Free Press Transform

Subscriber FAQs

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I am a loyal subscriber - why are you doing this?

Economics. Advertising in this economy is down. Costs are up. Because of the difficult situation facing all businesses and the fact that readership of newspapers across the country has for years been declining, these changes will more directly address the way audiences choose to receive news and information.

I am your customer and I really want my newspaper delivered all seven days. Why can't you do that?

We understand your concerns, and that is why we will continue to print newspapers every day. Subscribers will have access to an electronic "e-edition" seven days a week as part of their subscription. This "e-edition" allows you to see an exact copy of the newspaper - including all the advertising - on your computer. It can be printed out, and will include many additional features such as the ability to change print size, language, and search for specific content relevant to you.

You can experience the sharply improved e-edition online for free by visiting www.edetroitnews.com or www.digitalfreepress.com.

Can I make a separate arrangement with my carrier to deliver the newspaper to my home all seven days?

The Detroit Media Partnership has no plans to offer for sale bulk copies on days without home delivery.

Where can I find single copy editions?

There are more than 18,000 Free Press and Detroit News retail locations and coin boxes throughout Michigan. Some common stores include CVS, Speedway and other gas stations, 7-11, Kroger and most other grocery stores. For a complete list or the location nearest to you, please go to www.freep.com/transform or www.detnews.com/transform.

Why were Thursday, Friday and Sunday selected as the days for home delivery?

Sunday is currently our largest newspaper of the week, with the highest readership. On Thursday and Friday, readers are increasingly using the newspapers to plan their weekends, and the Play and My Time entertainment sections are popular because of this trend. As we currently operate, we also know from spending patterns and from discussions with advertisers that the widest distribution on these days is an important component of their sales and promotional strategies.

Why weren't the prices of home delivery increased to keep seven-day delivery?

Experience and reader feedback tell us that many readers would cancel their subscriptions if prices were raised, and there would not have been enough revenue to support our vast seven-day home delivery operations. In the past, advertising revenue has been strong enough to subsidize home delivery costs; this is no longer the case, we do not see this changing in the future.

As a subscriber, where can I go to find information on how the changes will affect my subscription, or to find out more information about new products and developments?

All subscribers will receive personalized letters notifying them of their subscription payment status, as well as specific options available to them. Additional information is available on each newspaper's Web sites at www.freep.com/transform and www.detnews.com/transform.

What will the newly-designed print editions be like?

This is still a work in progress. Each newsroom will share more with you as we approach implementing these changes. In the meantime, go to www.freep.com/transform and www.detnews.com/transform for status reports - and to provide your own thoughts and ideas.

Who receives my comments after I've posted them? Will someone respond to me if I submit a comment or question?

All comments and suggestions will be shared with those planning the changes at the respective newspapers, and we'll use the Web sites to share answers to the questions we get. These sites will continue to evolve and be updated as a way to consistently gain feedback from readers like you.

The electronic editions sound interesting but what if I don't have access to a computer?

For those who do not have access to the Internet, there are more than 18,000 convenient locations throughout Michigan where people can buy the Detroit Free Press and The Detroit News seven days a week. Some of these locations include Kroger, Meijer, Speedway, CVS, Wal-greens, 7-11 and stores like them. The circulation department is always looking for new locations and welcomes your suggestions.

Mail subscription packages are also available on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday.

Why would I pay for the electronic edition when I can get the Web site for free?

The e-edition is an exact copy of the printed newspaper. Both freep.com and detnews.com are constantly updated and refreshed throughout the day and include interactive features such as video and audio presentations, photo galleries and the ability to post comments.

Will I continue to get my weekend insert package on Saturday?

No. This will arrive on Sunday.

When will I get the Homestyle section?

This has not yet been determined. Once it has we will share the information.

I only want the Sunday newspaper - why can't I just get that?

You can. All subscribers will receive a personalized letter soon explaining your subscription status and options available including subscribing on Sundays only.

What is the cost?

All subscribers will receive customized letters within the next 60 days notifying them of their subscription payment status, as well as specific options available to them. The new standard rates will be $12.00 per month in metro Detroit and $14.00 in the outstate area.

I've paid my invoice in advance - what will happen now?

All subscribers will receive customized letters within the next 60 days notifying them of their subscription payment status, as well as specific options available to them.

I have an invoice that is billed after the conversion date - what do I do?

Please remit payment as it is on your current invoice. Your subscription end date will be adjusted based on the new delivery dates.