Berlin's B.Z. relaunches with AI-driven journalism and a youthful twist
Berlin’s B.Z. newspaper is undergoing a major relaunch as part of its 150th anniversary. The revamped edition will focus on data-driven journalism, investigative reporting, and AI-powered hyperlocal news. Leadership will shift to the Axel Springer Academy of Journalism and Technology in September. The restructuring includes job cuts in the low double digits, with a voluntary severance programme offered to staff. A smaller core team of experienced editors will remain, supported by rotating journalism students from the Academy.
Miriam Krekel, head of the Axel Springer Academy, will take charge of the revamped B.Z. She has worked at Axel Springer since 2002 and previously led Bild’s Berlin-Brandenburg editorial team. Krekel also served as B.Z.’s editor-in-chief from 2017 to 2022.
The changes coincide with two milestones: B.Z.’s 150th anniversary this year and the 40th anniversary of the Axel Springer Academy. The new model aims to blend professional expertise with fresh perspectives from trainee journalists. The relaunch will introduce a more digital-first approach, combining investigative work with AI tools for local coverage. The Academy’s involvement ensures a mix of seasoned editors and emerging talent. The revamped B.Z. is set to debut under this new structure in September.
