Fairfax Magazines to close NZ tech titles

Fairfax Magazines will resign the licences, owned by IDG, to publish technology titles Computerworld, Reseller News and PC World in New Zealand.

In a press release sent out to the media late yesterday, the organisation says the decision is based on changes driven by the current economic climate.

Reacting to the closure of the print and websites of the titles under the Fairfax banner, Fairfax Magazines general manager Lynley Belton said "As much as we regret having to make this tough decision, we believe it is in the best interest of our long-term success as a producer of quality content for New Zealanders.

Staff are being consulted about their options to remain within the company, but it does look likely that job losses will occur.

All subscribers will be contacted and refunded for issues they will not receive.

The final date of publication are: Computerworld July 1st, Reseller News July 5th and PC World July 1st.

"It's a shame for the team members involved, as they're experienced journalists and true professionals," said Sean Mitchell, publisher, TechDay.

"May 2013 has been one of TechDay's largest revenue months ever and we can see this trend continuing."

"It's a tough space in NZ and any new licensee of the IDG brands will struggle to make the mastheads work after license fees have been paid."