SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549


FORM 10-Q


|X| QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended SeptemberMarch 28, 20032004

OR

|_| TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934


Commission file number 1-6961

GANNETT CO., INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)
   
Delaware
(State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization of Registrant)
 16-0442930
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
   
7950 Jones Branch Drive, McLean, Virginia
(Address of principal executive offices)
 22107-0910
(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (703) 854-6000.


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports) and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes |X| No |_|

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes |X| No |_|

The total number of shares of the registrant’s Common Stock, $1.00 par value, outstanding as of October 30, 2003,April 27, 2004, was 271,062,311.272,491,823.

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PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Items 1 and 2. Financial Statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF OPERATIONS

Operating Summary

     Earnings per diluted share, on a generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) basis, were $1.03$1.00 for the thirdfirst quarter of 20032004 versus $0.99 per share93 cents for the same period last year. For the first ninethree months of 2003, earnings per diluted share were $3.15 versus $3.02 for the same interval in 2002.

     Net2004, net income rose 5%10% to $279.0$274.4 million for the quarter and 5% to $853.2 million for the year-to-date. Operatingoperating income increased 3%8% to $462.5 million for the quarter and 3% to $1.4$445.8 million. Operating revenues were $1.73 billion for the year-to-date.

     Operating revenues were $1.6 billion for the thirdfirst quarter, a 4%an 11% increase over the same period last year. For the first nine months, operating revenue increased by $192.8 million or 4% to $4.9 billion.

Newspaper Results

     Reported newspaper publishing revenues increased $73.3advanced $166.2 million or 5%12% for the third quarterfirst three months of 2003 as compared to the third quarter of 2002 and rose $212.1 million or 5% for the year-to-date. Newspaper operating revenues are derived principally from2004 reflecting higher advertising, and circulation sales, which accounted for 73% and 21%, respectively, of total newspaper revenues for the third quarter of 2003 and for the year-to-date period. Ad revenues also include those derived from advertising placed with newspaper Internet sites. Other newspaper publishing revenues are mainly from commercial printing and other revenues. The increases reflect the impact of recently acquired businesses, and also include earnings fromrevenue improvement at most of the company’s 50% owned joint operating agenciesnewspaper properties and a higher foreign exchange rate for UK operations.

     Recent acquisitions affecting comparisons include NurseWeek, acquired in Detroit and Tucson. The tables below present these components of reported revenues for the third quarter and first nine months ofFebruary 2004, Clipper Magazine (“Clipper”), acquired on October 31, 2003, and 2002.

Newspaper operating revenues, in thousands of dollars

             
Third Quarter 2003 2002 % Change
  
 
 
Newspaper advertising $1,067,039  $1,006,923   6 
Newspaper circulation  300,277   292,659   3 
Commercial printing and other  91,665   86,058   7 
   
   
   
 
Total $1,458,981  $1,385,640   5 
   
   
   
 
             
Year-to-date 2003 2002 % Change
  
 
 
Newspaper advertising $3,188,467  $3,022,664   5 
Newspaper circulation  905,888   885,911   2 
Commercial printing and other  271,251   244,928   11 
   
   
   
 
Total $4,365,606  $4,153,503   5 
   
   
   
 

     The table below presents the components of reported newspaper advertising revenues for the third quarter and the first nine months of 2003 and 2002.

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Advertising revenues, in thousands of dollars

             
Third Quarter 2003 2002 % Change
  
 
 
Local $427,406  $415,443   3 
National  165,822   151,132   10 
Classified  473,811   440,348   8 
   
   
   
 
Total ad revenue $1,067,039  $1,006,923   6 
   
   
   
 
             
Year-to-date 2003 2002 % Change
  
 
 
Local $1,305,092  $1,253,885   4 
National  512,018   484,072   6 
Classified  1,371,357   1,284,707   7 
   
   
   
 
Total ad revenue $3,188,467  $3,022,664   5 
   
   
   
 

     Newspaper advertising revenues improved by $60.1 million or 6% for the quarter and $165.8 million or 5% for the year-to-date, reflecting gains in all categories of advertising, the acquisition of the publishing businesses of Scottish Media Group plc (“Newsquest Scotland”SMG”), purchased in April 2003, and the establishment of the Texas-New Mexico Newspapers Partnership (“Texas-New Mexico”) in March 2003. Circulation

     Newspaper operating revenues rose $7.6 million or 3%are derived principally from advertising and circulation sales, which accounted for 74% and 20%, respectively, of total newspaper revenues for the first quarter 2004. Ad revenues also include amounts derived from advertising placed with online operations associated with the company’s newspapers. Other publishing revenues are mainly from commercial printing businesses, earnings from the company’s 50% owned joint operating agencies in Detroit and $20.0 million or 2%Tucson and earnings from its 19.49% equity interest in the California Newspapers Partnership. The table below presents these components of reported revenues for the year-to-date. Otherfirst quarter of 2004 and 2003.

Newspaper operating revenues, in thousands of dollars

             
First Quarter 2004  2003  % Change 
             
Newspaper advertising $1,156,011  $1,006,047   15 
Newspaper circulation  312,389   302,431   3 
Commercial printing and other  91,826   85,591   7 
          
Total $1,560,226  $1,394,069   12 
          

     The table below presents the components of reported newspaper advertising revenues increased $5.6 million or 7% and $26.3 million or 11% for the year-to-date, primarily becausefirst quarter of higher commercial printing volume. A higher foreign exchange rate for British Sterling2004 and 2003. Certain online advertising revenues in 2003 have been reclassified to conform with the 2004 presentation. The reclassification had no effect on total advertising revenues.

Advertising revenues, in thousands of dollars

             
First Quarter 2004  2003  % Change 
             
Local $477,190  $419,542   14 
National  184,348   162,648   13 
Classified  494,473   423,857   17 
          
Total ad revenue $1,156,011  $1,006,047   15 
          

     The company’s growth over the years has been partly through the acquisition of new businesses. To facilitate an analysis of operating results, certain information discussed below is on a pro forma basis, which means that results are presented as if all properties owned at the end of the first quarter of 2004 were owned throughout the periods covered by the discussion. The company consistently uses, for Newsquest operations also favorably impacted revenueindividual businesses and for aggregated business data, pro forma reporting of operating results in its internal financial reports, because it enhances measurement of

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performance by permitting comparisons forwith prior period historical data. Likewise, the quartercompany uses this same pro forma data in its external reporting of key financial results and year-to-date.benchmarks.

     In the tables that follow, newspaper advertising linage and related revenues are presented on a pro forma basis. Pro forma basis means that these resultsAdvertising revenues for Newsquest, NurseWeek and Clipper are presented as if all properties owned at the end of the third quarter of 2003 were owned throughout the periods presented. For Newsquest, advertising revenue is reflected in the amounts below, however, advertising linage and preprint distribution statistics for these businesses are not included.

Advertising revenues, in thousands of dollars (pro forma)

             
Third Quarter 2003 2002 % Change
  
 
 
Local $427,406  $423,157   1 
National  165,822   154,257   7 
Classified  473,811   455,612   4 
   
   
   
 
Total ad revenue $1,067,039  $1,033,026   3 
   
   
   
 
             
First Quarter 2004  2003  % Change 
             
             
Local $478,968  $451,877   6 
National  184,223   166,744   10 
Classified  494,716   439,357   13 
          
Total ad revenue $1,157,907  $1,057,978   9 
          

Advertising linage, in thousands of inches, and preprint distribution, in millions (pro forma)

             
Third Quarter 2003 2002 % Change
  
 
 
Local  8,910   9,123   (2)
National  943   879   7 
Classified  15,198   14,714   3 
   
   
   
 
Total Run-of-Press linage  25,051   24,716   1 
   
   
   
 
Preprint distribution  2,579   2,418   7 
   
   
   
 

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Advertising revenues, in thousands of dollars (pro forma)

             
Year-to-date 2003 2002 % Change
  
 
 
Local $1,311,655  $1,276,325   3 
National  515,239   494,035   4 
Classified  1,386,400   1,328,271   4 
   
   
   
 
Total ad revenue $3,213,294  $3,098,631   4 
   
   
   
 

Advertising linage, in thousands of inches, and preprint distribution, in millions (pro forma)

             
Year-to-date 2003 2002 % Change
  
 
 
Local  27,211   27,711   (2)
National  2,948   2,733   8 
Classified  44,154   42,704   3 
   
   
   
 
Total Run-of-Press linage  74,313   73,148   2 
   
   
   
 
Preprint distribution  7,952   7,259   10 
   
   
   
 
             
First Quarter 2004  2003  % Change 
             
Local  8,665   8,652   0 
National  1,048   928   13 
Classified  14,196   13,632   4 
          
Total Run-of-Press linage  23,909   23,212   3 
          
Preprint distribution  2,642   2,568   3 
          

     The table below reconciles advertising revenues on a pro forma basis to advertising revenues on a GAAP basis.

