The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Makes Historic Transition to Digital-Only Publication as Print Era Comes to an End

Atlanta’s renowned newspaper, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC), has announced a transition into digital-only publishing, set to commence on January 1, 2026. This shift will mark the conclusion of physical newspaper editions as of December 31.

The transformation aims to reposition AJC as a modern media company, enabling investment in journalism and optimizing resources for digital delivery. The increasing preference for digital consumption has outpaced print circulation, a trend that is rapidly accelerating.

In a statement to readers, Andrew Morse, President and Publisher of AJC, expressed enthusiasm about the focus on digital journalism: “By embracing our digital future, we can channel every resource towards producing world-class journalism in the most impactful manner.”

Despite abandoning physical media, AJC will continue to offer an ePaper and launch an app this fall. The transition follows a two-year period of enhancements to digital services, including upgraded newsroom facilities, revamped digital product offerings, and the introduction of consumer-focused digital products such as newsletters, podcasts, and original video content.

Expansion beyond Atlanta is also on the horizon, with new offices in Athens, Macon, and Savannah slated for operation. The AJC’s digital transformation has led to “double-digit digital subscriber growth” and increased reach in key content areas, according to a statement from the publication.

Alex Taylor, Chair and CEO of Cox Enterprises—AJC’s parent company—viewed the change as an essential step in AJC’s evolution: “The importance of journalism to our community and society is undeniable, and so is the means by which we produce it. I’m proud of our team for making these decisions, despite missing the nostalgia of the morning newspaper.”

This digital-only shift reflects a broader trend among periodicals, as dwindling physical circulation, declining ad revenue from print, and high production and distribution costs have made it challenging for many publications to justify maintaining a physical format over the past decade. The Star Ledger of New Jersey ceased its print edition entirely in February, while Iowa’s Dubuque Telegraph Herald and Cedar Rapids Gazette reduced their physical circulation to three days per week in January.

However, there are exceptions to this trend, particularly for niche audiences. For instance, The Onion revived its physical newspaper in August 2024 and has since seen success with print editions. Some magazines, often perceived as premium experiences, have also experienced a resurgence after years of struggle. In mid-August, The Spectator announced plans to double the print output of its US edition this fall as part of a relaunch.