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| One of New Media' newspapers |
News Media Corporation (NMC), an Illinois-based publisher of 21 weekly local small town newspapers, abruptly ceased operations Wednesday, creating news deserts across the West and Midwest.
In a letter to employees, CEO J.J. Thompson announced, “As of August 6, 2025, your employment with NMC and/or its affiliated companies will end permanently.”
Thompson cited financial challenges, a severe industry downturn, revenue declines, rising costs, and a failed attempt to sell the company as reasons for the closure.
“This decision was not made lightly,” he wrote, noting that all avenues to sustain operations had been explored.
Employees, blindsided by the announcement, described the closure as “the death of a thousand cuts.” One staffer, speaking to the Cowboy State Daily, expressed shock and devastation, anticipating anger to follow.
Thompson assured employees that NMC would attempt to pay earned compensation, subject to secured lenders’ approval. Healthcare coverage ended immediately on August 6, though 401k plans through The Standard remain accessible for rollover. HR support will be available until August 27.
The sudden closure has drawn criticism for its lack of warning, with employees reeling from the abrupt loss of jobs and communities left without vital local news sources.