Advertising revenues, in thousands of dollars

             
Third Quarter 2003 2002 % Change
  
 
 
Pro forma ad revenues $1,067,039  $1,033,026   3 
Add: Effect of dispositions          
Less: Effect of acquisitions     (26,103)    
   
   
   
 
As reported ad revenues $1,067,039  $1,006,923   6 
   
   
   
 
             
Year-to-date 2003 2002 % Change
  
 
 
Pro forma ad revenues $3,213,294  $3,098,631   4 
Add: Effect of dispositions      1,295     
Less: Effect of acquisitions  (24,827)  (77,262)    
   
   
   
 
As reported ad revenues $3,188,467  $3,022,664   5 
   
   
   
 
             
First Quarter 2004  2003 
 
Pro forma ad revenues $1,157,907  $1,057,978     
Add: Effect of dispositions  1,122   2,314     
Less: Effect of acquisitions  (3,018)  (54,245)    
          
As reported ad revenues $1,156,011  $1,006,047     
           

     For the third quarterfirst three months of 2003,2004, reported and pro forma local advertising revenues rose 3%14% and 1%6%, respectively, with pro forma linage down 2%. Foreven with last year. In the year-to-date, reportedU.S., local ad revenue increased in all principal newspaper products including the daily and pro forma local advertising revenues increased 4%non-daily newspapers, preprints, and 3%, respectively, with pro forma linage 2% below last year.online operations. Local ad revenues benefitedincreased in the furniture, entertainment, financial and telecommunications categories however, ad revenues in the department stores and consumer electronics categories declined from continued growthlast year. The performance of the company’s small and medium-sized advertisers in preprint ad demand and revenues from non-daily publications.its domestic newspapers outpaced the revenue performance of its largest advertisers.

     Reported and pro forma national advertising revenues roseadvanced 13% and 10% and 7%, respectively for the thirdfirst quarter on a 7%13% pro forma volume increase. Year-to-date, reported and pro forma national advertising revenues gained 6% and 4%, respectively, with pro forma linage up 8%, reflecting improvement at certain of the company’s domestic local newspapers and USA TODAY. At USA TODAY, advertising revenues increased 5%10% for the quarter and March was particularly strong with ad revenue growth of 25%. Solid increases in the third quarter reflecting strong gains from automotive, travel, telecommunications, retail, entertainment and pharmaceutical related advertising, whichtelecom segments more than offset weaknessdeclines in the automotive and technology and financial advertising categories. For the year-to-date, USA TODAY advertising revenues increased 2% primarily due to strong gains in automotive, entertainment and pharmaceutical related advertising.

     Reported and pro forma classified ad revenues increased 8%gained 17% and 4%13%, respectively with pro forma linage up 3%, for the third quarter. For the year-to-date, reported and pro forma4% with improvement in all classified ad revenues were up 7% and 4%,

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respectively on a 3% gain in pro forma linage. Pro forma classified adcategories. Classified revenue gainsimprovements were driven by strength in the employment, automotive, and real estate categories, which rose 2% and 10%, respectively, in the third quarter and 4% and 11%, respectively, for the year-to-date.categories. Employment ad revenues continued to be adversely impacted by the weak U.S. labor market and, on a pro forma basis, declined 5% for the quarter and 4% for the year-to-date. In September, employment ad revenues decreased 1% as compared to September of 2002. The 1% decline in employment ad revenues in September reflects the best result in employment ad revenues, as compared to the prior year, sinceadvanced 17% over the first quarter of 2003. Overall, on a reportedReal estate ad revenues and pro forma basis, the company’s classified results from Newsquest were stronger than its domestic results.automotive ad revenues increased 11% and 6%, respectively. Online revenue growth was very strong.

     Circulation revenues, as reported, rose 3% for the thirdfirst quarter, and 2% for the year-to-date, primarily as a result of the Newsquest Scotland and Texas-New Mexico transactions. Circulation revenues on awhile pro forma basis were flat for the quarter and for the year-to-date.circulation revenues increased almost 1%. Pro forma net paid daily circulation for the company’s newspapers, excluding USA TODAY, declined 3% for the third quarter and

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2% for the year-to-date. The 3% decline in net paid circulation for the third quarter reflects, in part, the absence of special sections and editions run in 2002 relating to the first anniversary of September 11, 2001.quarter. Sunday net paid circulation declined 1%was also down 2% from the comparable quarter ofsame period last year and for the year-to-date.year. USA TODAY reported an average daily paid circulation of 2,243,1442,277,785 in the ABC Publisher’s Statement for the 26 weeks ended SeptemberMarch 28, 2003,2004, a 1% increase over the comparable period a year ago.earlier.

     The table below reconciles circulation revenues on a pro forma basis to circulation revenues on a GAAP basis.

Circulation revenues, in thousandsFor the first three months of dollars

             
Third Quarter 2003 2002 % Change
  
 
 
Pro forma circulation revenues $300,277  $301,235   (0)
Add: Effect of dispositions          
Less: Effect of acquisitions     (8,576)    
   
   
   
 
As reported circulation revenues $300,277  $292,659   3 
   
   
   
 
             
Year-to-date 2003 2002 % Change
  
 
 
Pro forma circulation revenues $914,190  $910,396   0 
Add: Effect of dispositions      423     
Less: Effect of acquisitions  (8,302)  (24,908)    
   
   
   
 
As reported circulation revenues $905,888  $885,911   2 
   
   
   
 

     Reported2004, reported newspaper operating expenses rose $52.3$136.4 million or 5%13% reflecting the impact of recent acquisitions, increased newsprint expenses, higher insurance and medical costs, and a higher foreign exchange rate for Newsquest operations. Expenses associated with non-daily products increased as a result of the quarter and $150.0 million or 5% for the first nine months,overall growth in these products. Depreciation expense also increased primarily as a result of the Newsquest Scotlandrecent acquisitions and Texas-New Mexico transactions, increased commercial printing volume, higher newsprint expense and substantially higher insurance, pension and other employee benefit costs. Benefit cost increases for the third quarter and year-to-date periods were tempered by modifications to certain retiree and employee benefit programs. Thea higher foreign exchange rate in 2003 for Newsquest operations also adversely impacts expense comparisons.UK operations. Newsprint expense for the third quarter and first nine months increased 12% and 7%, respectively,rose 13% reflecting higher year-over-yearan 11% increase in prices and increaseda 2% increase in consumption. The increase in newsprint consumption due primarily towas driven by the aforementioned transactionsSMG and increased commercial printing activity. On a pro forma basis, newsprint expense for the quarter increased 9% reflecting higher prices year-over-year. Consumption on a pro forma basis was flat for the quarter.Texas-New Mexico transactions.

     Newspaper operatingOperating income for the quarter rose $21.0$29.8 million or 5% and $62.1 million or 5% year-to-date. The year-over-year gains in advertising revenues, the positive impact of earnings from the Newsquest Scotland and Texas-New Mexico transactions and favorable foreign exchange rates were tempered by increased employee benefit costs and newsprint expense.

Television Results

     Television revenues decreased $11.7 million or 6% for the quarter, and were down $19.3 million or 4% for the year-to-date,8% reflecting significantly diminished political advertising spending. The decrease in revenues for the first nine months of 2003 also reflects softness in advertising demand due to the war in Iraq and the absence of Olympics related advertising, which benefited 2002. National revenues declined 19% and 10% for the quarter and year-to-date, respectively. Local revenues rose 3% and 1% compared to the third quarter and year-to-date of 2002,

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respectively. Operating expenses declined 3% and 1% for the third quarter and year-to-date, respectively as lower programming and sales costs werestrong revenue growth partially offset by increased news,newsprint, insurance and employee benefitmedical costs. Most of the company’s newspaper properties reported higher operating income for the quarter.

Broadcasting Results

     In the first quarter, broadcasting revenues advanced $11.3 million or 7% benefiting from the Super Bowl carried by the company’s six CBS stations, political spending and strength in the national advertising automotive, telecommunications and financial categories. For the first quarter of 2004, national revenues gained 6% and local revenues rose 9%. Broadcasting operating expenses increased 5% due to higher advertising sales costs and higher insurance and medical costs. Operating income decreased $8.9was up $6.2 million or 11% for10% in the quarterfirst quarter. For the remainder of 2004, broadcasting revenues and $16.6 million or 7% forearnings are expected to continue to improve over 2003 results primarily because of higher ad spending from political campaigns, the year-to-date.“Friends” finale in May on the company’s thirteen NBC stations and the Summer Olympics also on NBC.

Operating Cash Flow

     The company’s consolidated operating cash flow, defined as operating income plus depreciation and amortization of intangible assets, increased $16.0$40.2 million or 3%9% to $523.0$507.2 million for the thirdfirst quarter of 2004, reflecting improved newspaper and increased $51.3 million or 3% to $1.58 billion for the year-to-date.broadcasting segment results. All references to “operating cash flow” are to a non-GAAP financial measure. Management believes that use of this measure allows investors and management to measure, analyze and compare the cash resources generated from its business segmentssegment operations in a meaningful and consistent manner. The focus on operating cash flow is appropriate given the consistent and generally predictable strength of cash flow generation by newspaper and televisionbroadcasting operations, and the short period of time it takes to convert new orders to cash. A reconciliation of these non-GAAP amounts to the company’s operating income, which the company believes is the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP inon the company’s consolidated statements of income, is presented in Note 810 “Business Segment Information” of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Non-Operating Income and Expense / Provision for Income Taxes

     The company’s interest expense declined $5.9$4.3 million or 15% for the quarter, primarily due to12%, reflecting lower average commercial paper balances outstandingdebt levels and lower short-term interest rates on commercial paper debt. For the year-to-date, interest expense was down $3.3 million or 3%, as lower interest expense from commercial paper debt was partially offset by added interest expense from the fixed rate notes issued in March 2002. In March 2002, the company refinanced $1.8 billion in commercial paper obligations with the issuance of fixed rate unsecured notes. The daily average commercial paper balance outstanding was $2.4 billion and $2.5 billion during the third quarters of 2003 and 2002, respectively.rates. The daily average outstanding balance of commercial paper was $2.5$1.87 billion during the first nine monthsquarter of 20032004 and $3.3$2.54 billion forduring the comparable periodfirst quarter of 2002.2003. The weighted average interest rate on commercial paper was 1.06%1.04% and 1.79%1.29% for the third quartersfirst quarter of 20032004 and 2002, respectively. For the first nine months of 2003, and 2002, the weighted average interest rate was 1.21% and 1.81%, respectively.

