning delivery in early 2005 and was renamed The Meridian Star in 1915. It has been the sole daily newspaper in Meridian since 1921. The newspaper is published on Wednesday and Saturday, with continuous updates available on its website.
Key Strategic Focus
Meridian Star is dedicated to delivering timely and relevant news to the East Mississippi community. Its strategic focus includes expanding digital content, enhancing user engagement through social media platforms, and maintaining comprehensive coverage of local events, government affairs, education, and public safety. The newspaper also publishes bi-monthly lifestyle magazines, such as Meridian Home & Style and Timeless Meridian, catering to diverse reader interests.
Financials and Funding
Meridian Star operates as a subsidiary of CNHI LLC, a company that owns various local newspapers. The newspaper's estimated annual revenue is approximately $1.7 million, with an estimated revenue per employee of $40,476. The publication has experienced an 8% growth in employee count recently.
Technological Platform and Innovation
Meridian Star leverages a robust digital platform to complement its print editions. The website offers an e-paper feature, providing readers with a digital replica of the print newspaper. Additionally, the publication maintains active social media profiles on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to engage with the community and disseminate news promptly.
Leadership Team
The leadership team at Meridian Star includes:
- Kevin Lim, President: Oversees the overall operations and strategic direction of the newspaper.
- Flaire Kenna, Vice President of Business Development: Focuses on expanding the newspaper's business opportunities and partnerships.
- David Kirby, Circulation Director: Manages the distribution and circulation strategies to maximize readership.
- Bill Gilmore, Advertising Director: Leads the advertising department, developing strategies to attract and retain advertisers.
- Steve Smith, Circulation Director: Works alongside David Kirby to enhance circulation efforts.
Competitor Profile
In the competitive landscape of local newspapers, Meridian Star faces competition from publications such as The Daily Item, Hattiesburg American, The Shelby Star, Somerset Journal, and The Palestine Herald. These competitors offer similar news coverage in their respective regions, emphasizing the importance of Meridian Star's commitment to quality journalism and community engagement to maintain its market position.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
Meridian Star collaborates with local businesses and organizations to provide comprehensive coverage of community events and initiatives. These partnerships enhance the newspaper's content diversity and strengthen its role as a central information hub for the region.
Operational Insights
Meridian Star's strategic considerations include adapting to the evolving media landscape by enhancing its digital presence and engaging with readers through multiple platforms. The newspaper's commitment to local journalism and community involvement serves as a distinct competitive advantage, fostering reader loyalty and trust.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Looking ahead, Meridian Star aims to expand its digital offerings, including multimedia content such as videos and podcasts, to cater to changing reader preferences. The newspaper also plans to strengthen its investigative journalism efforts and deepen community engagement through interactive platforms and events.
Contact Information
- Website: www.meridianstar.com
- Social Media:
- Facebook: facebook.com/meridianstar
- Twitter: @meridianstar
- Instagram: @themeridianstar
Meridian Star remains dedicated to delivering quality journalism and serving as a trusted source of news and information for the East Mississippi community.
