What remains of '20 Minutes'?
Today marks the end of an era for Swiss print media as 20 Minuten publishes its final edition. The free commuter newspaper, first launched in 1999, has struggled to stay relevant in a digital-first world. Industry experts now reflect on its rise, impact, and eventual decline.
20 Minuten began its journey on December 13, 1999, quickly becoming a staple for Swiss commuters. Its free distribution model and concise news format made it a daily habit for thousands. Within six months, major brands started advertising in its pages, proving its early success.
The newspaper’s greatest achievement was dominating the commuter market, offering a quick, portable read. Yet, as digital news grew, its print model faced mounting pressure. The shift to free online content made it harder for print editions to justify costs or attract paying readers. Matthias Ackeret, publisher and editor-in-chief of *persönlich.com*, was part of the team that launched *20 Minuten*. With a background in media—including *Radio Munot* and *Tele Züri*—he acknowledges the paper’s legacy but notes its failure to adapt swiftly enough. The commuter format, once revolutionary, now feels outdated in an age of smartphones and instant updates. Print media still holds a unique charm, offering a tangible, self-contained experience. But for *20 Minuten*, the challenges of digital competition and changing reader habits proved insurmountable.
The shutdown of 20 Minuten’s print edition leaves a gap in Switzerland’s media landscape. Its exit highlights the broader struggle of traditional newspapers to survive in a fast-moving digital world. The final issue serves as a reminder of how quickly media consumption has transformed over the past two decades.
