DPReview, a popular camera reviews website, has been acquired by Gear Patrol, a publisher focused on varied product reviews and buying guides. The acquisition comes after DPReview announced it was being shut down by its former parent company, Amazon, almost three months ago. The price of the acquisition has not been disclosed.
Scott Everett, general manager for DPReview, expressed his excitement about the acquisition and stated that Gear Patrol is a natural home for DPReview’s next phase. He thanked the supporters of DPReview and acknowledged their contributions to the team’s success. Everett emphasized that DPReview will continue to operate as it did before the acquisition and assured that the site features and editorial coverage will remain unaffected. However, he also stated that DPReview will evolve based on customer feedback and the rapidly changing state of the publishing industry.
Eric Yang, CEO and founder of Gear Patrol, recognized DPReview as the internet’s original center of gravity for photography. He expressed honor in receiving the baton from Amazon and pledged to uphold DPReview’s editorial integrity and passionate community.
The acquisition of DPReview by Gear Patrol is seen as a suitable match due to their similarities in publishing gadget reviews and buying guides. Prior to this acquisition, DPReview was acquired by Amazon in 2007. Under Amazon’s ownership, DPReview’s content was often linked to relevant Amazon product listings. The reasons behind Amazon’s interest in a photography review website remain unclear.
Earlier this year, DPReview faced the possibility of shutting down after 25 years of operation as part of Amazon’s cost-cutting measures. However, archiving efforts from users were made to preserve decades’ worth of valuable content from DPReview. Fortunately, the website remained online beyond the initial deadline and has continued to publish reviews and editorial content.
The acquisition by Gear Patrol provides a lifeline for DPReview, securing its future and allowing it to continue providing trusted camera reviews and industry insights to its loyal audience. With Gear Patrol’s expertise and resources, DPReview can tap into new opportunities and further enhance its offerings.
The acquisition also reflects the changing landscape of the publishing industry. As digital platforms continue to dominate, traditional publishers must adapt and find strategic partnerships to ensure their survival. By joining forces with Gear Patrol, DPReview can leverage the audience and reach of its new parent company to expand its influence and remain a leading authority in the photography community.
For DPReview’s dedicated team of core employees across editorial, tech, and business divisions, the acquisition offers stability and the opportunity to continue their important work. Their expertise and commitment to maintaining DPReview’s editorial integrity will be instrumental in shaping the next phase of the website’s story under Gear Patrol’s ownership.
Overall, the acquisition of DPReview by Gear Patrol represents a positive development for the photography industry. It saves a beloved website from closure and ensures that photographers and enthusiasts can continue relying on DPReview for unbiased, in-depth camera reviews and industry news. With this new chapter, DPReview can thrive and evolve while continuing to serve its passionate community.