Observer Makes Transition To Berliner Format

Yesterday saw the Observer follow its weekday counterpart the Guardian in switching to Berliner format, ending the paper’s life as a fully-fledged broadsheet.

The switch, backed by a high profile TV campaign, also sees the paper move to full colour publishing. The redesign sees the Business & Media and Cash sections merge, forming a business and personal finance section, while existing sections such as Escape, Review and Sport remain.

It remains to be seen whether the changes will have the same positive effect as on the Guardian’s circulation following its relaunch last year (see Guardian’s Berliner Continues Sales Increase). The latest ABC figures show the Observer’s circulation declining year on year, shedding 5% in November 05 to total 436,882.

The new design was described as “modern, punchy and engaging” by Roger Alton, editor of the paper, who will be eager to emulate the Guardian’s sales increase of 6.3% year on year in November.

The Observer: 020 7478 5240 www.observer.co.uk