Magazine publishers know that great content is only half the battle. The production process can determine whether a publication succeeds or falls short.
From layout design and flat planning to print management and digital edition creation, professional magazine production services provide the technology, expertise, and dedicated support needed to publish on time, maintain brand consistency, and deliver exceptional quality.
In this guide, we will:
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Explain the main types of magazine production services
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Share our list of the 13 best magazine production service companies, including print, digital, and full-service providers
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Answer common questions about working with production partners
Types of magazine production services
Magazine production covers a wide range of tasks that transform ideas and content into a finished publication ready for readers.
1. Digital magazine production
This service converts print-ready PDFs into mobile-optimized digital editions that are easy to read on any device. The best solutions reflow content into a single column, maintaining brand fonts and colors while enhancing the reading experience. Many also offer interactive elements, integrated article audio, and secure delivery methods that protect premium content while making access effortless for subscribers.
2. Magazine layout & design
This service ensures every page is visually compelling and aligned with your brand identity. Skilled designers handle typography, image placement, and overall composition to create a cohesive and engaging reading experience.
3. Flat planning
Flat planning is the process of mapping out each page of your magazine before production begins. It ensures that editorial content and advertisements are positioned for maximum impact and a smooth reading flow. By visualizing the entire issue in advance, publishers can catch layout conflicts early and maintain a balanced, professional presentation.
4. Printing & binding
This stage transforms your digital files into a tangible magazine, using methods such as high-volume offset printing or short-run, print-on-demand services. Publishers can select from a variety of paper stocks, finishes, and binding styles to achieve the desired look and feel.
5. Fulfillment & distribution support
Fulfillment services manage the logistics of getting your magazine into the hands of readers, whether through direct mail to subscribers, delivery to retail outlets, or distribution via digital platforms. These providers handle tasks like address management, packaging, and shipping schedules to ensure timely arrival. By outsourcing fulfillment, publishers can focus on content and strategy while maintaining a reliable reader experience.
6. Back issue digitization
This service transforms print archives into searchable, accessible digital editions that can be sold or offered as subscriber perks. It preserves valuable content while creating new opportunities for audience engagement and revenue.
The 10 best magazine production services companies
The right production partner can streamline your workflow and elevate the quality of your publication. Here are 13 of the best companies offering services for both print and digital magazines.
1. eMagazines
eMagazines transforms print editions into beautifully reflowed, mobile-optimized digital magazines that readers can enjoy on any device without downloads or passwords. Trusted by top publishers like People and TIME, the platform delivers a seamless, branded experience with integrated audio, analytics, and secure access. Services extend beyond production to include delivery, distribution, and audience growth support.
Top services:
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Mobile-optimized reader
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Turn-key production & fulfillment
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Article audio
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Subscriber back issue archive
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Analytics & reporting
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Apple News+ support
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Subscription order pages
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iOS and Android native apps
2. Walsworth
Walsworth is a full-service commercial printer known for combining craftsmanship, advanced technology, and sustainable practices. They handle every stage of production, from design support to binding and mailing, delivering exceptional results for catalogs, books, and magazines. With a variety of paper, finish, and binding options, Walsworth helps publishers create print products that reflect their brand and engage their audience.
Top services:
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Custom magazine printing
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Sustainable printing processes
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Saddle-stitched and perfect bound formats
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Catalog and book printing
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Mailing and distribution support
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Design and prepress services
3. Blurb
Ideal for indie publishers, Blurb is a print-on-demand and short-run printing service. It’s a great option for small businesses and creatives producing their own magazines, catalogs, and other printed projects. The platform offers intuitive design tools, flexible print options, and global distribution channels, making it easy to create and sell professional-quality publications without large upfront investments or excess inventory.
Top services:
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Print-on-demand magazine printing
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Short-run printing for small batches
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Free BookWright design software
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Adobe InDesign and Lightroom plugins
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Global distribution through Amazon and Ingram
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Custom paper, cover, and size options
4. Flatworld Solutions
Known for its tailored creative services, Flatworld Solutions delivers high-quality magazine design for publishers seeking a polished, professional look. Their team provides everything from cover concepts to strategic page layouts, typography, image editing, and brand-focused design. With a global presence and nearly two decades of experience, they serve clients who want end-to-end creative support backed by efficiency and scalability.
