06/06/2025
Missourian Sells To Hoffman Media Group
Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), through Hoffmann Media Group, is pleased to announce its acquisition of Missourian Publishing Co., owner of The Missourian Media Group, a respected, family-owned media organization based in Washington, Mo. This acquisition encompasses The Missourian, Franklin County’s premier newspaper, along with its real estate holdings, printing operations, and digital platform, eMissourian.com.
Founded in 1860 and owned by the Miller family since 1937, The Missourian is published bi-weekly in print and updated daily online, covering Washington, Union, St. Clair, Pacific, and surrounding areas. As Franklin County’s most-read newspaper, it also reaches readers in Marthsaville, Augusta and Hermann. The paper maintains an extensive archive of obituaries dating back to the early 1900s.
“My wife, Jerri, and I take great pride in our Missouri roots and share a deep passion for preserving local journalism,” said David Hoffmann, Chairman of Hoffmann Family of Companies. “This acquisition is a natural fit, and we are honored to uphold the Miller family’s rich legacy as we integrate The Missourian into Hoffmann Media Group.”
“Local news has been the heart and soul of our organization for decades,” said Bill Miller Jr., Publisher. “I am immensely proud of The Missourian’s rich tradition and unwavering commitment to public service, which reflects its deep roots in the communities we serve. Building this brand has been an incredible journey, and I am confident that the Hoffmanns will continue its legacy with the same dedication and integrity.”
“I’m excited to be working with Bill [Miller Jr.] on transitioning the paper to Hoffmann Media Group,” commented Pason Gaddis, CEO of Hoffmann Media Group. “Our goal is to modernize operations through strategic investments in digital assets, including a new app and website, as well as upgrades to the printing facilities. These enhancements will not only grow our digital readership but also expand the commercial printing business in the Midwest, helping to preserve jobs in Washington.”
Gaddis added: “The Hoffmann Family’s investment ensures that the Missourian will continue providing local news to Franklin County for generations to come.”
James L. Miller Sr. arrived at Ellis Island in 1901 at age three. After serving in World War I, he became a reporter for the Kansas City Star and Times, crossing paths with Tom Pendergast and Harry Truman. Seeking independence, Miller purchased a struggling Washington, Missouri newspaper, pioneering offset printing and photoengraving, making The Missourian one of Missouri’s first to adopt these innovations. Both he and his son, William L. Miller Sr., have been inducted into The Missouri Press Association Newspaper Hall of Fame.
Over time, The Missourian grew into an award-winning publication, recognized for excellence in reporting, photography, and digital content. The newspaper has won the prestigious Gold Cup In the Missouri Press Foundation’s Better Newspaper Contest the past four years. In 2021 NNA Better Newspaper Contest, it won 25 awards, its best yet, while eMissourian.com has earned state and national recognition for over a decade. The newspaper is widely recognized as one of the best community newspapers in the country.
Beyond journalism, The Missourian operates a full-service commercial printing company printing over 20 other newspapers and related products, offering corporate newsletters, promotional materials, trade publications, and direct-mail services, making it a regional leader in printing and distribution.
# # #
About Hoffmann Media Group:
Hoffmann Media Group—part of Hoffmann Family of Companies—is a dynamic and innovative media company committed to delivering high-quality journalism and content. With a strong focus on community engagement, the group operates a diverse portfolio of publications and media platforms, connecting audiences through trusted reporting and meaningful storytelling. Hoffmann Media Group publishes variety of publications, including The Napa Valley Register, St. Helena Star, Florida Weekly, Babcock Ranch Telegraph, Ave Maria Sun, Town Chronicle, St. Ignace News, Mackinac Island Town Crier, Florida Health Care News, and iFoundMyDoctor.com. These publications span over 30 markets and focus on delivering high-quality local news and content.
About Hoffmann Family of Companies:
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 120 global brands and employs 16,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Agriculture, Aviation & Transportation, Financial & Professional Services, Hospitality & Entertainment, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing and Real Estate. For more information, visit HFCompanies.com.
For More Information:
Rachel Berkowitz | [email protected]
