Rolling Stone International to expand footprint across APAC with new investments

Rolling Stone International will be expanding its footprint with new investments slated across Asia Pacific and the United Kingdom throughout 2019. The expansion will focus on growing the brand's global audience by increasing local music and entertainment editorial coverage, and community engagement in key markets outside of the United States, as well as delivering globally relevant quality content. Other plans include regular live events in core international locations. In line with its growth plans, Rolling Stone International is currently calling for staff writers and content creators across four locations such as Singapore, Jakarta, London and Sydney. This follows news of PT a&e Media, publisher of Rolling Stone Indonesia magazine and Rolling Stone.co.id, shutting down the publication in the country last year. According to a notice on its website at that time, the publisher revealed that it no longer held the license of both the magazine and website to operate in the jurisdiction on the Indonesian state. The expansion is also in addition to Rolling Stone International's existing licensee partnerships in Germany, Italy, France, Japan, Argentina, Brazil, Colombia and Mexico. Meng Ru Kuok, CEO of Rolling Stone International said that the brand is looking to strengthen and expand with greater focus and coverage on local music culture and creativity in more markets around the world. He added that the brand sees potential in solidifying its position in APAC. "Although Rolling Stone's roots are firmly planted in American pop culture, the brand has been a global driving force -- both by reporting on and influencing the world's music trends. We're investing in editorial and launching dedicated digital experiences because we understand the critical importance of having local journalists with their fingers on the pulse of local music scenes. We're excited to be building a team of relevant, experienced voices on local music, culture and entertainment to dig up unique stories for a wider global audience," Kuok said. Last year, Rolling Stone also partnered with BandLab Technologies, to expand Rolling Stone’s business in new markets, and propel the brand’s global evolution. BandLab Technologies will also take a 49% minority stake in Rolling Stone, alongside parent company Wenner Media. Through this partnership, Rolling Stone International, a fully-owned subsidiary, will be formed to build on the brand’s worldwide appeal and recognition. Working closely with Rolling Stone’s New York-based team, Kuok will lead Rolling Stone International, to be headquartered in Singapore.