The memo also outlined that if the deal fails to go ahead, Fairfax will establish a smaller print facility, a move said to be in line with CEO Greg Hywood’s print rationalisation review.

Also in the memo, Paul Peters general manager of Fairfax Printing says a decision will be made by the end of November with one of the two options to be implemented within two years.

Crikey reported Peters is holding talks with the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union as fears of mass redundancies increase. The Chullora site employs 230 permanent full-time staff and 140 casuals.

As well as shared print facilities, the proposed deal between the publishing giants could also mean Fairfax is able to share distribution routes with News.

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