Cowles Enthusiast Media Acquires Climbing Magazine

Posted on August 12, 1997

Cowles Enthusiast Media announced it has acquired Climbing magazine from Elk Mountain Press Inc., Carbondale, CO. The announcement was made by Philip L. Penny, president of CEM. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.

Michael Kennedy, publisher and editor-in-chief of Climbing, stated, "Climbing is a vital, growing part of the human-powered outdoor recreation industry, and we've been with it all the way. We look forward to strengthening our leadership position and developing new market opportunities supported by Cowles' extensive resources."

Climbing was founded in 1970 by Harvey Carter, an Aspen ski patrolman and Colorado rock-climbing pioneer, and purchased two years later by Fritz Stammberger, a climber and printer, and Bil Dunaway, the editor and publisher of the Aspen Times. Michael Kennedy took over as editor and publisher in 1974, and in 1988, he acquired Climbing from the Aspen Times.

"In the past decade, we've seen explosive growth in all forms of climbing," said Kennedy, noting that since 1988, the magazine's paid circulation has more than tripled to its current level of 48,000. " Climbing's strength has always been its authoritative editorial, inspiring personal accounts, and great photography. We strive to make each issue the best we've ever done. As a result, Climbing is widely regarded as the finest technical climbing magazine in the world."

Climbing is published nine times a year, including its annual Gear Guide. Although some administrative functions will be absorbed by CEM, the editorial, design, and advertising functions will remain in Carbondale. Kennedy will remain with the publication as publisher and editor-in-chief.

Cowles Enthusiast Media Inc., is a diversified media company serving special interest markets. It comprises 28 magazines organized into four magazine groups: Healthy Lifestyles, History, Recreation and Collectibles. Additionally, the company operates speciality distribution and TV/video programming units. CEM is based in Stamford, Conn., with divisions in Harrisburg, Pa.; Leesburg, Va.; and Middlebury, Vt. It is part of Cowles Media Company, a newspaper, magazine, and information services company headquartered in Minneapolis.