TWO NEW LICENSED MAGS FOR THAILAND

Two local language editions of global magazines made their debuts in Thailand last weekend.
Martha Stewart Living is published by Post Publishing and sells for 100 baht. The debut November edition runs to 168 pages, a mere 16 of which would appear to be paid-for advertising. The magazine is bright and airy, and looks to be taking most of its content from the U.S. parent edition. I'm assuming the level of local content will increase over time.
When this deal was announced in mid-August I questioned whether Martha Stewart has any kind of brand image in Thailand? Nothing I've learned since then has changed my view that she's not significantly well known here to make this magazine compulsory reading. I've shown this magazine to a few people in the last couple of days and their reaction has always been "Who is Martha Stewart?'
Also making its debut this week is the Thai edition of the popular football magazine Four Four Two. This is also the 12th edition of this magazine brand to appear around the world.
Published by Plus One, the debut November edition sells for 100 baht and contains 126 pages - just 13 of which would appear to be revenue-generating.
This magazine appears to include a much greater percentage of local content. There's an interview with British Ambassador and West Brom fan Quinton Quayle, as well as a decent level of coverage from the Thai Premier League and cup final.
One criticism, which can be leveled at a lot of magazines, is the increasing amount of "lifestyle" content appearing. It's included because, in many cases, advertisers demand it but it detracts from the overall concept, in my view.