The Spokesman-Review eliminates credit card processing fees through strategic partnership

This partnership represents exactly the kind of innovative thinking required to modernize the financial infrastructure of local media. By eliminating recurring credit card fees, we are strengthening our financial position while continuing to invest in journalism, digital growth and audience engagement.”

Aaron Kotarek, general manager and chief operating officer of The Spokesman-Review

The Spokesman-Review has announced a transformative financial initiative that has successfully eliminated credit card processing fees across its operations through an innovative partnership with AMR - A Marketing Resource and Priority Payments. This forward-thinking solution has delivered significant recurring savings while enhancing payment flexibility for customers and advertisers.

Facing rising operational costs and the increasing burden of credit card transaction fees, The Spokesman-Review sought a sustainable, long-term solution that would both protect margins and maintain a seamless customer experience. Through collaboration with A Marketing Resource and Priority Payments, the organization implemented a compliant, transparent payment processing model that shifts the economics of card acceptance without disrupting user behavior.

“This partnership represents exactly the kind of innovative thinking required to modernize the financial infrastructure of local media,” said Aaron Kotarek, general manager and chief operating officer of The Spokesman-Review. “By eliminating recurring credit card fees, we are strengthening our financial position while continuing to invest in journalism, digital growth and audience engagement.”

The new system enables The Spokesman-Review to:

• Eliminate ongoing credit card processing expenses, resulting in meaningful annual cost savings
• Preserve cash flow and reinvest capital into newsroom operations and digital initiatives
• Maintain a frictionless payment experience for subscribers, advertisers and business partners
• Ensure full compliance with payment card industry brand rules and regulatory guidelines

A Marketing Resource played a key role in structuring and implementing the program with flawless execution, while Priority Payments provided the payment technology and infrastructure necessary to support the transition at scale.

Joe Cooper

“This is a powerful example of how businesses can rethink traditional cost structures,” said Joe Cooper, president of A Marketing Resource's Cash Discount Program. “We’re proud to partner with The Spokesman-Review to deliver a solution that improves profitability without compromising customer experience.”

The initiative aligns with The Spokesman-Review’s broader strategy to modernize operations, improve efficiency and identify new pathways to sustainable revenue(s) in a rapidly evolving media landscape.  As the organization continues to invest in digital transformation and audience-first products, this partnership underscores its commitment to disciplined financial management and long-term viability.

About The Spokesman-Review:

The Spokesman-Review is the largest news and information provider in the Inland Northwest. The publishing company traces its origin to the founding of the Spokane Falls Review in 1883. In 1893, The Review merged with its rival, The Spokesman, under the leadership of Publisher William H. Cowles.  The Spokesman-Review is still owned and operated by the Cowles family, whose members continue to reside in Spokane and are actively involved in civic betterment efforts in addition to other Cowles Company enterprises. Today, publisher William Stacey Cowles represents the fourth generation of his family to oversee the publishing company.

For media inquiries, contact:
Aaron J. Kotarek
General Manager & Chief Operating Officer
aaronk@spokesman.com – (509) 459-5011