     Because the company has $2.3$1.82 billion in commercial paper obligations at SeptemberMarch 28, 20032004 that have relatively short-term maturity dates, the company is subject to significant changes in the amount of interest expense it might incur. Assuming the current level of commercial paper borrowings, a 1/2% increase or decrease in the average interest rate for commercial paper would result in an increase or decrease in annual interest expense of $11.5 million.$9.1 million, respectively.

     OtherIn both periods presented, non-operating income and expense for the quarter reflects minority interest expense, primarily from the Texas-New Mexico partnership and losses frominclude charges associated with certain minority interest investments in Internet businesses partially offset by investment income and currency gains. For the year-to-date, other non-operating income primarily consists of the non-monetary gain from the Texas-New Mexico partnership transaction discussed below, investment income and currency gains. This was partially offset by other non-operating charges, including losses from minority interest investments in Internetonline/new technology businesses and minority interest expense fromrelated to the Texas-New Mexico partnership.

     DuringNewspapers Partnership. Non-operating income in the first quarter of 2003, the company completed2004 also includes a non-monetary transaction under which it contributed itsgain from the exchange of the company’s daily newspaper in El Paso toGainesville, Ga. In 2003, non-operating income also includes a newly formed partnership, Texas-New Mexico Newspapers Partnership. The partnership includesnon-monetary gain on the El Paso newspaper and five other daily newspapers in nearby New Mexico that were contributed by Media News Group. In exchange for its contribution, the company received a 66% interest in the partnership.

     In accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, the company recorded this non-monetary transaction as two simultaneous but separate events in the first quarter; that is, acompany’s sale of 34%33.8% of its interest in the El Paso newspaper for which a non-operating gain was recognized, and the acquisition of a 66% interest in the New Mexico newspapers through its investment in the partnership. The non-monetary gain from the partnership transaction is reflected in non-operating income.Times.

     The company’s effective income tax rate was 34.2% for the third quarterfirst quarters of 2004 and first nine months of 2003, compared to 34.4% for the same periods last year.respectively.

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Net Income

     Net income for the thirdfirst quarter rose $13.4advanced $24.6 million or 5%10% and earnings per diluted share increased to $1.03$1.00 from $0.99,93 cents, a 4% increase. For the first nine months, net income was up $40.1 million or 5% and earnings per diluted share increased to $3.15 from $3.02, a 4%7.5% increase. The weighted average number of diluted shares outstanding for the thirdfirst quarter of 20032004 totaled 272,174,000275,507,000, compared to 269,306,000270,059,000 for the thirdfirst quarter of 2002. For the first nine months of 2003 and 2002, the weighted average number of2003. The increase in diluted shares outstanding totaled 271,114,000is due in part to the overall increase in the market price of the company’s stock and 269,105,000, respectively.stock options exercised. Exhibit 11 of this Form 10-Q presents the weighted average number of basic and diluted shares outstanding and the earnings per share for each quarterperiod.

Liquidity, Capital Resources, and year-to-date.

Liquidity and Capital ResourcesStatements of Cash Flows

     The company’s cash flow from operating activities was $1.09 billion$392.1 million for the first ninethree months of 2003,2004, reflecting solid newspaper and television results.broadcasting results partially offset by a $50 million contribution to the Gannett Retirement Plan. Cash flow from operating activities was $985.4$402.1 million for the first nine monthsquarter of 2002.2003.

     Cash used by the company for investing activities totaled $539.5$164.2 million for the ninethree months ended SeptemberMarch 28, 2003. Capital expenditures totaled $171.22004 primarily reflecting capital spending of $58.7 million, in the first nine months of 2003, compared to $175.7 million in the first nine months of last year. In the first nine months of 2003, the company paid $364.3and $109.4 million for the acquisitionacquisitions of Newsquest Scotland and several smaller businesses.

     Cash used by the company for financing activities totaled $481.8$220.1 million, forreflecting the first nine monthspay down of 2003. Payments to reducelong term debt of $115.5 million, the payment of the fourth quarter 2003 dividend of $68.0 million, the repurchase of 1.0 million shares of the company’s debt totaled $395.2stock for $86.5 million (see further discussion below) partially offset by proceeds from the exercise of stock options totaling $49.9 million. The company’s regular quarterly dividend of $0.25 per share, which was declared in the thirdfirst quarter of 2003,2004, totaled $67.5$68.4 million and was paid on OctoberApril 1, 2003. Dividends paid for2004.

     In February 2004, the company announced the reactivation of its existing share repurchase program that was last utilized in February 2000. Under the program, the company has authority to repurchase up to $291 million of the company’s common stock. The shares will be repurchased at management’s discretion, either in the open market or in privately negotiated block transactions. The decision to buy back will depend on price, availability and other corporate developments. Purchases will occur from time to time and no maximum purchase price has been set. During the first nine monthsquarter of 2004, the company purchased approximately 1 million shares of its common stock for $86.5 million. For more information on the share repurchase program, refer to Item 2 of Part II of this Form 10-Q.

     Working capital declined $89.6 million from the end of 2003 reflecting lower receivables due to seasonal trends in revenues and 2002 totaled $193.3 millionhigher taxes payable primarily due to the timing of estimated U.S. Federal and $183.6 million,State tax payments.

     The company’s operations have historically generated strong positive cash flow, which, along with the company’s program of issuing commercial paper and maintaining bank revolving credit agreements, has provided adequate liquidity to meet the company’s requirements, including those for acquisitions.

     The company regularly issues commercial paper for cash requirements and maintains revolving credit agreements equal to or in excess of any commercial paper outstanding. The company’s commercial paper has been rated A-1 and P-1 by Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s Investors Service, respectively. Proceeds received fromThe company’s senior unsecured long-term debt is rated A by Standard & Poor’s and A2 by Moody’s Investors Service. The company has a shelf registration statement with the exerciseSecurities and Exchange Commission under which up to $2.5 billion of stock options totaled $106.6 million and $61.7 million duringadditional debt securities may be issued. The company’s Board of Directors has established a maximum aggregate level of $7 billion for amounts that may be raised through borrowings or the first nine monthsissuance of 2003 and 2002, respectively.equity securities.

     The company’s foreign currency translation adjustment, included in accumulated other comprehensive income and reported as part of shareholders’ equity, totaled $151.5$424.9 million at the end of the thirdfirst quarter versus $56.0$352.3 million at the end of 2002, reflecting2003. The increase reflects a strengthening of British Sterling against the U.S. dollar. Newsquest’s assets and liabilities at SeptemberMarch 28, 20032004 were translated from Sterling to U.S. dollars at an exchange rate of $1.66$1.82 versus $1.60$1.78 at the end of 2002.2003. Newsquest’s financial results were translated at an average rate of $1.61 for the third quarter of 2003 versus $1.55 for the third quarter of 2002, and at an average rate of $1.61$1.84 for the first nine monthsquarter of 2003 compared to $1.482004 versus $1.60 for the first nine monthsquarter of 2002.2003.

     The company is exposed to foreign exchange rate risk primarily due to its operations in the United Kingdom, for which Sterling is the functional currency, which is then translated into U.S. dollars. Translation gains or losses affecting the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income have not been significant in the past. If the price of Sterling against the U.S. dollar had been 10% more or less than the actual price, reported net income for the first three months of 2004 would have increased or decreased less than 1% for the third quarter and for the year-to-date.approximately 2%, respectively.

     The company has a 13.5% general partnership interest in Ponderay Newsprint Company. The company, on a several basis, is a guarantor of 13.5% of the principal and interest on a term loan held by Ponderay that totals $106$93 million at SeptemberMarch 28, 2003.2004.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements5

     Refer to Note 9 of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of new accounting standards and their impact on earnings beginning in 2003.

Other Matters

     In early April 2003, the company completed its acquisition of the publishing business of SMG plc (“Newsquest Scotland”) for approximately £216 million (U.S. $340 million). Newsquest Scotland consists of three Scottish newspapers, eleven specialty consumer and business-to-business magazine titles, and an online advertising and content business.

