This is a crazy idea that could just work. Open your newsagency one evening for a singles speed-type dating event. Get guys browsing their areas of interest or areas they thing reflects who they are and then bring the girls in to check them out. Or vice versa.
In our magazine and card departments we have excellent segmentation of interests to help facilitate such an event. Change the lighting to create a mood and put on some food and drinks.
This could be a unique event that could be loved by the community. It could also get you coverage in the local media.
If I had a newsagency in a country town I’d certainly try this.
Footnote: this idea resulted from something I saw in my newsagency Christmas Eve. A couple in their forties came in holding hands. The lady asked where our surfing magazines were. I took them to the section. She told me that they met surfing twenty years ago and every Christmas since she’s bought him a surfing magazine. I wanted to hug them. What a tradition! It made me think about how people connect around common interests and newsagencies are good retailers for serving those interests.