New York, February 6, 2001 - Total magazine advertising for the month of January closed at $929,572,665, a 5.3% increase over last year, according to Publishers Information Bureau (PIB). Advertising pages for January were 15,176, down 0.8% from last year. January 2001 vs. 2000 Eight of the 13 major advertising categories showed positive dollar growth, most notably in Technology, Automotive, Home Furnishings & Supplies, Apparel & Accessories, and Food & Food Products. Losses were noted for Cigarettes, Tobacco & Accessories; Retail; Toiletries & Cosmetics; Media & Advertising; and Direct Response Companies. "We're looking at a very robust start to the new year, said Ellen Oppenheim, Executive Vice President/Chief Marketing Officer, Magazine Publishers of America. "January magazine advertising revenues were up significantly across eight major categories, despite earlier concerns about softening spending. In particular, we saw tremendous gains in Technology, Automotive, Home Furnishings & Supplies, and Apparel & Accessories." Magazine Publishers of America is the industry association for the consumer magazine business. Established in 1919, the MPA represents more than 240 domestic publishing companies with approximately 1,400 titles, more than 80 international companies and more than 100 associate service providers. Staffed by magazine industry specialists, the MPA is headquartered in New York City, with an office of government affairs based in Washington, D.C.