Lokmat Media unveils new look for its Marathi newspaper, Lokmat

The newspaper now features new sections with fresh content, in a bid to be more reader-friendly.

In a bid to maintain its reader connect and sustain brand credibility, Lokmat Media has unveiled a new look for its Marathi daily, Lokmat, in both format and presentation. With the new look, new sections have also been introduced that include new sports and business pages.

Dinkar Raikar, group editor, Lokmat Media, says that according to the new editorial policy, the effort will be to try and follow a positive tone with a focus on positive stories.

The changes in the pages include shorter stories, a Maharashtra centrespread with zonal news, statistics where possible, a discussion forum -- Khuli Charcha -- to integrate and converge with the online website and improved quality of coverage. The sports page will also focus on local sports and inter-school tournaments.

The changes are the result of a study that compiled feedback on satisfaction levels with existing content, the need gaps, look and feel, and the perception in readers' minds.

"A paper with layers, easy on the eye, smooth transition within pages, and content that will support reader aspirations is what has been achieved. As a market leader, with constant change, we will continue to target believers and thinkers who are the main segments of our readership and thereby increase the loyalty base," says Mandir Tendolkar, vice-president, marketing, Lokmat Media.

Sanjeev Nair, head of the in-house design team, adds, "Our redesign is contemporary and elegant, and the newspaper is easily navigable. A defined colour palette makes the pages more attractive and disciplined."

He says that a smart story hierarchy has been created, allowing a smooth transition from the lead, second lead, and single column and anchor stories on the page, resulting in 35 per cent more space that would facilitate more content.

In order to strengthen its presence in other parts of Maharashtra, Lokmat Media has also announced the launch of its Hindi daily, Lokmat Samachar, from Jalgaon and Lokmat City Express, a Marathi tabloid, from Aurangabad.