     In late March 2003, the company entered into an agreement with Independent News and Media Limited for the acquisition of its Greater London regional publishing business for £60 million (approximately U.S. $97 million). This regional publishing business consists of 45 Greater London regional newspapers, including the Post Newspaper Series and the Kentish Times Newspaper Series. On October 21, 2003, the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry in the UK approved the purchase by the company of the bulk of the titles owned by Independent News and Media Limited but did not approve the purchase of certain other titles. The company will review the

7


 

details of the Competition Commission’s report and will discuss the report with the Department of Trade and Industry and Independent News and Media Limited.Other Matters

     On October 31, 2003,April 2, 2004, the company acquired Clipper Magazine,the assets of Captivate Network, Inc., onea national news and entertainment network that delivers quality programming and full motion video advertising to more than 1.4 million consumers and business professionals each day. Captivate is seen in a distraction-free viewing environment, on wireless digital video screens in the elevators of the nation's largest direct-mail advertising magazine companies. The acquisition also includes several affiliated operations including a full service advertising agency, an e-mail customer retention service, a direct mail service to new movers and MyClipper.com, a companion web site for the core direct mail advertising offerings. The company does not expect this acquisition to materially affect the company's financial position or results of operations.premier office towers across North America.

     On October 21, 2003, the company’s board of directors declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.25 per share. The quarterly dividend is payable on January 2, 2004 to shareholders of record on December 13, 2003.

Certain Factors Affecting Forward-Looking Statements

     Certain statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contain forward-looking information. The words “expect”, “intend”, “believe”, “anticipate”, “likely”, “will” and similar expressions generally identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements.

     Potential risks and uncertainties which could adversely affect the company’s ability to obtain these results include, without limitation, the following factors: (a) increased consolidation among major retailers or other events which may adversely affect business operations of major customers and depress the level of local and national advertising; (b) a continuedan economic downturn in some or all of the company’s principal newspaper or televisionbroadcasting markets leading to decreased circulation or local, national or classified advertising; (c) a decline in general newspaper readership patterns as a result of competitive alternative media or other factors; (d) an increase in newsprint or syndication programming costs over the levels anticipated; (e) labor disputes which may cause revenue declines or increased labor costs; (f) acquisitions of new businesses or dispositions of existing businesses; (g) a decline in viewership of major networks and local news programming; (h) rapid technological changes and frequent new product introductions prevalent in electronic publishing; (i) an increase in interest rates; (j) a weakening in the British Sterling to U.S. dollar exchange rate; and (k) general economic, political and business conditions.

86


 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
Gannett Co., Inc. and Subsidiaries

Unaudited, in thousands of dollars

         
  Sept. 28, 2003 Dec. 29, 2002
  
 
ASSETS
        
Current assets
        
Cash and cash equivalents $161,963  $90,374 
Trade receivables, less allowance (2003 - $42,617; 2002 - $36,610)  806,908   827,398 
Inventories  118,217   101,189 
Prepaid expenses and other receivables  155,292   114,118 
   
   
 
Total current assets
  1,242,380   1,133,079 
   
   
 
Property, plant and equipment
        
Cost  4,592,526   4,422,767 
Less accumulated depreciation  (1,992,655)  (1,887,762)
   
   
 
Net property, plant and equipment
  2,599,871   2,535,005 
   
   
 
Intangible and other assets
        
Goodwill  9,334,277   8,822,299 
Other intangible assets, less accumulated amortization  110,869   98,807 
Investments and other assets  1,113,291   1,143,824 
   
   
 
Total intangible and other assets
  10,558,437   10,064,930 
   
   
 
Total assets
 $14,400,688  $13,733,014 
   
   
 
         
  Mar. 28, 2004  Dec. 28, 2003 
ASSETS
        
Current assets
        
Cash and cash equivalents $75,738  $67,188 
Trade receivables, less allowance (2004 - $43,857; 2003 - $41,530)  855,379   907,619 
Inventories  128,303   115,924 
Prepaid expenses and other receivables  144,576   132,530 
         
       
Total current assets
  1,203,996   1,223,261 
       
         
Property, plant and equipment
        
Cost  4,744,081   4,687,898 
Less accumulated depreciation  (2,060,717)  (2,005,630)
         
       
Net property, plant and equipment
  2,683,364   2,682,268 
       
         
Intangible and other assets
        
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets  9,782,875   9,601,767 
Other intangible assets, less accumulated amortization  123,745   108,736 
Investments and other assets  1,135,299   1,090,207 
         
       
Total intangible and other assets
  11,041,919   10,800,710 
       
         
Total assets
 $14,929,279  $14,706,239 
       

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

7


CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
Gannett Co., Inc. and Subsidiaries

Unaudited, in thousands of dollars

         
  Mar. 28, 2004  Dec. 28, 2003 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
        
Current liabilities
        
Accounts payable and current portion of film contracts payable $300,186  $352,822 
Compensation, interest and other accruals  289,167   277,594 
Dividends payable  68,448   68,143 
Income taxes  203,158   101,663 
Deferred income  171,221   161,615 
         
       
Total current liabilities
  1,032,180   961,837 
       
         
Deferred income taxes  758,707   743,975 
Long-term debt  3,718,997   3,834,511 
Postretirement medical and life insurance liabilities  334,809   337,989 
Other long-term liabilities  363,057   312,507 
         
       
Total liabilities
  6,207,750   6,190,819 
       
         
Minority interests in consolidated subsidiaries
  93,637   92,439 
       
         
Shareholders’ equity
        
Preferred stock of $1 par value per share.
Authorized: 2,000,000 shares; Issued: none
        
Common stock of $1 par value per share.
Authorized: 800,000,000 shares; Issued: 324,420,732 shares
  324,421   324,421 
Additional paid-in-capital  503,750   471,581 
Retained earnings  9,650,845   9,444,791 
Accumulated other comprehensive income  391,878   319,305 
 
       
   10,870,894   10,560,098 
       
         
Less treasury stock, 52,188,277 shares and 52,003,686 shares, respectively, at cost  (2,243,002)  (2,137,117)
         
       
Total shareholders’ equity
  8,627,892   8,422,981 
       
         
Total liabilities, minority interests and shareholders’ equity
 $14,929,279  $14,706,239 
       

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

8


CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Gannett Co., Inc. and Subsidiaries
Unaudited, in thousands of dollars (except per share amounts)

             
  Thirteen weeks ended % Inc 
  Mar. 28, 2004  Mar. 30, 2003  (Dec) 
Net Operating Revenues:
            
Newspaper advertising $1,156,011  $1,006,047   14.9 
Newspaper circulation  312,389   302,431   3.3 
Broadcasting  169,458   158,176   7.1 
Other  91,826   85,591   7.3 
          
Total
  1,729,684   1,552,245   11.4 
          
             
Operating Expenses:
            
Cost of sales and operating expenses, exclusive of depreciation  939,448   836,622   12.3 
Selling, general and administrative expenses, exclusive of depreciation  283,030   248,571   13.9 
Depreciation  58,974   54,229   8.7 
Amortization of intangible assets  2,383   1,830   30.2 
          
Total
  1,283,835   1,141,252   12.5 
          
Operating income
  445,849   410,993   8.5 
          
             
Non-operating income (expense):
            
Interest expense  (31,791)  (36,109)  (12.0)
Other  2,850   4,852   (41.3)
          
 
Total
  (28,941)  (31,257)  (7.4)
          
 
Income before income taxes
  416,908   379,736   9.8 
Provision for income taxes  142,500   129,900   9.7 
          
Net income
 $274,408  $249,836   9.8 
          
             
Net income per share-basic
 $1.01  $0.93   8.6 
          
             
Net income per share-diluted
 $1.00  $0.93   7.5 
          
             
Dividends per share
 $0.25  $0.24   4.2 
          

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

9


CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
Gannett Co., Inc. and Subsidiaries

Unaudited, in thousands of dollars

         
  Sept. 28, 2003 Dec. 29, 2002
  
 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
        
Current liabilities
        
Accounts payable and current portion of film contracts payable $297,568  $327,742 
Compensation, interest and other accruals  338,923   287,873 
Dividends payable  67,693   64,443 
Income taxes  153,514   121,276 
Deferred income  165,302   157,291 
   
   
 
Total current liabilities
  1,023,000   958,625 
   
   
 
Deferred income taxes  735,354   678,541 
Long-term debt  4,152,092   4,547,265 
Postretirement medical and life insurance liabilities  349,041   378,855 
Minority interest  98,088    
Other long-term liabilities  269,073   257,933 
   
   
 
Total liabilities
  6,626,648   6,821,219 
   
   
 
Shareholders’ equity
        
Preferred stock of $1 par value per share. Authorized: 2,000,000 shares; Issued: none      
Common stock of $1 par value per share. Authorized: 800,000,000 shares; Issued: 324,420,732 shares  324,421   324,421 
Additional paid-in-capital  339,558   279,778 
Retained earnings  9,154,687   8,498,015 
Accumulated other comprehensive income  140,620   44,190 
   
   
 
   9,959,286   9,146,404 
   
   
 
Less treasury stock, 54,301,393 shares and 56,511,046 shares, respectively, at cost  (2,185,171)  (2,231,557)
Deferred compensation related to ESOP  (75)  (3,052)
   
   
 
Total shareholders’ equity
  7,774,040   6,911,795 
   
   
 
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
 $14,400,688  $13,733,014 
   
   
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

10


 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Gannett Co., Inc. and Subsidiaries

Unaudited, in thousands of dollars (except per share amounts)

             
  Thirteen weeks ended % Inc
  Sept. 28, 2003 Sept. 29, 2002 (Dec)
  
 
 
Net Operating Revenues:
            
