• by Erik Sass  @eriksass1, September 7, 2012

One of the nation’s biggest newspapers is getting a comprehensive makeover, as USA Today prepares to relaunch its print edition, Web site and mobile apps, according to the Politico blog. The new look will be unveiled on Sept. 14, coinciding with the newspaper’s 30th anniversary.
 
The changes include a revamped version of the USA Today logo, which will appear on the print newspaper, as well as digital platforms, and greater emphasis on photography and images for the Web site.
 
In the most recent report from the Audit Bureau of Circulations, covering the six-month period ending March 2012, USA Today had a total print and digital circulation of 1,817,446; that compared to a total average circulation of 1,829,099 in the same period last year.

(It should be noted that the ABC discourages direct comparisons, since figures from previous years may not include digital editions). Looking further back, the 2011-2012 figures are down about 17% from a total print circulation of 2,199,052 in March 2005.  
 
Also this week, USA Today publisher Gannett Co. announced it has acquired Mobestream, which operates Key Ring, a mobile rewards program that will allow Gannett to help local merchants strengthen relationships with consumers through a variety of loyalty programs.

Among other features, consumers who download the Key Ring app can store loyalty cards on their devices (eliminating the need to carry the physical cards everywhere), download coupons, and participate in special promotions via mobile.