Fairfax will merge printing with News Ltd or build smaller Sydney plant

Last week, news website Crikey published a memo from Paul Peters, general manager of Fairfax Printers' Chullora plant, saying the media giant is looking at either a joint printing venture with News Ltd or establishing a smaller Fairfax-owned site.

According to the memo sent to all Fairfax staff on 30 August: "It is anticipated that a decision will be made within three months and that either option will be implemented within two years."

Fairfax confirmed to ProPrint that the details of the memo were accurate, though declined to comment further.

The company is now undertaking meetings with union representatives and staff over the future of the Chullora workforce, which comprises 230 full-time workers and 140 casuals.

The group is looking at rationalising printing and distribution to improve operating performance, said Peters, reiterating comments by chief executive Greg Hywood in Fairfax's full-year results published last week.

Fairfax Media reported a $650.8m impairment charge in its 2010/11 results, pushing it to a $400.9m post-tax loss.

Fairfax and News Ltd have not made any secrets of the fact they were discussing the potential to consolidate newspaper printing, though had previously said talks were "very preliminary".

Read ProPrint's profile on the Chullora plant here.

Comment below to have your say on this story.

If you have a news story or tip-off, get in touch at editorial@sprinter.com.au.  

Sign up to the Sprinter newsletter

Leave a comment:

Your email address will not be published. All fields are required

Advertisement

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Join our mailing list to receive the latest news and updates from our team.
Advertisement