CHICAGO — Effective June 1, Nathan Frerichs has acquired majority ownership in American Trade Magazines LLC (ATM) — publishers of American Drycleaner, American Coin-Op and American Laundry News magazines — and become its president/publisher.
Meanwhile, Charles Thompson, who formed ATM in 2011 after purchasing the magazines from Crain Communications, is retiring after 36 years of service to the publishing group.
Formerly ATM’s digital media director, Frerichs has been running the publication websites since 2010 and has also launched multiple new properties. His career includes stints as a reporter/editor, advertising copywriter, photographer, and web designer and developer.
“I’m honored to take the helm of American Trade Magazines at this pivotal moment,” he says. “Charlie is passing me a thriving company with publications boasting over 200 years of collective history — a legacy I’m committed to extending for another two centuries.
“Having spent 25 years in media, including 15 years covering the textile care industry with ATM, I’ve never been more excited about our prospects. Yes, AI is disrupting our industry, but that’s precisely what energizes me. The opportunities ahead are extraordinary, and I am genuinely thrilled about what we can accomplish in these transformative times.”
Thompson joined ATM in 1989 as Midwestern sales manager, rising through the ranks to become publisher in 1998 and eventually buy the magazine group.
“I’m pleased to be putting American Trade Magazines into the hands of Nathan,” says Thompson. “He’ll carry on the traditions of our magazines while leading them into a bigger, brighter digital future at the same time.”
Thompson plans to spend his retirement years traveling with his wife, hunting with his new pup and enjoying his family.
“I truly appreciate everyone — staff, readers and advertisers — who helped make our magazines successful in my 36 years here. There are some great characters in this industry! Plus I’ve made some very good friends along the way.”
Have a question or comment? E-mail our editor Dave Davis at [email protected].