Are Media has partnered with Australian Geographic to launch a retail promotion across Woolworths stores as part of its ongoing support of the magazine category and retailers.

The Woolworths exclusive promotion pairs six collectable Australian Geographic mini block toys with a magazine purchase. These children’s toys raise awareness of endangered and extinct Australian animals, many as a result of recent bushfires, and can be purchased for $2.50 with the Australian Geographic or any Are Media magazine.

During the activation, Are Media will feature copies of Australian Geographic on its premium display units located at the front of Woolworth stores, giving the niche magazine increased prominence and exposure to customers in store.

Sally Eagle, customer director at Are Media said: “As category leader, it is incumbent on us to support other magazine publishers and the entire magazine category, particularly Australian made magazines and of course the retailers which are so vital to our collective success in connecting our brands with audiences across the country. We’re delighted to be working with Australian Geographic and Woolworths on the first of planned partnerships with other publishers and retailers.”

Jo Runciman, managing director at Australian Geographic added: “Australian Geographic is excited to be working with Are Media on a retail promotion that puts both magazines and education around Australia’s endangered animals front and centre. For stand-alone smaller publishers, the opportunity to collaborate with market leaders such as Are Media is vital to ensure the growth and strength of the category overall.”

Following the current Australian Geographic promotion, Are Media is set to partner with News Corp for a joint activation with Delicious magazine brand across Coles supermarkets.

Eagle was promoted to the newly created customer director role in November last year with a mandate to forge closer retail relationships with supermarkets and newsagents to drive sales of the entire magazine category, which has been identified as a priority for Are Media.