Gannett 10-Q 3 Nov 16 2016 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - shares	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016	Oct. 28, 2016
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	Gannett Co., Inc.
Entity Central Index Key	1,635,718
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Sep. 25, 2016
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,016
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-25
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock Shares Outstanding		116,608,382
Trading Symbol	GCI

Condensed Consolidated Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 116,801	$ 196,696
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $8,663 and $8,836, respectively	318,259	330,473
Other receivables	23,814	36,114
Inventories	38,455	25,777
Assets held for sale	2,001	12,288
Prepaid income taxes	26,593	935
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	33,169	27,253
Total current assets	559,092	629,536
Property, plant and equipment, at cost less accumulated depreciation of $1,525,101 and $1,645,984, respectively	1,113,861	896,585
Goodwill	699,891	575,685
Intangible assets, net	187,104	59,713
Deferred income taxes (see Note 1)	112,765	201,991
Investments and other assets	83,126	64,289
Total assets	2,755,839	2,427,799
Current liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	453,414	393,026
Dividends payable	0	18,501
Deferred income	137,760	78,967
Total current liabilities	591,174	490,494
Income taxes	21,545	22,221
Postretirement medical and life insurance liabilities (see Note 1)	87,731	87,594
Pension liabilities (see Note 1)	442,539	612,443
Long-term portion of revolving credit facility	385,000	0
Other noncurrent liabilities	162,736	156,471
Total liabilities	1,690,725	1,369,223
Equity
Preferred stock of $0.01 par value per share, 5,000,000 shares authorized, none issued	0	0
Common stock of $0.01 par value per share, 500,000,000 shares authorized, 116,589,000 and 115,668,957 shares issued and outstanding, respectively	1,166	1,156
Additional paid-in capital (see Note 1)	1,742,801	1,708,291
Retained earnings (deficit)	(14,049)	22,553
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (see Note 1)	(664,804)	(673,424)
Total equity	1,065,114	1,058,576
Total liabilities and equity	$ 2,755,839	$ 2,427,799

Condensed Consolidated Balance3

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable	$ 8,663	$ 8,836
Accumulated depreciation	$ 1,525,101	$ 1,645,984
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred stock, authorized shares	5,000,000	5,000,000
Preferred stock, issued shares	0	0
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, authorized shares	500,000,000	500,000,000
Common stock, issued shares	116,589,000	115,668,957
Common stock, shares outstanding	116,589,000	115,668,957

Condensed Consolidated and Comb

Condensed Consolidated and Combined Statements of Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015
Operating revenues:
Advertising	$ 429,053	$ 384,149	$ 1,190,108	$ 1,191,902
Circulation	285,583	265,227	835,872	802,389
Other	57,685	51,860	154,500	151,377
Total operating revenues	772,321	701,236	2,180,480	2,145,668
Operating expenses:
Cost of sales and operating expenses	517,141	446,358	1,423,551	1,394,733
Selling, general and administrative expenses	219,456	173,035	589,017	528,248
Depreciation	30,638	25,291	83,889	73,677
Amortization	5,003	3,096	7,961	10,103
Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges	28,673	1,343	33,160	7,989
Total operating expenses	800,911	649,123	2,137,578	2,014,750
Operating income (loss)	(28,590)	52,113	42,902	130,918
Non-operating income (expense):
Equity income (loss) in unconsolidated investees, net	(766)	609	844	11,411
Interest expense	(3,652)	(1,582)	(8,509)	(1,760)
Other non-operating items, net	(176)	(1,833)	(2,964)	19,782
Total non-operating income (expense)	(4,594)	(2,806)	(10,629)	29,433
Income (loss) before income taxes	(33,184)	49,307	32,273	160,351
Provision (benefit) for income taxes	(8,942)	10,141	12,949	34,611
Net income (loss)	$ (24,242)	$ 39,166	$ 19,324	$ 125,740
Earnings (loss) per share – basic (in dollars per share)	$ (0.21)	$ 0.34	$ 0.17	$ 1.09
Earnings (loss) per share – diluted (in dollars per share)	$ (0.21)	$ 0.33	$ 0.16	$ 1.08

Condensed Consolidated and Com5

Condensed Consolidated and Combined Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ (24,242)	$ 39,166	$ 19,324	$ 125,740
Other comprehensive income, before tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(23,367)	(17,071)	(62,440)	(11,996)
Pension and other postretirement benefit items:
Amortization of prior service credit, net	470	(650)	1,539	(2,104)
Amortization of actuarial loss	16,025	13,909	47,212	42,369
Remeasurement of pension liability	0	64,811	0	64,811
Remeasurement of postretirement benefits liability	0	1,983	0	1,983
Other	17,723	14,899	48,246	10,503
Pension and other postretirement benefit items	34,218	94,952	96,997	117,562
Other comprehensive income, before tax	10,851	77,881	34,557	105,566
Income tax effect related to components of other comprehensive income	(8,965)	(34,072)	(25,937)	(42,825)
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	1,886	43,809	8,620	62,741
Comprehensive income (loss)	$ (22,356)	$ 82,975	$ 27,944	$ 188,481

