Although we have an annual price review, this has not necessarily lead to yearly price increases, and our 2011-2012 prices are maintained at 2009 levels. As a nonprofit organization, we do not answer to shareholders and owners who seek ever-increasing margins, and we will ensure that any future price increases place as little burden as possible on authors.

PLOS reached a truly significant milestone in 2010 when, seven years after entering the publishing business, our annual operating revenues exceeded expenses for the first time without raising journal prices. Although we are delighted that PLOS and others have now shown that Open Access (OA) is a viable and sustainable business model, we have a long way to go before universal access is achieved for all.

For further information about our general progress, please read our annual Progress Updates.