After 13 years in operation, the popular GEM (Guyana Entertainment Magazine) announced with “heavy heart” that it will be suspending operations in 2018.
“Declining advertising revenue and subscription sales and an unsafe environment are among the factors that have forced us to reexamine our business model for Guyana,” Founder and Publisher of the magazine Simeon Corbin said in a press release issued.
“Unfortunately, we don’t foresee any improvement in the publishing industry soon. In addition, the obvious out of control criminal activity has created a clear and immediate danger to our operation. Of course, our safety and well-being are paramount to our existence,” he further said.
The magazine thanked all of its clients, friends, writers, photographers, graphic artists, newsstands, subscribers and office staff who helped to build it and “keep Guyana’s first and only glossy lifestyle publication in operation for thirteen years.”
The owners said that it owes a huge debt of gratitude to its readers for supporting the concept to positively promote the country, by transcending race, politics, religion and class.
“Your continuous support year after year at home and in the Diaspora from issue one to issue seventy-seven is incredible,” the release said.
In the meantime, it was announced that all local and international subscribers will be reimbursed their unused portion of the subscription. The magazine said it is deeply humbled by everyone’s support, and promises and that should there be significant improvements in business and security a re-launch of the magazine will be considered.