Condensed Consolidated and Com6

Condensed Consolidated and Combined Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$ 19,324	$ 125,740
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flow from operating activities:
Gain on acquisition	0	(21,799)
Depreciation and amortization	91,850	83,780
Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges	33,160	7,989
Pension and other postretirement expenses, net of contributions	(79,729)	(129,501)
Equity income in unconsolidated investees, net	(844)	(11,411)
Stock-based compensation	14,986	12,359
Change in accounts receivable	67,605	55,326
Change in accounts payable and accrued liabilities	(32,933)	14,420
Change in other assets and liabilities, net	(8,203)	15,911
Net cash flow from operating activities	105,216	152,814
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures	(45,001)	(30,945)
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(462,379)	(28,668)
Payments for investments	(12,402)	(2,750)
Proceeds from investments	151	12,402
Proceeds from sale of certain assets	16,998	16,324
Changes in other investing activities	16	0
Net cash flow used for investing activities	(502,617)	(33,637)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Dividends paid	(74,437)	0
Proceeds from issuance of common stock upon settlement of stock awards	9,714	2,727
Proceeds from borrowings under revolving credit agreement	455,000	0
Repayments of borrowings under revolving credit agreement	(70,000)	0
Changes in other financing activities	(124)	(1,218)
Transactions with former parent, net	0	(49,701)
Net cash flow from (used for) financing activities	320,153	(48,192)
Effect of currency exchange rate change on cash	(2,647)	(160)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(79,895)	70,825
Balance of cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	196,696	71,947
Balance of cash and cash equivalents at end of period	116,801	142,772
Supplemental cash flow information:
Cash paid for taxes, net of refunds	25,236	6,545
Cash paid for interest	7,821	567
Non-cash investing and financing activities:
Accrued capital expenditures	1,643	0
Accrued dividends	$ 0	$ 18,460

