Food lovers around the world undoubtedly maintained a moment of silence yesterday (October 5) after Condé Nast announced that it would be closing Gourmet magazine, which launched in 1941 along with three other magazines.
Said a memo released by Condé Nast CEO Chuck Townsend: "Gourmet magazine will cease monthly publication, but we will remain committed to the brand, retaining Gourmet's book publishing and television programming, and Gourmet recipes on Epicurious.com. We will concentrate our publishing activities in the epicurean category on Bon Appétit."
Condé Nast Closes Gourmet Magazine
There had been speculation about one of Condé Nast's food titles closing, but most assumed it would be Gourmet's younger sister Bon Appétit. Regarding the decision, the statement added: "These changes, combined with cost and workforce reductions now underway throughout the company, will speed the recovery of our current businesses and enable us to pursue new ventures."
Known for its perfect mix of recipes, travel-related articles and in-depth look at the politics revolving around the food world, Gourmet was considered a bible by many amateur and professional food enthusiasts. An update from Drew Schutte, senior vice president and chief revenue officer at Condé Nast Digital said that the magazine's website Gourmet.com would continue to function "at least through the end of the year." The other titles that also received the axe were Modern Bride, Elegant Bride and Cookie.
Editor Ruth Reichl Reacts
Gourmet's editor for the past decade has been Ruth Reichl, who is one of the most recognisable names in the international food arena and was a former restaurant critic for The New York Times. She posted her reaction via her Twitter account saying: "Thank you all SO [sic] much for this outpouring of support. It means a lot. Sorry not to be posting now, but I'm packing. We're all stunned, sad."
The Internet was rife with blog posts and comments about the news, most of which noted that it was a sad day indeed in the culinary world. Bad boy chef, author and television personality Anthony Bourdain was quoted by the Associated Press in an article on MSNBC.com saying: "It's the center of gravity, a major planet that's just disappearing. There's been a lot of speculation about this happening, but I'm still stunned." Even American singer and song writer Michelle Branch expressed her opinion on the situation tweeting: "First Domino and now Gourmet. What the hell!!?? Let's have a moment of silence.""
Another Twitter post by Reichl on October 6 read: "Dishes done. All gone. Great gathering at the house tonight. I so love the people I've worked with at Gourmet. Hard to believe it's over."
Most dedicated readers must feel the same way.
 |
