Social Media Week Lagos

Media companies around the world have seen paid subscriptions surge - can this revenue model be replicated successfully in the African context? The theme of SMW Lagos 2017 is “Closer,” which is fitting, because one of the most interesting things happening in media today is the growth of paid memberships in media communities. 


Whether it’s the venerable New York Times, or new disruptors like The Information, more media companies are learning how to turn drive-by viewers - who consume content for free - into loyal audiences who make recurring payments in return for access. Not only do these companies secure predictable revenue every month, subscriptions deepen the relationship between publisher and community member.


Can this model work in our African context? Would African audiences pay a subscription for content? The answer is a resounding yes, and 5 companies at the forefront of experimenting with subscription payments will show us how.