Basis of presentation and summa

Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies	NOTE 1 — Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies Description of business: Gannett Co., Inc. ("Gannett," "our," "us" and "we") is a leading international, multi-platform news and information company delivering high-quality, trusted content where and when consumers want to engage with it on virtually any device or platform. In addition, we provide a wide variety of online marketing, digital advertising, software-as-a-service, and web presence solutions to small and medium sized businesses through our wholly-owned subsidiary ReachLocal. As of September 25, 2016 , our operations are comprised of 129 daily publications and related digital platforms in the U.S. and the U.K., and more than 600 and 150 non-daily local publications in the U.S. and U.K., respectively. Our 110 U.S. daily publications include USA TODAY. Separation from former parent: On June 29, 2015 , the separation of Gannett from our former parent, TEGNA Inc., was completed pursuant to a Separation and Distribution Agreement (the "Separation Agreement") dated June 26, 2015 . On June 29, 2015 , our former parent completed the pro rata distribution of 98.5% of the outstanding shares of Gannett common stock to its stockholders (also referred to herein as the "spin-off" or "separation"), and Gannett common stock began trading "regular way" on the New York Stock Exchange. Each holder of our former parent's common stock received one share of Gannett common stock for every two shares of our former parent's common stock held on June 22, 2015 , the record date for the distribution. Immediately following the distribution, our former parent owned 1.5% of Gannett's outstanding common stock, and our former parent will continue to own our shares for a period of time not to exceed five years after the distribution. Our former parent structured the distribution to be tax free to its U.S. stockholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Basis of presentation: Our accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated and combined financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("U.S. GAAP") and the instructions for Form 10-Q. Therefore, the accompanying statements do not include all information and footnotes which are normally included in the Form 10-K and annual report to shareholders. These unaudited condensed consolidated and combined financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated and combined financial statements and notes thereto included in our annual report on Form 10-K for fiscal year 2015 ("2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K"). In our opinion, the financial statements reflect all adjustments of a normal recurring nature necessary for a fair presentation of results for the interim periods presented. Results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year. All intercompany accounts have been eliminated in consolidation. Prior to the spin-off, we did not prepare separate financial statements. The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated and combined financial statements for periods prior to the spin-off were derived from the condensed and consolidated financial statements and accounting records of our former parent and present our combined financial position, results of operations, and cash flows as of and for the periods presented as if we were a separate entity. Through the date of the spin-off and in preparing these unaudited condensed consolidated and combined financial statements, management has made certain assumptions or implemented methodologies to allocate various expenses from our former parent to us and from us back to our former parent in the form of cost recoveries. These allocations represent services provided between the two entities and are more fully detailed in Note 14 — Relationship with our former parent . We believe the assumptions and methodologies used in these allocations are reasonable; however, such allocated costs, net of cost recoveries, may not be indicative of the actual level of expense that would have been incurred had we been operating on a stand-alone basis, and, accordingly, may not necessarily reflect our combined financial position, results of operations, and cash flows had we operated as a stand-alone entity during the periods presented. For periods subsequent to the spin-off, our financial statements are presented on a consolidated basis as we became a separate consolidated entity. As of September 25, 2016 , we identified an error relating to certain participant data that had resulted in an overstatement of the postretirement benefits liabilities transferred from our former parent at separation. Based on our assessments of qualitative and quantitative factors, the error and the related impacts were not considered material to the consolidated financial statements for the quarter ended September 25, 2016 or the prior periods. The error was corrected by decreasing postretirement medical and life insurance liabilities by $2.8 million and pension liabilities by $23.1 million , increasing former parent investment, net, which is now reflected in additional paid-in capital, by $17.5 million , increasing accumulated other comprehensive loss, net by $1.6 million , and decreasing deferred tax assets by $10.0 million . There are expected to be additional adjustments to correct certain participant data which are not expected to be material to the financial statements. Use of estimates: The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates, judgments, and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the unaudited condensed consolidated and combined financial statements and footnotes thereto. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates inherent in the preparation of such financial statements include accounting for asset impairments, reserves established for doubtful accounts, equity-based compensation, depreciation and amortization, business combinations, income taxes, litigation matters, and contingencies. Segment presentation : In the third quarter of 2016, we determined, based on the way we manage our businesses, the nature of those businesses, and the nature of our recent acquisitions, to add an additional operating segment specific to ReachLocal. Our operating segments and goodwill reporting units are now Domestic Publishing, the U.K. group and ReachLocal. Furthermore, pursuant to the criteria under the Financial Accounting Standards Board's ("FASB") guidance in Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 280, Segment Reporting , we aggregate our Domestic Publishing segment and the U.K. group into a reportable segment known as Publishing. Our reportable segments beginning in the third quarter of 2016 are Publishing and ReachLocal. In addition to these reportable segments, we have a Corporate and Other category that includes activities that are not directly attributable to or allocable to a specific segment. For further details, see Note 13 — Segment reporting . Business combinations: We allocate the fair value of purchase consideration to the tangible assets acquired, liabilities assumed, and intangible assets acquired based on their estimated fair values. The excess of the fair value of purchase consideration over the value of these identifiable assets and liabilities is recorded as goodwill. When determining the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, management makes significant estimates and assumptions, especially with respect to intangible assets. Critical estimates in valuing certain identifiable assets include, but are not limited to, expected long-term revenues, future expected operating expenses, cost of capital, and appropriate discount rates. Management's estimates of fair value are based upon assumptions believed to be reasonable but which are inherently uncertain and unpredictable. As a result, actual results may differ from estimates. Revenue recognition: Our revenues include amounts charged to customers for space purchased in our newspapers, digital ads placed on our digital platforms, advertising and marketing service fees, advertising products, commercial printing, and the provision and sale of online marketing products through our ReachLocal subsidiary. Revenues also include circulation revenues for newspapers (both print and digital) purchased by readers or distributors, reduced by the amount of any discounts taken. Circulation revenues, including online subscriptions, are recognized when purchased newspapers are distributed or made available on our digital platforms. Advertising revenues are recognized net of agency commissions in the period when advertising is printed or placed on digital platforms. Marketing services revenues are generally recognized when advertisements or services are delivered. Commercial printing revenues are recognized when the product is delivered to the customer. Amounts received from customers in advance of revenue recognition are deferred as liabilities. For our online marketing products provided by our ReachLocal subsidiary, we typically enter into multi-month agreements for the delivery of our products. Under our agreements, our clients typically pay, in advance, a fixed fee on a monthly basis, which includes all charges for the included technology and any media services, management, third-party content and other costs and fees. We record these prepayments as deferred revenue and only record revenue for income statement purposes as we purchase media and perform other services. Revenue from the licensing of our products is recognized on a straight line basis over the applicable license or service period. We have various advertising agreements which have both print and digital deliverables. Revenue from sales agreements containing multiple deliverable elements is allocated to each element based on the relative best estimate of selling price. Elements are treated as separate units of accounting if there is standalone value upon delivery. Software development costs: Our subsidiary ReachLocal incurs certain costs to develop software for internal use. These costs are capitalized when it is determined the development efforts will result in new or additional functionality or new products. Costs incurred prior to meeting these criteria and costs associated with ongoing maintenance are expensed as incurred and included in costs of sales and operating expenses, in addition to amortization of capitalized software development costs, in the accompanying condensed consolidated and combined statements of income. We monitor our existing capitalized software costs and reduce their carrying value as a result of releases rendering previous features or functions obsolete. Software development costs are evaluated for impairment in accordance with our policy for finite-lived intangible assets and other long-lived assets. Costs capitalized as internal use software are amortized on a straight-line basis over an estimated useful life of three years. Recent accounting standards issued but not yet adopted: In July 2015, the FASB delayed the effective date for ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers ("Topic 606"). The core principle contemplated by ASU 2014-09 is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount reflecting the consideration the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. New disclosures about the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers are also required. We are currently evaluating the provisions of Topic 606 and assessing the impact on our consolidated financial results. In April 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-10 to clarify and amend the identification of performance obligations and licensing implementation guidance contained within Topic 606. Further, the FASB issued ASU 2016-12 in May 2016 to clarify certain core principles of Topic 606 related to assessing the collectability criterion, presenting taxes collected from customers, noncash considerations, contract modifications, and completed contracts at transition. We are required to adopt the standard and its associated amendments in the first quarter of 2018 and retroactively apply it to our 2016 and 2017 financial results at the time of adoption. Under the new rules, we are permitted to adopt the new standard and amendments in 2017. We can also choose to apply the standard and amendments using either the full retrospective approach or a modified retrospective approach which recognizes a cumulative catch up adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings. We have not yet selected a transition method, and we are currently evaluating the effect the updated guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-11, Inventory ("Topic 330"), which requires entities using the first-in, first-out inventory costing method to subsequently value inventory at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Topic 330 defines net realizable value as the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. Topic 330 is effective for fiscal years and interim periods within those years beginning after December 15, 2016, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the provisions of Topic 330 and assessing the impact on our consolidated financial results. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases ("Topic 842"), which modifies lease accounting for both lessees and lessors to increase transparency and comparability by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities by lessees for those leases classified as operating leases under previous accounting standards and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the provisions of Topic 842 and assessing the impact on our consolidated financial results. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Stock Compensation, which simplifies certain aspects of the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including income taxes, classification of awards, and classification in the statement of cash flows. This guidance is effective for fiscal years and interim periods within those years beginning after December 15, 2016, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the provisions of ASU 2016-09 and assessing the impact on our consolidated financial results. In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows ("Topic 230"), which addresses certain cash flow issues such as debt prepayment, debt extinguishment costs, contingent consideration payments made after a business combination, and distributions received from equity method investees. This guidance is effective for fiscal years and interim periods within those years beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the provisions of ASU 2016-15 and assessing the impact on our consolidated financial results.

