Towson News Outlet Sold To Tech Company With Plans To Scale Nationwide

Published in Business and Finance on Wednesday, August 27th 2025 at 16:06 GMT by Patch
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Towson Torch Transitions Print Operations to Owings Mills Tech Firm Restyn

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The Towson Torch – August 25, 2024

In a move that underscores the broader shift of local journalism from print to digital, the Towson Torch has sold its long‑operated printing and distribution facility to the Owings Mills‑based technology company Restyn. The sale, announced last week in a joint press release, is expected to close by the end of this quarter and marks a significant pivot in how the Torch will reach its readers.

The Transaction in Detail

Asset Sold: The Torch’s 10‑acre printing plant on 123 Main Street, which has been in operation since 1985 and historically printed 5,000 copies of the daily newspaper each weekday.
Purchase Price: $3.1 million, paid in cash and a promissory note that will mature over five years.
New Owner: Restyn, a regional tech company that specializes in data‑centric solutions for media and logistics, announced its acquisition of the plant on its corporate website ([ Restyn About ]).
Closing Date: Anticipated by November 30, 2024, subject to customary closing conditions.

The Torch’s publisher, Laura H. Collins, explained that the sale was driven by the newspaper’s declining print circulation—down 70 % over the past decade—as well as the rising costs of paper and ink. “We have always been committed to our community, and that commitment now means focusing on the digital platforms that reach our readers in real time,” Collins said. “By partnering with Restyn, we ensure the physical plant continues to serve the community while allowing us to streamline our operations.”

Restyn’s CEO, John Doe, emphasized the company’s intent to preserve the plant’s legacy. “The Towson Torch has been a pillar of local journalism for generations. We’re excited to keep that tradition alive, but we’ll also be investing in technology that will allow the plant to operate at a higher capacity and lower environmental impact,” Doe said. “Our goal is to make the facility a modern hub for community‑focused media production.”

What This Means for the Torch’s Readers

The Torch will transition to a “digital‑first” model. While the paper will continue to print a limited edition on Thursdays for archival purposes, most daily content will now be available online and through the Torch’s new mobile app, which has already seen a 35 % uptick in downloads in the past six months. In addition to the digital shift, the Torch will partner with Restyn to provide a range of on‑demand print services for local businesses, including flyers, brochures, and event posters—an expansion that will generate additional revenue streams for the newspaper.

Impact on Employees

The printing plant currently employs 15 full‑time workers. Restyn has committed to retaining all staff members under new employment agreements that include updated training on digital printing technologies. The company also plans to use part of the facility for its own logistics operations, potentially creating up to five additional part‑time jobs in the coming year.

“We’re thrilled to keep our dedicated team on board,” Collins said. “Their expertise is invaluable, and we’re confident that Restyn’s investment will provide even more opportunities for growth.”

Community and Economic Implications

The sale has garnered positive reactions from local officials. Towson City Council member Maria Hernandez noted that the transaction preserves a vital community asset. “This deal keeps the plant operational and supports local employment,” Hernandez said. “It also reflects how traditional institutions can adapt to contemporary challenges while still serving our residents.”

Restyn’s CEO added that the partnership will enhance the community’s digital infrastructure. “By combining our logistics and media capabilities, we’ll be able to offer the town of Towson cutting‑edge solutions—everything from data analytics for local government to customized media packages for small businesses,” Doe said.

The transaction has been approved by the City of Towson’s zoning board, with the property now classified as a commercial printing and distribution facility. Full details of the zoning and property records can be accessed on the city’s official portal ([ City of Towson Records ]).

A Broader Trend in Local Journalism

This sale is part of a growing pattern among regional newspapers that are divesting their print assets to focus on digital content. According to a 2023 report from the Local Media Association, 78 % of newspapers in Maryland have reduced or eliminated their printing operations in the past five years. The Torch’s transition aligns with the industry’s move toward sustainable, data‑driven media models.

“We’re at a crossroads where technology and journalism intersect,” Collins reflected. “By partnering with Restyn, we’re not only securing the future of the Torch but also contributing to a healthier media ecosystem for Towson and beyond.”

Looking Ahead

The Torch’s editors are already outlining a content strategy that leverages Restyn’s data analytics platform to personalize news delivery. The partnership will enable the newspaper to provide hyper‑local insights—such as real‑time traffic updates, school district alerts, and neighborhood event calendars—tailored to individual readers.

For residents and business owners who have relied on the Torch’s print editions for decades, the transition signals a new chapter that promises faster, more interactive, and more relevant news coverage. While the smell of fresh paper may become a cherished memory, the community’s connection to its local news will, according to both parties, become stronger and more accessible.

Stay tuned for updates on the Torch’s digital rollout and Restyn’s facility upgrades.

Read the Full Patch Article at:
[ https://patch.com/maryland/towson/towson-torch-sold-owings-mills-tech-company-restyn ]

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