The History of The Big Issue

1. The History of The Big Issue
Research Post

2. Origins
 The Big Issue is a street newspaper founded by John Bird and Gordon Roddick in September
1991, published in four continents.
 The two founders had been friends since 1967, producing a great partnership for the magazines
wellbeing.
 They published this magazine in response to the growing number of rough sleepers on the
streets of London. Due to the niche audience the magazine was initially published monthly until
June 1993 when it became weekly. They began to expand into Wales and Scotland which became
to be known as “national editions”. Alongside this they also introduced regional editions for
Northern England and England’s South West Region, there are also further editions produced in
seven locations overseas.

3. Expanding
 Due to the niche audience the magazine was initially published monthly until June 1993 when it
became weekly.
 They began to expand into Wales and Scotland which became to be known as “national
editions”.
 Alongside this they also introduced regional editions for Northern England and England’s South
West Region, there are also further editions produced in seven locations overseas.

4. Profit
 It was bought cheap with their own money to sell them at their own profit or loss.
 The big issue Foundation was established in 1995 to link suppliers with the crucial services and
support which helped them address the issues that have arisen as a result of becoming homeless.
 Since its kick-start the Big Issue Foundation has provided referrals and advice to address issues
such as health, education and employment.
 These help those who became homeless to regain their sense of independence and a chance of
a normal life again.

5. Money
 Since 1991 the magazine has helped over 92,000 suppliers earn £115 million, which is widely
appreciated by the homeless who want to change.
 In 2001 the magazine sold 300,00 copies, showing their growth reaching out to more people
then in 1991.
 Vendors now buy The Big Issue for £1.25 and sell it for £2.50 resulting in each seller becoming a
micro-entrepreneur (a person who sets up a business).

6. Statistics
From The Big Issues website