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisitions	NOTE 2 — Acquisitions 2016 Acquisitions ReachLocal: On August 9, 2016 , we completed the acquisition of 100% of the outstanding common stock of ReachLocal, Inc. ("ReachLocal") for approximately $162.5 million in cash, net of cash acquired. We financed the transaction by borrowing $175.0 million under our credit facility as well as with available cash, and we incurred acquisition-related expenses of $12.4 million for the nine months ended September 25, 2016 . Such costs were reflected in selling, general and administrative expenses in the condensed consolidated and combined statements of income. ReachLocal offers online marketing, digital advertising, software-as-a-service, and web presence products and solutions to small and medium sized businesses. It delivers its suite of products and solutions to local businesses through a combination of its proprietary technology platform, its direct inside and outside sales force, and select third-party agencies and resellers. The purchase price, based on management's preliminary estimates, was allocated to the tangible assets and identified intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values. The allocation of the purchase price is preliminary pending the finalization of the fair value of the acquired net assets and liabilities assumed as well as the acquired deferred income tax assets and liabilities and assumed income and non-income based tax liabilities. As of the acquisition date, the purchase price assigned to the acquired assets and assumed liabilities is summarized as follows: In thousands Cash acquired $ 13,195 Other current assets 15,058 Property, plant and equipment 13,486 Intangible assets 88,500 Goodwill 114,470 Other noncurrent assets 9,641 Total assets acquired 254,350 Current liabilities 49,800 Noncurrent liabilities 28,807 Total liabilities assumed 78,607 Net assets acquired $ 175,743 Acquired property, plant, and equipment will be depreciated on a straight-line basis over the assets' respective estimated remaining useful lives. Goodwill is calculated as the excess of the consideration transferred over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired and represents the future economic benefits expected to arise from other intangible assets acquired that do not qualify for separate recognition, including assembled workforce and non-contractual relationships as well as expected future synergies. Goodwill associated with the acquisition of ReachLocal is allocated entirely to the ReachLocal segment. We expect the purchase price allocated to goodwill and trade names will not be deductible for tax purposes. Since the acquisition date, revenues for ReachLocal were $35.0 million and net loss before taxes was $11.1 million . Assets of North Jersey Media Group: On July 6, 2016 , we completed the acquisition of certain assets of North Jersey Media Group, Inc. ("NJMG") for approximately $39.3 million . NJMG is a media company with print and digital publishing operations serving primarily the northern New Jersey market. Its brands include such established names as The Record (Bergen County) and The Herald . We financed the transaction with available cash on hand. The purchase price, based on management's preliminary estimates, was allocated to the tangible assets and identified intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values. The allocation of the purchase price is preliminary pending the finalization of the fair value of the acquired net assets and liabilities assumed. As of the acquisition date, the purchase price assigned to the acquired assets and assumed liabilities were as follows: property, plant, and equipment of $26.1 million , goodwill of $8.3 million , intangible assets of $7.2 million , noncurrent liabilities of $0.3 million , and net working capital loss of $3.4 million . Any goodwill recognized related to the acquisition of NJMG is allocated to the Publishing segment. Journal Media Group: On April 8, 2016 , we completed the acquisition of 100% of the outstanding common stock of Journal Media Group, Inc. ("JMG") for approximately $260.6 million in cash, net of cash acquired. Further, approximately $2 million of the purchase price paid was treated as post-acquisition expense for accounting purposes. We financed the transaction by borrowing $250 million under our credit facility as well as with available cash, and we incurred acquisition-related costs of $13.2 million , of which $10.7 million was incurred for the nine months ended September 25, 2016 . Such costs were reflected in selling, general and administrative expenses in the condensed consolidated and combined statements of income. JMG is a media company with print and digital publishing operations serving 15 U.S. markets in 9 states, including the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, the Knoxville News Sentinel, and The Commercial Appeal in Memphis . The acquisition expanded our print and digital publishing operations domestically. The purchase price, based on management's preliminary estimates, was allocated to the tangible assets and identified intangible assets acquired based on their estimated fair values. The allocation of the purchase price is preliminary pending the finalization of the fair value of the acquired net assets and liabilities assumed as well as the acquired deferred income tax assets and liabilities and assumed income and non-income based tax liabilities. As of the acquisition date, the purchase price assigned to the acquired assets and assumed liabilities is summarized as follows: In thousands Cash acquired $ 36,825 Other current assets 54,571 Property, plant and equipment 265,641 Intangible assets 42,880 Goodwill 25,259 Other noncurrent assets 3,825 Total assets acquired 429,001 Current liabilities 76,709 Noncurrent liabilities 57,246 Total liabilities assumed 133,955 Net assets acquired $ 295,046 Acquired property, plant, and equipment will be depreciated on a straight-line basis over the assets' respective estimated remaining useful lives. Goodwill is calculated as the excess of the consideration transferred over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired and represents the future economic benefits expected to arise from other intangible assets acquired that do not qualify for separate recognition, including assembled workforce and non-contractual relationships as well as expected future synergies. Any goodwill recognized related to the acquisition of JMG is allocated to the Publishing segment. We expect the purchase price allocated to goodwill and mastheads will not be deductible for tax purposes. Since the acquisition date, revenues for JMG were $191.1 million and net loss before taxes was $6.5 million . Pro forma information: The following table sets forth unaudited pro forma results of operations assuming the ReachLocal, NJMG and JMG acquisitions, along with transactions necessary to finance the acquisitions, occurred at the beginning of 2015: Unaudited Nine months ended In thousands Sept. 25, 2016 Sept. 27, 2015 Total revenues $ 2,542,117 $ 2,823,440 Net income $ 12,346 $ 44,090 Earnings per share - diluted $ 0.10 $ 0.38 This pro forma financial information is based on historical results of operations, adjusted for the allocation of the purchase price and other acquisition accounting adjustments, and is not necessarily indicative of what our results would have been had we operated the businesses since the beginning of the periods presented. The pro forma adjustments reflect depreciation expense and amortization of intangibles related to the fair value adjustments of the assets acquired, additional interest expense related to the financing of the transactions, the elimination of acquisition-related costs, and the related tax effects of the adjustments. 2015 Acquisitions Texas-New Mexico Partnership: On June 1, 2015 , we completed the acquisition of the remaining 59.4% interest in the Texas-New Mexico Partnership ("TNP") that we did not own from Digital First Media. We completed the acquisition through the assignment of our 19.5% interest in the California Newspapers Partnership ("CNP"), valued at $34.4 million , additional cash consideration, net of cash acquired, of $5.2 million , and $1.9 million in deferred consideration. As a result, we own 100% of TNP and no longer have any ownership interest or continuing involvement in CNP. Through the transaction, we acquired news organizations in Texas ( El Paso Times ), New Mexico ( Alamogordo Daily News ; Carlsbad Current-Argus ; The Daily Times in Farmington; Deming Headlight ; Las Cruces Sun-News ; and Silver City Sun-News ) and Pennsylvania ( Chambersburg Public Opinion; Hanover Evening Sun; Lebanon Daily News; and The York Daily Record ). The purchase price was allocated to the tangible assets and identified intangible assets acquired based on their estimated fair values. As of the acquisition date, the purchase price assigned to the acquired assets and assumed liabilities is summarized as follows: In thousands Current assets $ 12,310 Property, plant and equipment 20,672 Intangible assets 28,440 Goodwill 30,703 Total assets acquired 92,125 Current liabilities 10,860 Noncurrent liabilities 14,211 Total liabilities assumed 25,071 Net assets acquired $ 67,054 On the acquisition date, the fair value of our 40.6% interest in TNP was $26.6 million , and the fair value of our 19.5% interest in CNP was $34.4 million . The pre-acquisition carrying value of TNP and CNP was $39.2 million . We recognized a $21.8 million pre-tax non-cash gain on the transaction in the second quarter of 2015. Acquired property, plant, and equipment will be depreciated on a straight-line basis over the assets' respective estimated remaining useful lives. Goodwill is calculated as the excess of the consideration transferred over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired and represents the future economic benefits expected to arise from other intangible assets acquired that do not qualify for separate recognition, including assembled workforce and non-contractual relationships as well as expected future synergies. We expect the purchase price allocated to goodwill and mastheads will be deductible for tax purposes. Romanes Media Group: On May 26, 2015 , our U.K. subsidiary, Newsquest Media Group Ltd. ("Newsquest"), paid $23.4 million , net of cash acquired, to purchase 100% of the shares of Romanes Media Group ("RMG"). RMG publishes local newspapers in Scotland, Berkshire, and Northern Ireland, and its portfolio comprises one daily newspaper, 28 weekly newspapers, and their associated websites.

