The idea is a success: Our Friends of the Aachener Zeitung (Aachen Newspaper) association has been active since autumn 2020, and now boasts over 6,500 subscribers as dedicated members. They appreciate the opportunities we offer them – especially the chance to delve deeper into editorial content and to connect with one another. The Friends of the Aachener Zeitung fosters a sense of community, developing into a place where everyone interacts as equals.
When we launch the Friends of the Aachener Zeitung's digital forums two to three evenings a week, we delve deeper into regional topics that have already generated interest in our newspapers or online platforms through expert discussions. Whether it's the sluggish expansion of the Aachen motorway interchange, COVID-19 vaccinations, or the current crisis at Alemannia Aachen, whether it's an interview with the Minister-President, a live link to the AZ/AN correspondent covering the US election in Washington, an entertaining evening with cabaret artist Jürgen Beckers, or a meeting with the Rector of RWTH Aachen University – the Friends of the Aachener Zeitung's offerings are diverse, current, and exclusive.
Looking ahead to the coming months, we aim to attract even more members to our Friends Circle, as our offering is open to all subscribers, whether they read the print or digital daily newspaper or use our online portals. The in-depth discussions offered through the forums will also be expanded – as soon as the situation allows – to include in-person meetings, which foster an additional sense of community and provide a valuable boost. This will also allow us to resume offering interesting tours, for example, to regional companies, cultural centers, or university institutes.
"With the Friends Circle, we've launched an exclusive additional offering, making the subscription even more attractive. And we at the entire Aachen media group are delighted with the tremendous response," says Nele Toye, Head of Reader Marketing.
Editor-in-Chief Thomas Thelen adds: "We've always wanted to engage more with our readers. And the Friends Circle now offers this in an unprecedented way and with a new frequency." He describes it as "both an enrichment and a challenge."
The Friends of the Zan Association receive a newsletter every Friday with information about the upcoming week's events, special offers, and benefits. More information about the Friends of the Zan Association: www.azan-freundeskreis.de
