The controversial Autosport price increase has been reversed, less than a month after a new price of £10.99 per issue was announced.

On 7 November, the magazine went on sale at its previous price of £3.99 after receiving widespread criticism for the initial hike.

The first issue at £10.99 went on sale on 10 October, meaning only four editions were available at the increased price.

Autosport attributed the price rise to “the increasing costs of maintaining a print product”, but the move saw NewsPro delist it from its mandatory ranging as a result.

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NFRN head of news and magazines Brian Murphy argued that Autosport’s behaviour was confusing consumers and contributing to falling sales.

“It is good to see that Autosport has corrected the errors of its ways – I just hope that the reverse is not too late, and that other publishers remember that the customer is king,” he added.

Following the announcement, an Autosport spokesperson told Better Retailing: “Since we announced we will be prioritising a digital-first approach, we have closely listened to feedback from our readers, many of whom have read the magazine throughout their lives.

“Throughout recent conversations it has become clear that the print edition of the magazine is not only the preferred format, but also the only format for many of our readers.

“The strong connection is clear, and we have taken the decision that for the foreseeable future we will return to a price of £3.99.”

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