Adams MultiMedia, a Minnesota-based media company, is set to acquire the Cedar Rapids Gazette along with 11 community newspapers in Iowa. The announcement was made earlier this week, revealing a significant move in the local journalism landscape. The purchase agreement, which involves Tom Pientok, president and CEO of Folience Inc., and Mark Adams, president and CEO of Adams MultiMedia, is expected to be finalized by December 1.
This acquisition will see most employees of the Gazette transitioning to Adams MultiMedia. The deal ensures that the newspaper remains under the ownership of a family-held company, a structure that aligns with the Gazette’s 143-year history. Founded in 1883, the Gazette publishes a daily digital edition and offers print editions three times a week. It is currently part of the employee-owned group Folience.
Pientok emphasized the challenges facing media companies across the United States, stating, “We’ve been incredibly fortunate to have some of the most dedicated, talented, and award-winning journalists delivering exceptional coverage to our community for more than 140 years. In today’s environment, sustaining a 100% independent newspaper has become increasingly difficult.” He expressed confidence in the partnership with Adams MultiMedia, aiming to preserve the voice of the community and strengthen local journalism.
Adams MultiMedia’s acquisition includes not just the Cedar Rapids Gazette but also an array of community newspaper titles and three community shopper publications. The additional titles include the Southeast Iowa Union, Hometown Current, Washington Evening Journal, Mount Pleasant News, Fairfield Ledger, Marengo Pioneer Republican, Williamsburg Journal Tribune, Poweshiek County Chronicle Republican, Winfield Beacon – Wayland News, New London Journal, and Pekin Clarion Plainsman.
Founded in 2014, Adams Publishing now operates over 120 newspapers and more than 220 media-related and associated digital products across 19 states in the U.S. Mark Adams noted the significance of the acquisition, stating, “We’ve considered dozens of news organizations in recent years, and I can say with utmost confidence that very few have come with the credibility and promise that we have here today. The Gazette and its commitment to serving the local community – strong journalism and unmatched local business relationships – was a no-brainer for us.”
This acquisition marks Adams MultiMedia’s entry into the Iowa market, expanding its presence beyond its existing titles in states including Alabama, Florida, Minnesota, and Virginia. The strategic move reflects a growing trend in the media industry where consolidation efforts aim to bolster local journalism against increasing challenges.
As the transaction progresses, the focus will remain on maintaining the quality and integrity of local news coverage in Iowa, ensuring that the community continues to receive relevant and timely information through its local newspapers.
