Guardian News & Media Limited has issued updated terms and conditions for its international print edition subscription service, Guardian Weekly. The revised legal framework, which took effect on 7 February 2024, outlines the rights and responsibilities for subscribers receiving the weekly publication, which is typically issued 51 times a year.
Key Updates to Subscription Rules and Promotions
The 2024 amendments bring several important clarifications for subscribers. The publisher now explicitly states it can introduce and withdraw promotional subscription offers at any time. A significant change notes that gift subscriptions may not be available as part of certain promotional offers. This means purchasers buying a subscription on a special deal may be unable to nominate a different delivery name and address for a gift.
Furthermore, the terms now clearly prohibit subscribers from benefiting from multiple promotional offers simultaneously. For example, a student subscription cannot be combined with any other Guardian Weekly promotional offer. The previous requirement for subscribers on promotional rates to cancel at least two weeks before the offer's expiry to avoid continuation has been removed from the current terms.
Delivery, Payment, and Subscriber Rights
A subscription entitles the holder to one copy per week, delivered worldwide, excluding the final week of the calendar year. While the aim is for Friday delivery, this cannot be guaranteed in every region. For persistent delays or missing issues, subscribers are advised to contact their regional customer service team.
Payment can be made via direct debit (for UK subscribers with a UK bank account) or Visa/Mastercard. The company offers a price guarantee for the first year (51 issues) for those on rolling monthly, quarterly, or annual payments, after which prices may change with 30 days' notice. Subscribers are also permitted subscription "holidays" of up to six weeks per subscription year, with at least two weeks' notice required.
Cancellation Policy and Consumer Protections
Cancellation rights are clearly defined. Subscribers can cancel at any time by post, phone, email, or by using the online model cancellation form. An important update is the new option to cancel via the 'Manage My Account' online portal. Upon cancellation, no further issues are sent, and refunds are issued for any undelivered copies within the current billing period or for advance payments.
The terms reiterate that statutory consumer rights, which cannot be limited by contract, remain in full effect. The publisher's liability is generally capped at the total subscription fees paid for the current period. Customer service contact details are provided for the UK/Europe, Australia/New Zealand, and the USA/Canada.
All Guardian Weekly content remains protected by copyright law, and the terms are governed by the laws of England and Wales. Subscribers will be notified of any future changes to the terms at least 30 days in advance.
