Metro New York, MTA revamp newspaper distribution plan at subway stations

Metro New York and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority have announced an agreement that will allow Metro to be distributed inside subway stations using newly designed racks.

Following years of planning, an agreement has been made between Metro New York and the MTA that allows the free daily newspaper to be made available inside subway stations across New York City.

The new distribution plan — similar to those used in London, Stockholm and Hong Kong — comes after a successful three-year pilot program that used 42 racks at eight subway stations.

“I am excited about our distribution agreement with the MTA, which will bring mutual benefits to both organizations and New Yorkers,” said Yggers Mortensen, CEO of Metro US. “A strong partnership with the transportation authority is how Metro was started 20 years ago in Stockholm. Across the world, it has proven to be the most effective way to distribute free dailies in large metropolises and the preferred way for commuters to grab their daily paper. We are glad to finally introduce the model to New York for the benefits of our readers and advertisers alike.”

Subway riders will now be able to grab a copy of the Metro newspaper at 100 stations, with a total of 285 Metro racks expected to be installed this summer.

The racks — which can hold up to 700 papers — will give readers the opportunity to pick up copies of Metro New York throughout the entire day, regardless of the weather.

“This is a great opportunity for our advertisers. Distributing within the MTA network is the fastest route to reach our commuter target audience in New York,” said Ed Abrams, Metro New York Associate Publisher.

Even though newspapers will be available on the racks, Metro will still be using hand promoters at other key city locations such as Herald Square, Lower Manhattan, Port Authority, SOHO and beyond.

“Hand promotion will continue to be a key ingredient in Metro’s distribution,” Mortensen said.