BBC to Launch First U.S. Magazine

‘Britishness’ of BBC Knowledge to appeal to curious minds, publisher says.

By Jason Fell
05/14/2008

BBC Worldwide, the commercial arm of the British Broadcasting Corporation, is is set to launch BBC Knowledge magazine—its first U.S. title—in August.

Published six times per year, the 100-page glossy will feature stories about history, nature and science. It will be edited by Sally Palmer, the former deputy editor of BBC’s Focus magazine. The BBC publishes a small stable of titles including BBC History magazine and BBC Wildlife.

According to BBC Magazines publishing director Andy Benham, BBC Knowledge has been positioned to capitalize on the strength of the BBC’s brand in the U.S.: “While the content will feed American interests, the Britishness and BBC-ness of the magazine are seen as being key assets, offering consumers a fresh alternative to what is currently on the market.”

BBC Knowledge will have a $5.99 cover price and will be available on newsstands and by subscription. The initial print run is 85,000.