Restructuring activities

Restructuring activities	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring activities	NOTE 3 — Restructuring activities Severance-related expenses: We have initiated various cost reducing actions that are severance-related. In the second quarter of 2015, we initiated an Early Retirement Opportunity Program ("EROP") for our USA TODAY employees. Since its announcement, we have recorded severance-related expenses of $7.8 million for the three and nine months ended September 27, 2015 in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 712. In August 2015, we announced an EROP for employees in certain corporate departments and publishing sites. Since its announcement, we have recorded severance-related expenses of $35.1 million in accordance with ASC Topic 712. Related to this action, there was $0.8 million of additional expense recorded net in 2016 and $10.6 million in expense recorded for the three and nine months ended September 27, 2015 . In connection with our acquisitions as discussed in Note 2 — Acquisitions , we incurred certain severance-related expenses for the three and nine months ended September 25, 2016 totaling $6.3 million and $15.4 million , respectively. We had employee termination actions associated with our facility consolidation and other cost efficiency efforts, including various one-time termination actions, terminations related to an ongoing severance plan, as well as the aforementioned acquisition-related activity. We recorded severance-related expenses of $5.1 million and $26.0 million for the three and nine months ended September 25, 2016 , respectively, and $5.9 million and $25.4 million for the three and nine months ended September 27, 2015 , respectively, related to these other actions. These charges are presented in our statements of income. We recorded $4.1 million and $22.1 million in costs of sales and operating expenses and $1.0 million and $4.7 million in selling, general, and administrative expenses during the three and nine months ended September 25, 2016 , respectively, related to our employee termination actions. We recorded $13.5 million and $35.4 million in costs of sales and operating expenses and $2.9 million and $8.4 million in selling, general, and administrative expenses during the three and nine months ended September 27, 2015 , respectively, related to such actions. A summary of our liabilities related to employee termination actions for the nine months ended September 25, 2016 is as follows: In thousands Severance Related to Acquisitions USA TODAY 2015 EROP August 2015 EROP Various One-Time Actions Ongoing Severance Plan Balance at Dec. 27, 2015 $ — $ 3,337 $ 28,393 $ 9,818 $ 4,035 Expense 15,383 — 837 10,357 254 Payments (6,832 ) (2,407 ) (27,034 ) (12,695 ) (2,504 ) Adjustments 941 (930 ) 864 (2,400 ) — Balance at Sept. 25, 2016 $ 9,492 $ — $ 3,060 $ 5,080 $ 1,785 Facility consolidation and impairment charges: We evaluated and revised the carrying values and useful lives of property, plant, and equipment at certain sites to reflect the use of those assets over a shortened period because of facility consolidation efforts. We also wrote off assets that were being disposed. Certain assets classified as held-for-sale according to ASC Topic 360 resulted in us recognizing non-cash charges in both 2016 and 2015 as we reduced the carrying values to equal the fair value less cost to dispose. The fair values were based on the estimated prices of similar assets. We recorded pre-tax charges for facility consolidations and asset impairments of $28.7 million and $1.3 million for the three months ended September 25, 2016 and September 27, 2015 , respectively, and $33.2 million and $8.0 million for the nine months ended September 25, 2016 and September 27, 2015 , respectively.