Newspaper advertising $1,067,039  $1,006,923   6.0 
Newspaper circulation  300,277   292,659   2.6 
Television  172,302   184,039   (6.4)
Other  91,665   86,058   6.5 
   
   
   
 
Total
  1,631,283   1,569,679   3.9 
   
   
   
 
Operating Expenses:
            
Cost of sales and operating expenses, exclusive of depreciation  849,088   808,882   5.0 
Selling, general and administrative expenses, exclusive of depreciation  259,147   253,735   2.1 
Depreciation  58,452   54,572   7.1 
Amortization of intangible assets  2,134   1,830   16.6 
   
   
   
 
Total
  1,168,821   1,119,019   4.5 
   
   
   
 
Operating income
  462,462   450,660   2.6 
   
   
   
 
Non-operating income (expense):
            
Interest expense  (33,857)  (39,709)  (14.7)
Other  (4,573)  (6,015)  (24.0)
   
   
   
 
Total
  (38,430)  (45,724)  (16.0)
   
   
   
 
Income before income taxes
  424,032   404,936   4.7 
Provision for income taxes  145,000   139,300   4.1 
   
   
   
 
Net income
 $279,032  $265,636   5.0 
   
   
   
 
Net income per share-basic
 $1.03  $0.99   4.0 
   
   
   
 
Net income per share-diluted
 $1.03  $0.99   4.0 
   
   
   
 
Dividends per share
 $0.25  $0.24   4.2 
   
   
   
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

11


CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Gannett Co., Inc. and Subsidiaries

Unaudited, in thousands of dollars (except per share amounts)

             
  Thirty-nine weeks ended % Inc
  Sept. 28, 2003 Sept. 29, 2002 (Dec)
  
 
 
Net Operating Revenues:
            
Newspaper advertising $3,188,467  $3,022,664   5.5 
Newspaper circulation  905,888   885,911   2.3 
Television  523,205   542,524   (3.6)
Other  271,251   244,928   10.7 
   
   
   
 
Total
  4,888,811   4,696,027   4.1 
   
   
   
 
Operating Expenses:
            
Cost of sales and operating expenses, exclusive of depreciation  2,542,682   2,415,253   5.3 
Selling, general and administrative expenses, exclusive of depreciation  770,635   756,600   1.9 
Depreciation  167,759   161,303   4.0 
Amortization of intangible assets  6,138   5,497   11.7 
   
   
   
 
Total
  3,487,214   3,338,653   4.4 
   
   
   
 
Operating income
  1,401,597   1,357,374   3.3 
   
   
   
 
Non-operating income (expense):
            
Interest expense  (106,300)  (109,564)  (3.0)
Other  1,178   (8,388)  *** 
   
   
   
 
Total
  (105,122)  (117,952)  (10.9)
   
   
   
 
Income before income taxes
  1,296,475   1,239,422   4.6 
Provision for income taxes  443,300   426,300   4.0 
   
   
   
 
Net income
 $853,175  $813,122   4.9 
   
   
   
 
Net income per share-basic
 $3.17  $3.05   3.9 
   
   
   
 
Net income per share-diluted
 $3.15  $3.02   4.3 
   
   
   
 
Dividends per share
 $0.73  $0.70   4.3 
   
   
   
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

12


CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Gannett Co., Inc. and Subsidiaries

Unaudited, in thousands of dollars

            
     Thirty-nine weeks ended
     Sept. 28, 2003 Sept. 29, 2002
     
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
        
 Net Income $853,175  $813,122 
  Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash flows from operating activities:        
   Depreciation  167,759   161,303 
   Amortization of intangibles  6,138   5,497 
   Deferred income taxes  49,639   30,713 
   Other, net  12,157   (25,238)
    
   
 
 
Net cash flows from operating activities
  1,088,868   985,397 
    
   
 
Cash flows from investing activities:
        
 Purchase of property, plant and equipment  (171,176)  (175,652)
 Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired  (364,346)  (35,266)
 Payments for investments  (23,708)  (15,825)
 Proceeds from investments  9,500   44,893 
 Proceeds from sale of certain assets  10,251   3,774 
    
   
 
 
Net cash used for investing activities
  (539,479)  (178,076)
    
   
 
Cash flows from financing activities
        
 Net payment of long-term debt, net of debt issuance fees  (395,173)  (760,389)
 Dividends paid  (193,254)  (183,566)
 Proceeds from issuance of common stock  106,639   61,668 
    
   
 
 
Net cash used for financing activities
  (481,788)  (882,287)
    
   
 
Effect of currency rate change
  3,988   2,236 
    
   
 
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
  71,589   (72,730)
Balance of cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
  90,374   140,629 
    
   
 
Balance of cash and cash equivalents at end of third quarter
 $161,963  $67,899 
    
   
 
         
  Thirteen weeks ended
  Mar. 28, 2004 Mar. 30, 2003
      
Cash flows from operating activities:
        
Net Income $274,408  $249,836 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to operating cash flows:        
Depreciation  58,974   54,229 
Amortization of intangibles  2,383   1,830 
Pension contributions, net of pension expense  (26,740)  29,511 
Deferred income taxes  13,900   4,998 
Other, net  69,127   61,697 
         
       
Net cash flow from operating activities
  392,052   402,101 
       
 
Cash flows from investing activities:
        
Purchase of property, plant and equipment  (58,702)  (43,947)
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired  (109,440)   
Payments for investments  (5,629)  (11,863)
Proceeds from investments  2,681   2,489 
Proceeds from sale of certain assets  6,841   749 
         
       
Net cash used for investing activities
  (164,249)  (52,572)
       
 
Cash flows from financing activities:
        
Net payment of long-term debt, net of debt issuance fees  (115,513)  (8,544)
Dividends paid  (68,049)  (64,269)
Cost of common shares repurchased  (86,470)   
Proceeds from issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options  49,927   24,346 
         
       
Net cash used for financing activities
  (220,105)  (48,467)
       
 
         
Effect of currency rate change
  852   1,612 
       
         
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
  8,550   302,674 
Balance of cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
  67,188   90,374 
       
Balance of cash and cash equivalents at end of first quarter
 $75,738  $393,048 
       

Certain amounts have been reclassified to conform with the current year presentation.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

1310


 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SeptemberMarch 28, 20032004

1. Basis of presentation

      The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions for Form 10-Q and, therefore, do not include all information and footnotes which are normally included in the Form 10-K and annual report to shareholders. The financial statements covering the 13-week and 39-week periodsperiod ended SeptemberMarch 28, 2003,2004, and the comparative periodsperiod of 2002,2003, reflect all adjustments which, in the opinion of the company, are necessary for a fair statement of results for the interim periods and reflect all normal and recurring adjustments which are necessary for a fair presentation of the company’s financial position, results of operations and cash flows as of the dates and for the periods presented.

2. Stock-based compensation

     Stock-based compensation is accounted for by using the intrinsic value basedvalue-based method in accordance with Accounting Principles Board Opinion APB No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees” (“APB No. 25”). Under APB No. 25, because the exercise price of the company’s employee stock options equals the market price of the underlying stock on the date of the grant, no compensation expense is recognized. As permitted, the company has elected to adopt the disclosure only provisions of SFAS No. 123,148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation”Compensation-Transition and Disclosure-an amendment of FASB Statement No. 123” (“SFAS No. 123”148”).

     SFAS No. 123 establishes a fair value basedvalue-based method of accounting for employee stock-based compensation plans. The company has chosen to continue to report stock-based compensation in accordance with APB No. 25, and provides the following pro forma disclosure of the effects of applying the fair value method to all applicable awards granted. Had compensation cost for the company’s stock options been determined based on the fair value at the grant date for those awards as permitted (but not required) under the alternative method of SFAS No. 123, the company’s results of operations and related per share amounts would have been reduced to the pro forma amounts indicated below:

          
Third Quarter 2003 2002
  
 
Net income as reported
 $279,032  $265,636 
Less: Total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under fair value based method for all awards, net of related tax effects  15,104   13,115 
   
   
 
Pro forma net income
 $263,928  $252,521 
   
   
 
Earnings per share:
        
 Basic - as reported $1.03  $0.99 
   
   
 
 Basic - pro forma $0.98  $0.95 
   
   
 
 Diluted - as reported $1.03  $0.99 
   
   
 
 Diluted - pro forma $0.97  $0.94 
   
   
 
          
First Quarter 2004  2003 
(in thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)      
 
Net income as reported $274,408  $249,836 
Less:Total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under
fair value-based method for all awards, net of related tax effects
  18,442   16,682 
 
        
Pro forma net income$255,966  $233,154 
        
 
Earnings per share:
 
 Basic - as reported $1.01  $0.93 
        
 
 Basic - pro forma $0.94  $0.87 
        
 
 Diluted - as reported $1.00  $0.93 
        
 
 Diluted - pro forma $0.93  $0.86 
        

1411


 

          
Year-to-date 2003 2002
  
 
Net income as reported
 $853,175  $813,122 
Less: Total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under fair value based method for all awards, net of related tax effects  48,094   39,985 
   
   
 
Pro forma net income
 $805,081  $773,137 
   
   
 
Earnings per share:
        
 Basic - as reported $3.17  $3.05 
   
   
 
 Basic - pro forma $2.99  $2.90 
   
   
 
 Diluted - as reported $3.15  $3.02 
   
   
 
 Diluted - pro forma $2.97  $2.87 
   
   
 

3. Acquisitions and dispositions

     During the first quarter of 2003,On February 2, 2004, the company completedacquired NurseWeek, a non-monetary transaction under which it contributedmultimedia company with print publications and an award-winning Web site focused on the recruitment, recognition and education of nurses. NurseWeek is being operated as a separate publication of Nursing Spectrum, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the company. Altogether, Nursing Spectrum operations now include 12 regional magazines with a combined distribution to more than 1 million registered nurses. The two Web sites, www.nurseweek.com and www.nursingspectrum.com, average more than 1.8 million page views per month.

