"What's the Difference Between Food and Fashion? Not Much" Says New Exec at Bon Appetit and Gourmet

Saying "[W]hat’s the difference between food and fashion? Not much." is probably not the best way for Carol Smith to start as vice president and publishing director, overseeing the Bon Appetit and the Gourmet brand, a newly created position at Condé Nast. Smith, you may have heard, was "stolen" or "lured" (pick one) from Hachette Filipacchi Media where she was senior vice president and chief brand officer of Elle Group.

So what's the future of Condé Nast and food then? Senior vice president and publishing director Thomas A. Florio told WWD: "What we’re planning to do in Condé Nast is build a significant food group." Which is interesting! Because that doesn't compute, what with Gourmet being shut down a mere six months ago.

Since Gourmet fans are still bitter, perhaps there's some good news to look forward to? The resurrection of Gourmet, perhaps! That would be nice. WWD continues:

Regarding her plans for Bon Appetit and Gourmet, Smith said she hopes to breathe life back into Gourmet — which was shuttered last October to much outcry — perhaps creating a “custom magazine,” whereby an advertiser such as Kraft or Target would produce a newsstand Gourmet magazine and own every ad. Other ideas include working with retailers on Gourmet-branded items, as well as television projects and events for both titles.

Oh.

· Condé Nast Lures Carol Smith [WWD]
· Condé Nast Stole Elle’s Publisher for Food Titles [The Cut]

[Photo: Media Week]