When rivals unite: A historic partnership for the future of local news
Beginning this September, The Spokesman-Review — an enduring pillar of Eastern Washington journalism since 1883 — will be printed by the Hagadone Media Group’s North Idaho Production Center in Coeur d’Alene. This move follows the planned closure of Northwest Offset Printing, Cowles Company’s commercial printing division. With this change, Hagadone Media Group becomes the proud production partner for one of the most recognizable daily newspapers in the Pacific Northwest.
But this announcement is more than just a change in print logistics — it marks a pivotal moment for local journalism in the Inland Northwest. Two family-owned, locally committed media companies, longtime competitors, are choosing to work together for a greater purpose: maintaining trusted local news.
A historic rivalry, reimagined
For over 50 years, Cowles and Hagadone have fiercely competed — from breaking news to securing advertising deals. Both organizations have motivated each other to become better, more vibrant storytellers in the Spokane-Coeur d’Alene area.
Yet we are living in a different time.
Across the country, more than two newspapers close each week. Tens of thousands of journalists have left the profession. Entire communities have become “news deserts” — areas without reliable local reporting. And with every shuttered newsroom, democracy itself is weakened.
That’s not the future we want here. We are choosing a different path — one built on foresight, mutual respect, and investment. The Cowles family recently announced a nonprofit ownership model for The Spokesman-Review, reaffirming the civic importance of journalism. Meanwhile, Hagadone Corporation is expanding its print operations and further investing in regional journalism across Idaho, Montana, and Washington.
A partnership built on shared vision
To ensure this partnership succeeds, the North Idaho Production Center plans to hire 10–15 experienced team members from the departing Northwest Offset Printing facility. This not only maintains important local jobs but also bolsters our operation with knowledge and skill.
We are investing in new insertion and post-press equipment, which will effectively double our production capacity. This expansion ensures that we can deliver The Spokesman-Review and all of our current client publications with the same high level of quality, consistency, and timeliness that our partners expect. Additionally, we are undertaking a thorough restructuring of our press and delivery schedules to protect the editorial integrity and deadline flexibility of every title we serve, including The Coeur d’Alene/Post Falls Press, The Shoshone News-Press, Bonner County Daily Bee, Columbia Basin Herald, Bonners Ferry Herald, and other titles across the region.
Our leadership teams are also working together to find more opportunities for innovation, efficiency, and regional collaboration. These actions show bold, strategic thinking — exactly what’s needed for family-owned local media companies to not just survive but to evolve and thrive.
Protecting the heartbeat of communities
Ultimately, this goes beyond press schedules and equipment upgrades. It’s about protecting the mission of local journalism.
Our newspapers serve as community voices, watchdogs, and record keepers. We celebrate hometown victories, mourn community losses, spotlight everyday heroes, confront those who do wrong, and reflect the character of the towns we call home. However, micro-local journalism — the kind that covers city council meetings, high school championships, local parades, and the issues that matter most at home — is disappearing in many areas.
That’s the kind of journalism that earns trust and encourages civic participation. That’s the journalism we’re fighting for. And that’s why this partnership matters.
A shared future, rooted in legacy and purpose
Both the Cowles and Hagadone families have played key roles in shaping the media landscape of the Inland Northwest. While our names appear on different mastheads, our shared belief in journalism's transformative power unites us.
In 2025, we honor that legacy not by looking back but by moving forward. This isn’t just a printing agreement; it’s a strategic alliance that shows what’s possible when competitors collaborate, when legacy combines with innovation, and when leaders prioritize their communities.
To the Cowles family, the leadership, and the staff of The Spokesman-Review — thank you for your vision and trust.
To our readers, thank you for your ongoing support: your subscriptions, calls, encouragement, and accountability drive everything we do. With partners like these by our side, we will continue to serve you for many years to come.
Clint Schroeder
President & Executive Publisher
Hagadone Newspaper & Media Groups
Duane Hagadone
William H. Cowles Sr.