National Geographic World Changes Name, Accepts Ads
National Geographic World, the magazine dedicated to teaching children about science and technology for the past 26 years, will relaunch under a new title, National Geographic Kids, in October. For the first time in its quarter century history, the magazine will carry display advertising and parents will be able to find it on the newsstand.
Prior to running display advertising, the magazine generated revenue from corporate funding, but associate publisher, Rainer Jenss, said the change in policy was another way to invest in the product, grow circulation and expand editorial topics. Its current circulation tops out at 700,000.
The magazine will target eight- to 14-year-olds, as did National Geographic World, giving life to geography, exploration and science through kid-friendly features. The magazine also includes current events, entertainment, culture and animal related topics.
"We have the resources and staff to make National Geographic Kids the most successful children's magazine in America," said John Griffin, executive vice president of National Geographic.
In addition to the magazine, the Society's school publishing division makes an array of products for the classroom including a nonfiction literacy program and a classroom-based magazine that will also launch under a new title, National Geographic Explore!, in the fall of 2002.
Melina Gerosa Bellows remains the publication's editor-in-chief.