     On February 16, 2004, the company exchanged its daily newspaper, The Times in El Paso to a newly formed partnership, Texas-New Mexico Newspapers Partnership. The partnership includesGainesville, Georgia, and non-daily publications in the El Paso newspaper and five otherGainesville area for two daily newspapers and non-daily publications in nearby New Mexico that were contributed by Media News Group. In exchange for its contribution, the company received a 66% interest in the partnership.Tennessee, plus cash consideration. The company recorded this non-monetary transaction as two simultaneous but separate events; that is, athe sale of 34% of its interestpublications in the El Paso newspaperGainesville for which a non-operating gain was recognized and the acquisition of a 66% interestthe publications in Tennessee accounted for under the purchase method of accounting.

     During the first quarter of 2004, the company also purchased several small non-daily publications in the New MexicoU.S.

     The acquisitions of NurseWeek, the two daily newspapers through its investment in Tennessee and several non-daily publications, which had an aggregate purchase price of approximately $109.4 million, were recorded under the partnership. The non-monetary gain from the partnership transaction is reflected in non-operating income and was partially offset by other non-operating charges, including losses from minority interest investments in Internet businesses. This acquisition did not significantly affect newspaper operating results for the first nine months.

     In early April 2003, the company completed its acquisitionpurchase method of the publishing business of SMG plc (“Newsquest Scotland”) for approximately £216 million (U.S. $340 million). In April 2003, the company began including the operations of Newsquest Scotland in the company’s consolidated operating results. Newsquest Scotland consists of three Scottish newspapers, eleven specialty consumer and business-to-business magazine titles, and an online advertising and content business. The company purchased 100% of the stock of the Newsquest Scotland businesses.accounting. The company is in the process of obtaining third party valuations of certain intangible assets,recently acquired businesses, thus the allocation of the purchase price is preliminary. The 2004 acquisitions did not have a material impact on operating results for the first quarter of 2004.

     On August 28, 2003,April 2, 2004, the company acquired the majority interestassets of Captivate Network, Inc., a national news and entertainment network that delivers quality programming and full motion video advertising to more than 1.4 million affluent consumers and business professionals each day. Captivate is seen in The Ashland Media Groupa distraction-free viewing environment, on wireless digital video screens in Phoenix, Arizona. Ashland Media publishes TV & Mas, La Voz and TV Shopper which are weekly publications. Ashland Media also has a direct marketing business, AZ Mail. This acquisition did not significantly affect newspaper operating results for the third quarter.elevators of premier office towers across North America.

     On October 31, 2003, the company acquired Clipper Magazine, Inc., one of the nation's largest direct-mail advertising magazine companies. The acquisition also includes several affiliated operations including a full service advertising agency, an e-mail customer retention service, a direct mail service to new movers and MyClipper.com, a companion web site for the core direct mail advertising offerings.     The company does not expect this acquisitionhas an agreement to materially affect the company's financial position or results of operations.sell its NBC affiliate in Kingman, Arizona, KMOH-TV.

4. Goodwill and other intangible assets

     In accordance with SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” which eliminated the amortization of goodwill and other intangibles with indefinite useful lives, theThe company performed an impairment test of its goodwill and determined that no impairment of goodwill existed at Dec. 29, 2002.28, 2003. Intangible assets that have finite useful lives are amortized over their useful lives and are also subject to tests for impairment.

     The following table displays the intangible assets that are subject to amortization and the intangible assets that are not subject to amortization as of SeptemberMar. 28, 2003,2004, and December 29, 2002:Dec. 28, 2003:

15


Goodwill and other intangible assets are as follows:

                 
  Sept. 28, 2003 Dec. 29, 2002
  
 
      Accumulated     Accumulated
(in thousands of dollars) Cost Amortization Cost Amortization
  
 
 
 
Amortized intangible assets:                
Subscriber lists $128,000  $17,131  $109,800  $10,993 
Unamortized intangible assets:                
Goodwill $9,331,277  $  $8,822,299  $ 
                 
  Mar. 28, 2004 Dec. 28, 2003
(in thousands of dollars) Gross Accumulated
Amortization
  Gross Accumulated
Amortization
                 
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets $9,782,875  $-  $9,601,767  $- 
                 
Amortizable intangible assets $145,392  $21,647  $128,000  $19,264 

     As of September 28, 2003, Newspaper goodwill was $7.8 billion and Television goodwill was $1.5 billion.     Goodwill increased primarily due to the acquisition of Newsquest Scotland and the Texas-New Mexico partnershipNurseWeek transaction as described in Note 3 in additionand to currency fluctuations.a higher foreign exchange rate.

     Amortization expense for subscriber lists was $2.1$2.4 million in the quarter ended SeptemberMarch 28, 20032004. Amortizable intangible assets, are primarily subscriber and $6.1 million year-to-date. Subscriber listsadvertiser relationships with amortization periods up to 25 years and are amortized on a straight-line basis over 15 years.basis. For 2003,each of the next five years, amortization expense relating to the identified intangibles is expected to be approximately $8.3 million. For each of the next four years after 2003, amortization expense relating to identified intangibles is expected to be approximately $8.5$10.0 million.

12


             
(in thousands of dollars) Newspaper
Publishing
 Broadcasting Total 
              
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, net
            
Balance at Dec. 28, 2003
 $8,075,489  $1,526,278  $9,601,767 
Acquisitions and adjustments  120,281   -   120,281 
Dispositions  (6,103)  -   (6,103)
Foreign currency exchange rate changes  66,930   -   66,930 
   
Balance at Mar. 28, 2004
 $8,256,597  $1,526,278  $9,782,875 
   
             
(in thousands of dollars) Newspaper
Publishing
 Broadcasting Total 
              
Amortizable intangible assets, net
            
Balance at Dec. 28, 2003
 $108,736  $-  $108,736 
Acquisitions  5,000   -   5,000 
Adjustments for previous acquisitions  12,392   -   12,392 
Amortization  (2,383)  -   (2,383)
   
Balance at Mar. 28, 2004
 $123,745  $-  $123,745
   

5. Long-term debt

     In March 2003,2004, the company renewed and downsizedentered into a $2.46 billion revolving credit agreement, which consists of a $622.5 million 364-day facility that was part of a revolving credit agreement entered into in March 2002. The $1.2 billion 364-day facility extends to March 2004.2005 and a $1.8375 billion 5-year facility that extends to March 2009. At the end of the 364-day period, any borrowings outstanding under the 364-day credit facility are convertible into a one-year term loan at the company’s option. Also in March 2004, the company entered into a $200 million two-year revolving credit facility that extends to March 2006. At the end of the two-year period, any borrowings outstanding under the two-year credit facility are convertible into a one-year term loan at the company’s option.

     During the first quarter of 2004, the company terminated its $1.53 billion revolving credit agreement that was due to expire in July 2005. The company hasalso terminated its $1.3375 billion 364-day revolving credit agreements for commercial paper backup and for general corporate purposes.facility that was due to expire in March 2004.

     At SeptemberMarch 28, 2003,2004, the company had a total of $4.1$4.025 billion of credit available under two revolving credit agreements. At December 29, 2002, the company had a total of $4.3 billion of credit available under twothree revolving credit agreements. As a result of these two credit agreements, commercial paper is carried on the balance sheet as long-term debt.

     Approximate annual maturities of long-term debt, assuming that the company used the $4.1$4.025 billion credit available under the revolving credit agreements to refinance existing unsecured promissory notes on a long-term basis and assuming the company’s other indebtedness was paid on its scheduled pay dates, are as follows:

     
(in thousands) Sept. 28, 2003
  
2004 $ 
2005  1,486,219 
2006  14,346 
2007  2,061,504 
2008  82,203 
Later years  507,820 
   
 
Total $4,152,092 
   
 
     
(in thousands of dollars) Mar. 28, 2004
      
2005 $- 
2006  15,034 
2007  1,296,644 
2008  82,962 
2009  1,826,150 
Later years  498,207 
    
Total $3,718,997 
    

13


     The fair value of the company’s total long-term debt, determined based on quoted market prices for similar issues of debt with the same remaining maturities and similar terms, totaled $4.31$3.88 billion at SeptemberMarch 28, 2003.2004.

     The company has a 13.5% general partnership interest in Ponderay Newsprint Company. The company, on a several basis, is a guarantor of 13.5% of the principal and interest on a term loan held by Ponderay that totals $106$93 million at SeptemberMarch 28, 2003.2004.