Goodwill and other intangible a

Goodwill and other intangible assets	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and other intangible assets	NOTE 4 — Goodwill and other intangible assets The following table displays information on our goodwill, indefinite-lived intangible assets and amortizable intangible assets: In thousands Sept. 25, 2016 Dec. 27, 2015 Gross Accumulated Amortization Gross Accumulated Amortization Goodwill $ 699,891 $ — $ 575,685 $ — Indefinite-lived intangibles: Mastheads 62,568 — 31,521 — Amortizable intangible assets: Developed technology 54,000 (2,350 ) — — Customer relationships 104,718 (44,200 ) 68,005 (39,813 ) Other 24,782 (12,414 ) 11,478 (11,478 ) Customer relationships include subscriber lists and advertiser relationships and are amortized on a straight-line basis over their useful lives. Developed technology includes digital marketing solutions and other technology acquired as part of the ReachLocal transaction and is amortized on a straight-line basis over its useful life. Other intangibles are primarily amortizable trade names and are amortized on a straight-line basis over their useful lives. The following table summarizes the changes in our net goodwill balance through September 25, 2016 : In thousands Publishing ReachLocal Consolidated Balance at Dec. 27, 2015: Goodwill $ 7,297,752 $ — $ 7,297,752 Accumulated impairment losses (6,722,067 ) — (6,722,067 ) Net balance at Dec. 27, 2015 575,685 — 575,685 Activity during the period: Acquisitions and adjustments (see Note 2) 34,487 114,470 148,957 Foreign currency exchange rate changes (24,751 ) — (24,751 ) Total 9,736 114,470 124,206 Balance at Sept. 25, 2016: Goodwill 7,028,359 114,470 7,142,829 Accumulated impairment losses (6,442,938 ) — (6,442,938 ) Net balance at Sept. 25, 2016 $ 585,421 $ 114,470 $ 699,891

Revolving credit facility

Revolving credit facility	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Revolving credit facility	NOTE 5 — Revolving credit facility We maintain a five -year secured revolving credit facility pursuant to which we may borrow from time to time up to an aggregate principal amount of $500.0 million ("Credit Facility"). Under the Credit Facility, we may borrow at an applicable margin above the Eurodollar base rate ("LIBOR loan") or the higher of the Prime Rate, the Federal Funds Effective Rate plus 0.50% , or the one month LIBOR rate plus 1.00% ("ABR loan"). The applicable margin is determined based on our total leverage ratio but differs between LIBOR loans and ABR loans. For LIBOR-based borrowing, the margin varies from 2.00% to 2.50% . For ABR-based borrowing, the margin varies from 1.00% to 1.50% . Up to $50.0 million of the Credit Facility is available for issuance of letters of credit. The Credit Facility matures on June 29, 2020. Customary fees are payable related to the Credit Facility, including commitment fees on the undrawn commitments of between 0.30% and 0.40% per annum, payable quarterly in arrears, based on our total leverage ratio. Borrowings under the Credit Facility are guaranteed by our wholly-owned material domestic subsidiaries. All obligations of Gannett and each subsidiary guarantor under the Credit Facility are or will be secured by first priority security interests in our equipment, inventory, accounts receivable, fixtures, general intangibles and other personal property, mortgages on certain material real property, and pledges of the capital stock of each subsidiary guarantor. Under the Credit Facility, our consolidated interest coverage ratio cannot be less than 3.00 :1.00, and our total leverage ratio cannot exceed 3.00 :1.00 as of the last day of the test period consisting of the last four fiscal quarters. We were in compliance with these financial covenants as of September 25, 2016 . The Credit Facility also contains a number of covenants that, among other things, limit or restrict our ability, subject to certain exceptions, to: (i) permit certain liens on current or future assets, (ii) enter into certain corporate transactions, (iii) incur additional indebtedness, (iv) make certain payments or declare certain dividends or distributions, (v) dispose of certain property, (vi) make certain investments, (vii) prepay or amend the terms of other indebtedness, or (viii) enter into certain transactions with our affiliates. We were in compliance with these covenants as of September 25, 2016 . On April 8, 2016, we borrowed $250 million under our Credit Facility to complete the acquisition of JMG. Furthermore, on August 9, 2016, we borrowed an additional $175 million under our Credit Facility to complete the acquisition of ReachLocal. Refer to Note 2 — Acquisitions for further details on these acquisitions. As of September 25, 2016 , we had $385.0 million in outstanding borrowings under the Credit Facility and $6.9 million of letters of credit outstanding, leaving $108.1 million of availability remaining.

