Complex Media shuts down print magazine after 14 years
The current December 2016/January 2017 issue will be the magazine's last
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Your support makes all the difference.After 14 years, Complex Media is killing its bi-monthly print edition to go all-digital and focus on its growing video platform, according to internal sources who spoke to Billboard.
On Wednesday, the company informed its staff that the December 2016/January 2017 issue, featuring Pusha T and Sofia Richie, would be its last. It's currently unclear exactly how many staffers were laid off as cuts hit the art, marketing, sales, and editorial department.
"As Complex embarks on a rapid expansion of premium video creation across the company’s networks and with a growing list of distribution partners, the company is reallocating certain positions to address its content needs," the company said in a statement to Billboard. "We’re deeply committed to the ongoing evolution of our brand and our long-term plan to be a leader in digital video entertainment. While we’re reducing staff in some areas, we plan to increase to meet our needs in others."
Several staffers from the editorial department publicly announced that they were laid off on Twitter.
Marc Ecko founded the media company back in 2002 and the bi-monthly magazine has primarily focused on pop culture and hip-hop. Earlier this year, it’s network of blogging websites were acquired by Hearst and Verizon in a deal reportedly worth between $250-300 million.