166. Retirement plans

     The company and its subsidiaries have various retirement plans, including plans established under collective bargaining agreements, under which substantially all full-time employees are covered. The Gannett Retirement Plan is the company’s principal retirement plan and covers most U.S. employees of the company and its subsidiaries. The company’s pension costs, which include costs for qualified, nonqualified and union plans, for the first quarter of 2004 and 2003 are presented in the following table:

         
First quarter
(in thousands of dollars)
 2004  2003 
 
Service cost-benefits earned during the period $23,330  $18,788 
Interest cost on benefit obligation  42,390   38,983 
Expected return on plan assets  (53,310)  (42,525)
Amortization of transition asset     (17)
Amortization of prior service credit  (5,350)  (5,085)
Amortization of actuarial loss  14,570   18,007 
       
      
Pension expense for company-sponsored retirement plans $21,630  $28,151 
       
      
Union and other pension cost  2,100   1,847 
       
      
Pension cost $23,730  $29,998 
       

The company made a voluntary tax deductible contribution of $50 million to the Gannett Retirement Plan in February 2004. Subsequent to the end of the first quarter, the company also made a voluntary tax deductible contribution of $25.6 million to its U.K. retirement plan.

7. Postretirement benefits other than pension

     The company provides health care and life insurance benefits to certain retired employees who meet age and service requirements. Most of the company’s retirees contribute to the cost of these benefits and retiree contributions are increased as actual benefit costs increase. The company’s policy is to fund benefits as claims and premiums are paid. Postretirement benefit costs for health care and life insurance for the first quarter of 2004 and 2003 are presented in the following table:

         
First quarter      
(in thousands of dollars) 2004  2003 
 
Service cost-benefits earned during the period $488  $783 
Interest cost on benefit obligation  4,138   4,939 
Amortization of prior service credit  (3,100)  (2,960)
Amortization of actuarial loss  787   397 
       
          
Net periodic postretirement cost $2,313  $3,159 
       

14


 

6.8. Comprehensive income

     Comprehensive income for the company includes net income; foreign currency translation adjustments; and unrealized gains or losses on available-for-sale securities, as defined under SFAS No. 115, “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities.”

     Comprehensive income totaled $295.5$347.0 million for the thirdfirst quarter of 20032004 and $306.9$200.1 million for the third quarter of 2002. Net income totaled $279.0 million and other comprehensive income totaled $16.5 million for the thirdfirst quarter of 2003. Net income totaled $265.6$274.4 million and other comprehensive income, totaled $41.3 million for the third quarter of 2002. Foreignwhich was entirely related to foreign currency translation, adjustments were the most significant component of other comprehensive incometotaled $72.6 million in the third quarter of 2003 and 2002.

     Comprehensive income totaled $949.6 million for the first nine months of 2003 and $908.0 million for the first nine months of 2002.2004. Net income totaled $853.2$249.8 million and other comprehensive income totaled $96.4 million for the first nine monthslosses, consisting primarily of 2003. Net income totaled $813.1 million and other comprehensive income totaled $94.9 million for the first nine months of 2002. Foreignforeign currency translation, adjustments were the most significant component of other comprehensive incometotaled $49.7 million in the first nine months of 2003 and 2002.2003.

7.9. Outstanding shares

     The weighted average number of common shares outstanding (basic) in the third quarter of 2003 totaled 269,815,000 compared to 267,056,000 for the third quarter of 2002. The weighted average number of diluted shares outstanding in the third quarter of 2003 totaled 272,174,000 compared to 269,306,000 for the third quarter of 2002.

     The weighted average number of common shares outstanding (basic) in the first nine months of 2003quarter totaled 268,947,000272,321,000 compared to 266,674,000268,179,000 for the first nine monthsquarter of 2002.2003. The weighted average number of diluted shares outstanding in the first nine months of 2003quarter totaled 271,114,000275,507,000 compared to 269,105,000270,059,000 for the first nine monthsquarter of 2002.2003.

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10. Business segment information

             
(unaudited, in thousands of dollars) Thirteen weeks ended % Inc 
  Mar. 28, 2004  Mar. 30, 2003  (Dec) 
Net Operating Revenues:
            
Newspaper publishing $1,560,226  $1,394,069   11.9 
Broadcasting  169,458   158,176   7.1 
          
Total
 $1,729,684  $1,552,245   11.4 
          
             
Operating Income (net of depreciation and amortization):
            
Newspaper publishing $392,265  $362,485   8.2 
Broadcasting  70,158   63,955   9.7 
Corporate  (16,574)  (15,447)  (7.3)
          
Total
 $445,849  $410,993   8.5 
          
             
Depreciation and Amortization:
            
Newspaper publishing $50,538  $45,582   10.9 
Broadcasting  6,881   6,571   4.7 
Corporate  3,938   3,906   0.8 
          
Total
 $61,357  $56,059   9.5 
          
             
Operating Cash Flow (1):
            
Newspaper publishing $442,803  $408,067   8.5 
Broadcasting  77,039   70,526   9.2 
Corporate  (12,636)  (11,541)  (9.5)
          
Total
 $507,206  $467,052   8.6 
          

8. Business Segment Information

BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION
Gannett Co., Inc. and Subsidiaries

Unaudited, in thousands of dollars

             
  Thirteen weeks ended % Inc
  Sept. 28, 2003 Sept. 29, 2002 (Dec)
Net Operating Revenues:
            
Newspaper publishing $1,458,981  $1,385,640   5.3 
Television  172,302   184,039   (6.4)
   
   
   
 
Total
 $1,631,283  $1,569,679   3.9 
   
   
   
 
Operating Income (net of depreciation and amortization):
            
Newspaper publishing $405,339  $384,298   5.5 
Television  72,622   81,506   (10.9)
Corporate  (15,499)  (15,144)  (2.3)
   
   
   
 
Total
 $462,462  $450,660   2.6 
   
   
   
 
Depreciation and Amortization:
            
Newspaper publishing $50,055  $46,252   8.2 
Television  6,644   6,400   3.8 
Corporate  3,887   3,750   3.7 
   
   
   
 
Total
 $60,586  $56,402   7.4 
   
   
   
 
Operating Cash Flow (1):
            
Newspaper publishing $455,394  $430,550   5.8 
Television  79,266   87,906   (9.8)
Corporate  (11,612)  (11,394)  (1.9)
   
   
   
 
Total
 $523,048  $507,062   3.2 
   
   
   
 

(1)Operating Cash Flow represents operating income for each of the company’s business segments plus related depreciation and amortization expense. See the discussion below for reconciliation of amounts to the Consolidated Statements of Income.

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BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION
Gannett Co., Inc. and Subsidiaries

Unaudited, in thousands of dollars

             
  Thirty-nine weeks ended % Inc
  Sept. 28, 2003 Sept. 29, 2002 (Dec)
Net Operating Revenues:
            
Newspaper publishing $4,365,606  $4,153,503   5.1 
Television  523,205   542,524   (3.6)
   
   
   
 
Total
 $4,888,811  $4,696,027   4.1 
   
   
   
 
Operating Income (net of depreciation and amortization):
            
Newspaper publishing $1,216,300  $1,154,226   5.4 
Television  232,164   248,738   (6.7)
Corporate  (46,867)  (45,590)  (2.8)
   
   
   
 
Total
 $1,401,597  $1,357,374   3.3 
   
   
   
 
Depreciation and Amortization:
            
Newspaper publishing $142,419  $136,802   4.1 
Television  19,857   19,148   3.7 
Corporate  11,621   10,850   7.1 
   
   
   
 
Total
 $173,897  $166,800   4.3 
   
   
   
 
Operating Cash Flow (1):
            
Newspaper publishing $1,358,719  $1,291,028   5.2 
Television  252,021   267,886   (5.9)
Corporate  (35,246)  (34,740)  (1.5)
   
   
   
 
Total
 $1,575,494  $1,524,174   3.4 
   
   
   
 

(1) Operating Cash Flow represents operating income for each of the company’s business segments plus related depreciation and amortization expense. See the discussion below for reconciliation of amounts to the Consolidated Statements of Income.

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     A reconciliation of “Operating Cash Flow” to “Operating Income”, as presented in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income and Business Segment Information, follows:

                 
Thirteen weeks                
ended September 28,                
2003 Newspaper Publishing Television Corporate Consolidated Total

 
 
 
 
Operating cash flow
 $455,394  $79,266  $(11,612) $523,048 
Less:
                
Depreciation  (47,921)  (6,644)  (3,887)  (58,452)
Amortization  (2,134)        (2,134)
   
   
   
   
 
Operating income
 $405,339  $72,622  $(15,499) $462,462 
   
   
   
   
 
                 
Thirteen weeks                
ended September 29,                
2002 Newspaper Publishing Television Corporate Consolidated Total

 
 
 
 
Operating cash flow
 $430,550  $87,906  $(11,394) $507,062 
Less:
                
Depreciation  (44,422)  (6,400)  (3,750)  (54,572)
Amortization  (1,830)        (1,830)
   
   
   
   
 
Operating income
 $384,298  $81,506  $(15,144) $450,660 
   
   
   
   
 
                 
Thirty-nine weeks                
ended September 28,                
2003 Newspaper Publishing Television Corporate Consolidated Total

 
 
 
 
Operating cash flow
 $1,358,719  $252,021  $(35,246) $1,575,494 
Less:
                
Depreciation  (136,281)  (19,857)  (11,621)  (167,759)
Amortization  (6,138)        (6,138)
   
   
   
   
 
Operating income
 $1,216,300  $232,164  $(46,867) $1,401,597 
   
   
   