Retirement plans

Retirement plans	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Pension Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Retirement plans	NOTE 6 — Retirement plans Defined benefit retirement plans: We, along with our subsidiaries, have various defined benefit retirement plans, including plans established under collective bargaining agreements. Our principal retirement plan is the Gannett Retirement Plan ("GRP"). Our retirement plans also include the Gannett 2015 Supplemental Retirement Plan ("SERP"), the Newsquest Pension Scheme in the U.K. ("Newsquest Plan"), and the Newspaper Guild of Detroit Pension Plan. We use a December 31 measurement date convention for our retirement plans. Our retirement plan costs include costs for all of our qualified plans and our allocated portions of former parent-sponsored qualified and non-qualified plans and are presented in the following table: In thousands Three months ended Nine months ended Sept. 25, 2016 Sept. 27, 2015 (a) Sept. 25, 2016 Sept. 27, 2015 (a) Service cost-benefits earned during the period $ 818 $ 995 $ 2,446 $ 3,204 Interest cost on benefit obligation 30,853 32,997 94,571 98,483 Expected return on plan assets (45,560 ) (49,742 ) (138,708 ) (147,068 ) Amortization of prior service cost 1,668 1,705 4,997 5,173 Amortization of actuarial loss 15,823 13,594 46,946 41,267 Expense (credit) for retirement plans $ 3,602 $ (451 ) $ 10,252 $ 1,059 (a) A portion of our current and former employees also participated in pension plans sponsored by our former parent. Retirement benefits obligations and assets pursuant to the former parent-sponsored retirement plans related to our current and former employees were transferred to us at the separation date and, accordingly, were allocated to us in our unaudited condensed combined financial statements for all periods prior to the spin-off. This allocation was done by determining the projected benefit obligation of participants for which the liability was transferred. Subsequent to the spin-off, no further costs were allocated to us. Beginning in 2016, in addition to any other contributions that may be required, we will make contributions of $25 million in each of the next five fiscal years through 2020 and $15 million in 2021 for the GRP. In March 2016, we made our 2016 $25 million contribution to the GRP. During the nine months ended September 25, 2016 , we contributed $ 46.7 million (£ 34.8 million ) to the Newsquest Plan. We expect to contribute approximately £ 1.9 million to the Newsquest Plan throughout the remainder of 2016 . Defined contribution plans: Our U.S. employees participate in qualified 401(k) savings plans, permitting eligible employees to make voluntary contributions on a pre-tax basis subject to certain limits. Substantially all of our employees (other than those covered by certain collective bargaining agreements) scheduled to work at least 1,000 hours during each year of employment are eligible to participate. The plans allow participants to invest their savings in various investments. For most participants, the matching formula is 100% of the first 5% of employee contributions, and the employer match obligation is settled by buying our stock in the open market and depositing it in the participants' accounts. In connection with our acquisition of JMG as discussed in Note 2 — Acquisitions , we assumed JMG's 401(k) savings plan, which continues to cover former JMG employees. For most participants in this plan, the matching formula is 50% of the first 7% of employee contributions, and the employer match obligation is settled in cash. Additionally, effective August 9, 2016, we assumed ReachLocal's 401(k) savings plan, which continues to cover their former full-time U.S. employees and which has no employer match obligation. Amounts charged to expense for employer contributions to the 401(k) savings plans totaled $7.5 million and $6.5 million in the three months ended September 25, 2016 and September 27, 2015 , respectively. Amounts charged to expense for employer contributions to the 401(k) savings plans totaled $21.7 million and $21.2 million in the nine months ended September 25, 2016 and September 27, 2015 , respectively. These amounts are recorded in Cost of sales and operating expenses and Selling, general and administrative expenses, as appropriate, in the unaudited condensed consolidated and combined statements of income.

Post-retirement benefits other

Post-retirement benefits other than pension	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Post-retirement Benefits Other Than Pension [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Post-retirement benefits other than pension	NOTE 7 — Postretirement benefits other than pension We provide health care and life insurance benefits to certain retired employees who meet age and service requirements. Most of our retirees contribute to the cost of these benefits, and retiree contributions are increased as actual benefit costs increase. The cost of providing retiree health care and life insurance benefits is actuarially determined. Our policy is to fund benefits as claims and premiums are paid. Our postretirement benefit costs and our allocated portions of former parent-sponsored postretirement plans for health care and life insurance are presented in the following table: In thousands Three months ended Nine months ended Sept. 25, 2016 Sept. 27, 2015 Sept. 25, 2016 Sept. 27, 2015 Service cost-benefits earned during the period $ 49 $ 75 $ 146 $ 272 Interest cost on net benefit obligation 964 989 2,838 2,961 Amortization of prior service credit (1,198 ) (2,355 ) (3,458 ) (7,277 ) Amortization of actuarial loss 202 315 266 1,102 Net periodic postretirement benefit expense (credit) $ 17 $ (976 ) $ (208 ) $ (2,942 ) Certain of our employees also participated in postretirement benefit plans sponsored by our former parent. Health care and life insurance benefit obligations pursuant to the former parent-sponsored postretirement plans and related to our current and former employees were transferred to us at the separation date and, accordingly, have been allocated to us in our unaudited condensed consolidated and combined financial statements for periods prior to the separation date by determining the projected benefit obligation of participants for which the liability was transferred. Subsequent to the separation, no further costs were allocated to us.