Top services:
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Custom magazine cover design
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Strategic layout design
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Professional typography
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Premium photo editing
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Branding and identity support
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Infographics and illustration design
5. The Magazine Production Company
With expertise spanning design, layout, printing, and digital adaptation, The Magazine Production Company helps publishers bring their vision to life. They work on everything from glossy magazines and annual journals to event programs and marketing materials, offering both creative and technical support. Flexible in approach, they can take on complete production or work as a white-label partner to enhance in-house teams.
Top services:
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Magazine design and layout
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Digital magazine production
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Commercial printing
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Editorial support
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Advertising sales support
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White-label production services
6. Comag Marketing Group
CMG provides end-to-end magazine production and retail support, serving more than 6,000 titles from leading brands. In addition to connecting publishers with cost-effective printing partners, they manage fulfillment, retail distribution, and targeted marketing strategies to maximize sales. Their expertise in supply chain management, retail relationships, and consumer outreach ensures magazines reach the right audiences efficiently and profitably.
Top services:
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Print procurement and production
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Fulfillment and membership services
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Retail distribution management
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Supply chain optimization
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Retail data and sales insights
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Consumer marketing campaigns
7. Magazine Publisher
With more than three decades of experience, Magazine Publisher offers complete start-to-finish services for both new and established titles. Their team handles printing, mailing, distribution, and digital editions, along with providing educational resources for publishers navigating the industry. As both a printer and active publisher, they understand the challenges of production and deliver practical, cost-effective solutions tailored to each client’s needs.
Top services:
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Magazine printing
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Mailing and distribution
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Subscription services
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Magazine design
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Digital issue production
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Publisher resources and guides
8. Mixam
Ideal for independent publishers and small businesses, Mixam offers affordable, high-quality magazine printing with flexible order sizes and a range of customization options. Their platform supports both short-run and bulk printing, allowing creators to choose from various sizes, paper stocks, finishes, and binding styles. With competitive pricing, an easy online ordering process, and attentive customer service, Mixam makes professional printing accessible for all budgets.
Top services:
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Custom magazine printing
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Short-run and bulk printing options
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Multiple binding styles (saddle stitch, perfect bound, spiral, wire-o)
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Wide selection of paper stocks and finishes
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Print-on-demand services
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Online file setup and proofing
9. MagLoft
Designed for print and PDF publishers who want to expand into digital, MagLoft offers a complete publishing platform with tools for PDF-to-HTML conversion, mobile app creation, subscription management, and multi-platform distribution. Its six integrated solutions make it possible to manage every aspect of digital publishing, from content design to audience engagement, without juggling multiple vendors or systems.
Top services:
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FlexPDF PDF-to-HTML conversion
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TypeLoft visual content editor
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AppBuildr mobile app creation
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WebBuildr progressive web app creation
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AutoSocial social media scheduling
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AutoNews Apple News publishing
10. Picante Publications
For more than 20 years, Picante Publications has helped publishers and organizations simplify and elevate the magazine design process. They specialize in creating fully custom layouts that align with a client’s brand while delivering a seamless production experience. From established publishing houses to first-time magazine launches, Picante’s award-winning team blends creativity, precision, and speed to produce publications that connect with readers.
Top services:
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Custom magazine design and layout
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Copyediting services
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Annual report design
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Media kit design
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Catalog design
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Full-service publication production
Frequently asked questions about magazine product services
Get answers to important questions.
Can I outsource both digital and print production to one provider?
While some agencies claim to handle both, digital and print production require very different skill sets, workflows, and technologies. Digital production focuses on mobile optimization, interactivity, and secure online delivery, while print production demands expertise in prepress, color management, paper selection, and binding. For the best results, many publishers work with specialized providers for each format, then coordinate them for brand consistency.
What’s the benefit of mobile-optimized digital magazines?
Mobile-optimized digital magazines reflow content into a single column, making articles easy to read on any device without pinching or zooming. This improves accessibility, keeps readers engaged for longer sessions, and ensures brand elements like fonts, colors, and imagery display consistently. Publishers can also integrate interactive features, track reader behavior, and deliver content instantly through secure, password-free links.
How do I choose the right magazine production service?
Start by identifying your specific needs, such as print design, digital conversion, distribution, or a combination of services. Look for providers with proven experience in your publication’s format and audience segment, and review their portfolio for quality and style alignment. Consider turnaround times, communication style, and pricing transparency, and always check references or client testimonials before committing.
The right production partner can transform your magazine from a great idea into a polished, reader-ready publication that stands out in print or digital form.
And make sure to check out our list of the top magazine distribution services for more resources.