   
 
                 
Thirty-nine weeks                
ended September 29,                
2002 Newspaper Publishing Television Corporate Consolidated Total

 
 
 
 
Operating cash flow
 $1,291,028  $267,886  $(34,740) $1,524,174 
Less:
                
Depreciation  (131,305)  (19,148)  (10,850)  (161,303)
Amortization  (5,497)        (5,497)
   
   
   
   
 
Operating income
 $1,154,226  $248,738  $(45,590) $1,357,374 
   
   
   
   
 
                 
Thirteen weeks ended Mar. 28, 2004Newspaper          Consolidated 
(in thousands of dollars) Publishing  Broadcasting  Corporate  Total 
                 
Operating cash flow
 $442,803  $77,039  $(12,636) $507,206 
Less:
                
Depreciation  (48,155)  (6,881)  (3,938)  (58,974)
Amortization  (2,383)  -   -   (2,383)
             
Operating income
 $392,265  $70,158  $(16,574) $445,849 
             
                 
Thirteen weeks ended Mar. 30, 2003Newspaper          Consolidated 
(in thousands of dollars) Publishing  Broadcasting  Corporate  Total 
                 
Operating cash flow
 $408,067  $70,526  $(11,541) $467,052 
Less:
                
Depreciation  (43,752)  (6,571)  (3,906)  (54,229)
Amortization  (1,830)  -   -   (1,830)
             
Operating income
 $362,485  $63,955  $(15,447) $410,993 
             

2011. Accounting pronouncements

     The Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 (the Act) became law in December 2003. The Act introduces a prescription drug benefit under Medicare (Medicare Part D) as well as a federal subsidy to sponsors of retiree health care benefit plans that provide a benefit that is at least actuarially equivalent to Medicare Part D. Questions have arisen regarding whether an employer that provides postretirement prescription drug coverage (a plan) should recognize the effects of the Act on its accumulated postretirement benefit obligation and net postretirement benefit costs and, if so, when and how to account for those effects.

     In response to these questions, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position 106-1 (FSP 106-1), which confirms that companies are required to account for changes in relevant laws. FSP 106-1, however, also recognized that the accounting for the federal subsidy was not explicitly addressed in the accounting literature and therefore allowed companies to defer accounting for the Act until guidance is issued. As permitted by FSP 106-1, the company has deferred accounting for the effects of the Act until the authoritative guidance is issued, which could require the company to change previously reported information.

17


 

9. Accounting Pronouncements

     In January 2003, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Interpretation No. 46, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities”. FIN 46 requires that companies that control another entity through interests other than voting interests should consolidate the controlled entity. FIN 46 is effective for all new variable interest entities created or acquired after January 31, 2003. For variable interest entities created or acquired prior to February 1, 2003, the provisions of FIN 46 must be applied for the first interim or annual period ending after December 15, 2003. The company does not expect the implementation of FIN 46 to have a material effect on its financial condition or results of operations.

21


Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

     The company is not subject to market risk associated with derivative commodity instruments, as the company is not a party to any such instruments. The company believes that its market risk from financial instruments, such as accounts receivable, accounts payable and debt, is not material. The company is exposed to foreign exchange rate risk primarily due to its operations in the United Kingdom, for which Sterling is the functional currency, which is then translated into U.S. dollars. Translation gains or losses affecting the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income have not been significant in the past. If the price of Sterling against the U.S. dollar had been 10% less than the actual price, reported net income for the first ninethree months of 2003 would have decreased less than 1%approximately 2%.

     Because the company has $2.3$1.82 billion in commercial paper obligations at SeptemberMarch 28, 20032004 that have relatively short-term maturity dates, the company is subject to significant changes in the amount of interest expense it might incur. Assuming the current level of commercial paper borrowings, a 1/2% increase or decrease in the average interest rate for commercial paper would result in an increase or decrease in annual interest expense of $11.5 million.$9.1 million, respectively.

     The fair value of the company’s total long-term debt, determined based on quoted market prices for similar issues of debt with the same remaining maturities and similar terms, totaled $4.31$3.88 billion at SeptemberMarch 28, 2003.2004.

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

     Based on their evaluation, the company’s Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer and Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer have concluded the company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of SeptemberMarch 28, 20032004, to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that the company files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. There have been no significant changes in the company’s internal controls or in other factors that have materially affected, or isare reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal controls over financial reporting.

2218


 

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 2. Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds

On February 9, 2004, the company announced the reactivation of its existing share repurchase program that was last implemented in February 2000.

               
 
 Period 
 (a) Total Number
of Shares
Purchased
  (b) Average
Price Paid per
Share
  (c) Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Program  (d) Maximum Number (or
Approximate Dollar Value) of Shares
that May Yet Be Purchased Under
the Program
 
 (12/29/03–
2/1/04)
  -  N/A  -  $290,572,896 
 2/2/04 –2/29/04  74,400  $86.42  74,400  $284,142,947 
 3/1/04 – 3/28/04  933,600  $85.73  933,600  $204,102,617 
 Total 2004  1,008,000  $85.78  1,008,000  $204,102,617 
 

All the shares included in the table above were repurchased as part of the repurchase program announced on February 1, 2000 authorizing $500 million in repurchases. An additional $500 million was authorized for the repurchase program on February 23, 2000. There is no expiration date for the repurchase program. No repurchase programs expired during the periods presented above, and management does not intend to terminate the repurchase program. There were no shares purchased other than through the company’s publicly announced program.

Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

(a)Exhibits
See Exhibit Index for list of exhibits filed with this report.
(b)Form 8-K
(i)Current Report on Form 8-K furnished July 15, 2003, in connection with the announcement of the company’s second quarter earnings under Item 12.

SIGNATURES     (a) Exhibits.

          See Exhibit Index for list of exhibits filed with this report.

     (b) Form 8-K

           Current Report on Form 8-K submitted February 2, 2004, in connection with disclosure of results of operations and financial condition.

SIGNATURES

     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

GANNETT CO., INC.

Date: May 4, 2004/s/George R. Gavagan
George R. Gavagan
Vice President and Controller
(on behalf of Registrant and as Chief Accounting Officer)

19


EXHIBIT INDEX

     
Exhibit GANNETT CO., INC.
NumberExhibitLocation
     
Date: November 3, 2003
/s/ George R. Gavagan

George R. Gavagan
Vice President and Controller

23


EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibit
NumberDescriptionLocation
3-1 Second Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Gannett Co., Inc. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3-1 to Gannett Co., Inc.’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 26, 1993 (“1993 Form 10-K”). Amendment incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3-1 to the 1993 Form 10-K. Amendment dated May 2, 2000, incorporated by reference to Gannett Co., Inc.’s Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended March 26, 2000.
     
3-2 By-laws of Gannett Co., Inc. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3-2 to Gannett Co., Inc.’s Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended June 29, 2003.Attached.
     
3-3 Form of Certificate of Designation, Preferences and Rights setting forth the terms of the Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $1.00 per share, of Gannett Co., Inc. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1 to Gannett Co., Inc.’s Form 8-A filed on May 23, 1990.
     
4-1 Rights Agreement, dated as of May 21, 1990, between Gannett Co., Inc. and First Chicago Trust Company of New York, as Rights Agent. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1 to Gannett Co., Inc.’s Form 8-A filed on May 23, 1990.
     
4-2 Amendment No. 1 to Rights Agreement, dated as of May 2, 2000, between Gannett Co., Inc. and Norwest Bank Minnesota, N.A., as successor rights agent to First Chicago Trust Company of New York. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2 to Gannett Co., Inc.’s Form 8-A/A filed on May 2, 2000.
     
4-3 Form of Rights Certificate. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1 to Gannett Co., Inc.’s Form 8-A filed on May 23, 1990.
     
4-4 Specimen Certificate for Gannett Co., Inc.’s common stock, par value $1.00 per share. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2 to Gannett Co., Inc.’s Form 8-B filed on June 14, 1972.
     
10-1 Revolving Credit Agreement among Gannett Co., Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan Restatement, the Several Lenders from Time to Time Parties Thereto, and Bank One, N.A., as Administrative Agent, dated as of February 1, 2003 (reflects all amendments through October 20, 2003). *27, 2004 and Effective as of March 15, 2004. Attached.
     
10-2 EmploymentCompetitive Advance and Revolving Credit Agreement among Gannett Co., Inc., the Several Lenders from Time to Time Parties Thereto, Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent and JPMorgan Chase Bank, as Syndication Agent, dated as of July 21, 2003 between February 27, 2004 and Effective as of March 15, 2004.Attached.
10-3Gannett Co., Inc. and Douglas H. McCorkindale. Deferred Compensation Plan Restatement dated February 1, 2003 (reflects all amendments through February 23, 2004).* Attached.

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Exhibit
NumberDescriptionLocation
11 Statement re: computationRegarding Computation of earnings per share.Earnings Per Share Attached.
     
31-1 Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Attached.
     
31-2 Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Attached.
     
32-1 Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, asAs Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Attached.
     
32-2 Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, asAs Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Attached.

     The company agrees to furnish to the Commission, upon request, a copy of each agreement with respect to long-term debt not filed herewith in reliance upon the exemption from filing applicable to any series of debt which does not exceed 10% of the total consolidated assets of the company.

*     
*Asterisks identify management contracts and compensatory plans or arrangements.

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