I beg to differ. I have built a sustainable small business using publisher.
After my husband died suddenly leaving me with four small children to support. I purchased all 3 Affinity apps during their sale for less than the price of 1 month of Adobe apps.
I had little skill or experience having been mainly a housewife until this point. After a lot of "blood, sweat and tears" (and lots of cursey words) I learned all I could about the applications. Launched my business, and here I am a few years down the line. A small business owner able to support myself and children.
Probably not a "professional" according to your standards, but certainly a professional to those I have been able to support.
I will forever be grateful to Affinity for their generous affordability, and numerous tutorials available during what was a horrendous time.
And also SERIF during all the hubub and negativity here at the minute, I hope this post will highlight the hope that was brought to one small family.
Wise words my grandfather taught me- "A poor workman will always blame his tools."