Today, the independent news site for the rail freight industry, RailFreight.com, is launching a premium model. This means that articles, except for general news, will only be available to members. In this way, the editorial team aims to ensure the quality and independence of the reporting and be an even better source of information for professionals in the rail freight industry.

The premium model will be launched on 17 April through a soft launch: with a free trial. “You can sign up now with your email address and read the premium articles for free until 1 May. On 1 May, it is possible to get a paid membership for 10 euros per month. The trial subscription automatically expires that day. As a member you stay up-to-date and you are ensured to receive independent and high-quality news,” says editor-in-chief Majorie van Leijen of RailFreight.com.

When the paid membership starts, visitors cannot only read the premium articles but also receive discounts on industry events. “As a trade magazine, you want to be the connection between all stakeholders in the industry. Organising substantive events is part of that. Like the RailFreight Summit taking place in Poland this week, but there are more events coming up where members can benefit from a membership discount.”

Van Leijen thinks the introduction of the paid subscription is a logical next step for RailFreight. “It is becoming increasingly common to set up a so-called ‘paywall’ on journalistic websites. And when you think about it, it makes perfect sense: good journalism is practised by professionals. Thanks to their network and knowledge, they are able to provide the industry with the latest news and key background information every day. The best way to do that is from an independent position. And we achieve that by asking our readers to pay for this product,” says Van Leijen.