The Big Issue records second consecutive yearly sales increase

The Big Issue is celebrating today with news of a boost in its weekly circulation.

The magazine has recorded a five per cent increase in sales for 2016, rising to 82,294 copies sold each week.

Released today, the publishing industry’s annual ABC audit of sales figures show that The Big Issue has once again bucked the industry trend to enjoy a significant growth for the second consecutive year.

It’s a joy to be able to announce that our ABC figure has risen again

This increase also saw Big Issue vendors across Britain collectively earned a staggering £5.5 million – a lift of £266,000 on the previous year.

This achievement comes after a hugely significant year for The Big Issue. In 2016, we marked  200 million sales of the magazine in Britain, celebrated our landmark  25th birthday, and Big Issue editor Paul McNamee was  named Editor of the Year at the British Society of Magazine Editor Awards. This industry recognition adds to a significant collection of other editorial and design awards in recent years.

“It’s a joy to be able to announce that our ABC figure has risen again,” said UK editor Paul McNamee (above).

“This sales increase is testament to the tireless work of the teams who produce and distribute the magazine each week, and of our vendors’ incredible smarts and focus.”

He said the increasing public profile of The Big Issue has helped to get across the magazine’s mission: giving marginalised people who sell it a hand up, not a handout, with dignity and a range of work skills that help them get back on their feet. He also recognised that  John Bird entering the House of Lords has helped to put issues around poverty and homeless firmly on the agenda.

“Having John Bird as our figurehead in the Lords, setting agendas on poverty prevention that others follow, is already making difference,” he added.

“Rest assured, we are not idling, we will push harder.  A new website will appear soon, that will help spread our mission further, and we are looking to make the magazine work better for all our readers, and most importantly, to give our vendors an even stronger change to work their way back into society.”