The document discusses potential magazine distributors for a new music magazine. It considers both mainstream distributors like Bauer and IPC Media, which have distributed popular music magazines like NME, Kerrang, and Q, as well as independent distributors like Vice. While independent distributors can target niche audiences, a mainstream distributor would be better suited since the magazine aims to appeal to a wide range of people. Mainstream distributors provide high-level distribution but also come with high costs, while independent distributors have lower distribution but also smaller audiences. The document also discusses using multi-platform strategies like those of NME to further increase readership.

1. Question 3. What kind of media institution might distribute your magazine and why? After researching various magazine distributors, I have discovered that IPC Media and Bauer are two of the main distribution companies. Bauer produce popular music magazines such as : Kerrang Mojo Q IPC Media also produces some popular music magazines, including NME.

2. Question 3. Magazines I have studied. After studying various music magazines, mine related most to magazines such as NME, Q and Kerrang. Each of these magazines have been distributed by mainstream companies such as “Bauer” and “IPC Media” because the magazines will appeal to a great deal of people, earning back money for high distribution costs.

3. Question 3. Independent Distribution. Independent magazine distributors such as Vice sell and distribute magazines on a much smaller scale, meaning that they can target the magazine at a much more niche audience. This would not be the case for my magazine as it was designed to appeal to quite a wide range of people. Instead of being sold in small outlets, it would be sold on a multiplatform level and distributed in shops such as WHSmith, Tesco, Spar, etc.

4. Question 3. Benefits and drawbacks of independent and mainstream distribution. Mainstream: Media product gets consumed on a much higher level, meaning that the product earns more money. Independent: Media product appeals to a much more niche audience, making it more stylised and individual. Mainstream: Distribution costs are much higher, meaning that there is a lot of pressure to sell a vast number of products. Independent: Media product isn’t as well known, therefore if sales are too low their will not be enough funds to produce the magazine.

5. Question 3. Multi-platform consumption. Readers would also be able to consume my product through means of internet, radio and television. This is similar to other magazines of this genre. For example NME magazine also produces: NME Radio – a station which plays music regularly featured in the magazine NME TV – a music channel which features artists regularly featured in the magazine NME.com – a website which gives readers more detail and further links, allowing them to learn more about the artists featured in the magazine. Multi-platform distribution like this allows readers to consume the product on a higher level, increasing sales and making the general brand more popular. This would be the same case with my magazine as it is aimed at a similar audience.