The Press of Atlantic City: A Legacy of South Jersey Journalism
The Press of Atlantic City stands as the fourth-largest daily newspaper in New Jersey, serving as the primary news source for the Jersey Shore and southeastern New Jersey. With a deep-rooted history in the region, the publication provides essential coverage for a market stretching from Waretown in southern Ocean County down to Cape May, extending westward into Cumberland County.
While it began as a traditional broadsheet—a large-format newspaper—the publication has evolved to meet the demands of the digital age, balancing local community reporting with a modern multi-platform delivery system.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1895 as the Daily Press.
- Current Owner: Lee Enterprises.
- Circulation: 18,294 daily (as of 2023).
- Headquarters: Linwood, New Jersey.
- Print Schedule: Published three days a week (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday) since April 2023.
- Market Reach: Southeastern New Jersey, including the Jersey Shore and Cumberland County.
Editorial Focus and Specialized Publications
The newspaper prioritizes local and regional issues, placing a heavy emphasis on community events and school news, particularly high school sports. While it maintains a "Nation & World" page within its Money section for broader news, its core strength lies in hyper-local reporting. In recent years, the publication has expanded its sports coverage to include college football.
Beyond the daily news, the organization produces several niche publications and guides to serve the tourist-heavy region:
- At The Shore: An entertainment guide in tabloid format, distributed every Thursday with additional bulk drops at tourist locations.
- Specialty Magazines: Including Bliss (a semi-annual bridal magazine), Real Estate Monthly, Summer Fun, and living guides for Atlantic and Cape May counties.
- Branded Editions: Press Extra and Sunday Saver, which offer limited regional coverage.
Evolution of Ownership and Operations
Founded in 1895 by Walter Edge as the Atlantic City Daily Press, the paper underwent several name changes before adopting its current title in 1988. Its ownership history reflects the broader consolidation of the American media industry.
After being owned by Rolland L. Adams from 1951 to 1964, the paper was acquired by the Pittsburgh-based Abarta Corporation. In August 2013, BH Media (a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway) purchased the asset for $9.6 million. BH Media further expanded its local footprint by acquiring the Current, Gazette, and Atlantic City Weekly between 2014 and 2015. In 2020, Lee Enterprises acquired BH Media, becoming the current owner.
Operational shifts have also mirrored industry trends. The paper closed its Pleasantville printing facility in 2014, later moving production to a Gannett plant in Rockaway. Most recently, as of April 3, 2023, the paper transitioned to a three-day print schedule with delivery handled by the U.S. Postal Service rather than independent carriers.
Digital Transition and Subscription Models
The Press of Atlantic City was a pioneer in the New Jersey market, becoming the first daily newspaper in the state to implement a paid content model for its website on October 15, 2011.
Today, the paper utilizes an "All Access Pass" model, which integrates print and digital subscriptions into a single price point. Readers can access a replica e-edition—a digital version that mimics the physical layout of the paper—alongside standard web content. To encourage subscriptions, the site typically allows users to view up to five pages for free before requiring a paid account.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Publisher | Paul Farrell |
| Current Editor | W.F. Keough |
| Print Format | Broadsheet |
| Digital Access | Paid subscription (All Access Pass) |
| Daily Print Rate | $1.00 (Standard) / $2.00 (Sunday) |
Frequently Asked Questions
How often is the print edition published?
Since April 3, 2023, the print edition is published three days a week, specifically on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
Who currently owns The Press of Atlantic City?
The newspaper is owned by Lee Enterprises, which acquired it following the purchase of BH Media in 2020.
What is the "All Access Pass"?
The All Access Pass is a subscription model introduced in May 2013 that provides readers with access to news across all platforms—both print and digital—for a single price.
What geographic areas does the newspaper cover?
The paper serves southeastern New Jersey and the Jersey Shore, covering the area from Waretown in southern Ocean County down to Cape May, and extending west into Cumberland County.
How is the print edition delivered?
The print edition is currently delivered via the U.S. Postal Service, replacing the previous system of newspaper carriers.