The Scotsman’s Pulse magazine earmarked for closure

A FREE monthly magazine produced by The Scotsman’s publishers, Johnston Press, has been earmarked for closure.

The Pulse is described as “a monthly, seasonal celebration of the very best [Edinburgh] has to offer”.

But according to a message issue to staff, it “has struggled throughout the year to achieve expected advertising revenues”.

It was distributed to shops and pubs in the city.

The consultation period involving any affected staff is expected to be completed by the 12th of next month.

It is not known how many editorial posts will be affected. The memo continues: “In the event this proposal goes ahead, the company will endeavour to minimise the impact of the proposal through voluntary redundancy and re-deployment to alternative positions within the company and the group.”

In a separate development, Johnston Press, is to host its own, in-house media awards, echoing a recent similar initiative by News International in Scotland.

It is understood, however, that the move will not jeopardise the publisher’s involvement in the likes of the Scottish Press Awards where, earlier this year, The Scotsman was named Newspaper of the Year.

The first Johnston Group Awards are scheduled for March 14, in Peterborough.

NB In an earlier version of this story, it was suggested The Pulse magazine was issued, free with The Scotsman. Instead, it was distributed, free around Edinburgh.