We have just finalized the results of the 1984 PLAIN TRUTH Newsstand Distribution Survey. The number of outlets worldwide has increased from 20,000 in 1983 to over 25,000 in 1984. We have also seen an increase in the number of brethren involved in the Member Participation Programs. In 1983 total manpower stood at 7,000 worldwide. It now stands at just over 10,000. The addition of the "Good Neighbor" supermarket distribution, lighted airport display islands, additional Elson's gift shops and the new brochure distribution program have all contributed to additional Church member involvement.
Following is a list of types of outlets and their percentages of newsstand distribution. It is not comprehensive, but it will give you an idea of which outlets are distributing some of the highest percentages of magazines.
Number of Outlets - Type - Percentage of Distribution
In the survey we also asked the following questions:
1. Is there an average length of time a newsstand display/rack stays in an outlet?
YES — 12.3%, average two months - NO — 36.3%
Cannot ascertain — 47.8% - Did not answer — 3.7%
2. Have you experienced an increase in the amount of persecution against PLAIN TRUTH newsstand distribution in the past 6 to 12 months?
YES — 30.6% - N0 — 65% - Did not answer — 4 .4%
3. How many magazines go undistributed each month due to theft, vandalism, or damage?
The average loss was 60 copies per month per church area. This would result in a total loss of 24,600 copies per month, equaling 1.2% of the two million magazines distributed monthly.
Overall, the results of the survey were very encouraging. We plan to conduct another, more comprehensive newsstand survey in 1985.
PUBLISHING SERVICES UPDATE
Worldwide Church of God