After Layoffs, Chicago Reader Survives With New Seattle-Based Owner

Noisy Creek announced its acquisition of the Chicago Reader, addressing the publication's financial difficulties following recent layoffs of six staff members. Founded in 1971, the Reader has struggled with declining readership and ad revenue since its sale by the Chicago Sun-Times in 2018. The pandemic exacerbated these challenges, prompting the paper's board to seek new ownership. Noisy Creek, established by Brady Walkinshaw, aims to revitalize alt-weeklies nationwide and has previously acquired successful publications like the Stranger and Portland Mercury. Walkinshaw affirmed that the Reader will maintain “100%” editorial independence while forming a local advisory board.

The company's innovative approach includes using revenue from its acquisitions to support local journalism. Baim, the former Reader publisher, expressed optimism about Walkinshaw's vision, noting the potential for connecting local culture with journalism through a ticketing platform. This acquisition is a critical step toward proving that alt-weeklies can achieve financial sustainability.