Fast Company is a business and technology magazine that celebrates innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship. Since its launch in 1995, the magazine has become a go-to resource for business leaders and entrepreneurs looking to stay ahead of the curve. Let's take a look at the story behind the magazine that has redefined the world of business journalism.

The Origins of Fast Company

Fast Company was founded in 1995 by two entrepreneurs, Alan Webber and Bill Taylor. The two men had a vision of creating a magazine that would be different from the traditional business publications of the time. They wanted to create a magazine that celebrated innovation, creativity, and the human side of business.

The magazine's name was inspired by a quote from management consultant Tom Peters, who wrote in his book "The Pursuit of Wow!": "In a world of instant gratification, one of the most important things is fast company."

Fast Company's early years were marked by a commitment to covering the people and companies that were disrupting traditional business models. The magazine featured stories on companies like Amazon and Netscape, which were changing the way business was done.

The Rise of Fast Company

In the late 1990s, Fast Company began to gain a reputation as a must-read publication for business leaders and entrepreneurs. Its focus on innovation and creativity resonated with readers, and the magazine's circulation grew rapidly.

One of the magazine's most famous articles was a 1997 cover story on "The Brand Called You," in which author Tom Peters argued that individuals should think of themselves as brands and market themselves accordingly. The article became a sensation, and it helped to solidify Fast Company's reputation as a magazine that was not afraid to challenge conventional wisdom.

Fast Company continued to thrive in the early 2000s, even as the business world was rocked by the dot-com bust and the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks. The magazine's focus on innovation and creativity helped it to stay relevant in a rapidly changing business landscape.

The Return of Fast Company

In the mid-2000s, Fast Company faced some challenges. The magazine had been sold to new owners, and it struggled to find its footing in a media landscape that was increasingly dominated by digital publications. The magazine's circulation declined, and it was in danger of folding.

In 2008, however, Fast Company was acquired by Mansueto Ventures, a Chicago-based media company. The new owners brought in new leadership and invested in the magazine's digital presence. The magazine's circulation began to climb again, and its focus on innovation and creativity continued to resonate with readers.

Fast Company Today

Today, Fast Company is one of the most respected and influential business publications in the world. The magazine covers a wide range of topics, from technology and innovation to leadership and entrepreneurship. It has won numerous awards for its reporting and design, and its annual list of the world's most innovative companies is eagerly anticipated by business leaders and investors alike.

Fast Company has also expanded beyond its print magazine. The publication now has a strong online presence, with a website that features news, analysis, and original reporting on the latest trends in business and technology. The magazine also hosts a number of events, including the Fast Company Innovation Festival, which brings together business leaders and entrepreneurs from around the world.

In Conclusion

Fast Company has come a long way since its founding in 1995. The magazine has established itself as a leading voice in the world of business journalism, and its focus on innovation and creativity has helped to shape the way we think about business and technology. Fast Company's commitment to covering the human side of business, and to celebrating the people and companies that are changing the world, has made it a beloved publication for entrepreneurs and business leaders around the globe.

Fast Company's success is a testament to the vision of its founders, Alan Webber and Bill Taylor, and to the dedication of the magazine's staff and contributors over the years. By continuing to push the boundaries of what's possible in business journalism, Fast Company has established itself as a true innovator in the media world.

As the business landscape continues to evolve, and as new technologies and industries emerge, it's clear that Fast Company will continue to play an important role in shaping the way we think about innovation and creativity in business. With its commitment to covering the people and ideas that are changing the world, Fast Company is sure to remain a go-to resource for entrepreneurs and business leaders for many years to come.

Hey there! I'm Chuck, the Editor-in-Chief at Local Threads. We’re on a mission to showcase founders of start-ups and help them shine and tell the world about themselves, their products, and their vision in life. We see value in the stories of big brands and their founders as well. Their success can be a source of inspiration for start-ups.