The first of two glossy monthly magazines aimed for markets in the midwest was launched in Ennis last night.
Inside Clare is the first of two publications being produced by Dublin-based New Century Publishing. Inside Limerick is to follow later this summer.
Managing editor Paddy Madden said: "There is an opening for a good local magazine in both Clare and Limerick. We are not setting up in opposition to anyone. Our stories will be softer and there will be a special focus on lifestyle and entertainment."
Mr Madden said the first edition had a print run of 12,000 copies. "We feel that it is very important that we sell quality writing and once you get past the aesthetic values of the magazine, the writing has to stand up. We have top-quality writers in Cormac McConnell, Cathy Mullan and Aodhán Madden."
He added: "What I don't want to happen is that Inside Clare becomes another Hello! magazine because we believe that everyone is a celebrity and has something to say and Inside Clare will give people a podium to express their opinions."
Editor Anthony Galvin said: "The first edition has sold out in a number of outlets and we have a target of a steady circulation of between 7,500 and 8,000."