Income taxes

Income taxes	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income taxes	NOTE 8 — Income taxes Our reported effective income tax rate on pre-tax loss was 26.9% for the three months ended September 25, 2016 , compared to 20.6% on pre-tax income for the three months ended September 27, 2015 . Our reported effective income tax rate on pre-tax income was 40.2% for the nine months ended September 25, 2016 , compared to 21.6% for the nine months ended September 27, 2015 . The tax rate for the three and nine months ended September 25, 2016 was higher than the comparable rate in 2015 due to a one-time tax benefit in 2015 from a change in accounting method to amortize previously non-deductible intangible assets, interest expense disallowance in the U.K. in 2016 , U.K. tax rate changes and non-deductible transaction costs in 2016 . The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate was approximately $ 10.4 million as of September 25, 2016 and $ 11.3 million as of December 27, 2015 . The amount of accrued interest and penalties payable related to unrecognized tax benefits was $ 3.9 million as of September 25, 2016 and $ 3.4 million as of December 27, 2015 . It is reasonably possible that the amount of unrecognized benefits with respect to certain of our unrecognized tax positions will increase or decrease within the next 12 months. These changes may be the result of settlement of ongoing audits, lapses of statutes of limitations, or other regulatory developments. At this time, we estimate the amount of gross unrecognized tax positions may be reduced by up to approximately $ 1.8 million within the next 12 months primarily due to lapses of statutes of limitations and settlements of ongoing audits in various jurisdictions. In connection with the spin-off, we entered into a tax matters agreement with our former parent which states each company's rights and responsibilities with respect to payment of taxes, tax return filings, and control of tax examinations. We are generally responsible for taxes allocable to periods (or portions of periods) beginning after the spin-off. Although any changes with regards to additional income tax liabilities related to periods prior to the spin-off may impact our effective tax rate in the future, we may be entitled to seek indemnification for these items from our former parent under the tax matters agreement.

Supplemental equity information

Supplemental equity information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Equity [Abstract]
Supplemental equity information	NOTE 9 — Supplemental equity information The following table summarizes equity account activity for the nine months ended September 25, 2016 and September 27, 2015 : In thousands 2016 2015 Balance at beginning of period $ 1,058,576 $ 937,472 Comprehensive income: Net income 19,324 125,740 Other comprehensive income (see Note 1) 8,620 62,741 Total comprehensive income 27,944 188,481 Dividends declared (55,936 ) (18,462 ) Stock-based compensation 14,986 12,359 Other activity (see Note 1) 19,544 3,409 Transactions with our former parent, net — (43,145 ) Balance at end of period $ 1,065,114 $ 1,080,114 The following table summarizes the components of, and the changes in, Accumulated other comprehensive loss (net of tax): In thousands Retirement Plans Foreign Currency Translation Total Balance at Dec. 27, 2015 $ (1,058,234 ) $ 384,810 $ (673,424 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 39,751 (62,440 ) (22,689 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 31,309 — 31,309 Other comprehensive income (loss) 71,060 (62,440 ) 8,620 Balance at Sept. 25, 2016 $ (987,174 ) $ 322,370 $ (664,804 ) Balance at Dec. 28, 2014 $ (1,082,312 ) $ 404,200 $ (678,112 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 49,147 (11,996 ) 37,151 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 25,590 — 25,590 Other comprehensive income (loss) 74,737 (11,996 ) 62,741 Transactions with former parent 7,237 — 7,237 Balance at Sept. 27, 2015 $ (1,000,338 ) $ 392,204 $ (608,134 ) Accumulated other comprehensive loss components are included in computing net periodic postretirement costs as outlined in Note 6 — Retirement plans and Note 7 — Postretirement benefits other than pension . Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive loss related to these postretirement plans include the following: In thousands Three months ended Nine months ended Sept. 25, 2016 Sept. 27, 2015 Sept. 25, 2016 Sept. 27, 2015 Amortization of prior service credit, net $ 470 $ (650 ) $ 1,539 $ (2,104 ) Amortization of actuarial loss 16,025 13,909 47,212 42,369 Total reclassifications, before tax 16,495 13,259 48,751 40,265 Income tax effect (5,936 ) (5,043 ) (17,442 ) (14,675 ) Total reclassifications, net of tax $ 10,559 $ 8,216 $ 31,309 $ 25,590

Fair value measurement

Fair value measurement	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value measurement	NOTE 10 — Fair value measurement In the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated and combined financial statements, we measure and record certain assets and liabilities at fair value. ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement, establishes a hierarchy for those instruments measured at fair value that distinguishes between market data (observable inputs) and our own assumptions (unobservable inputs). The hierarchy consists of three levels: Level 1 - Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities; Level 2 - Inputs other than Level 1 inputs that are either directly or indirectly observable; and Level 3 - Unobservable inputs developed using our own estimates and assumptions, which reflect those a market participant would use. As of September 25, 2016 and December 27, 2015 , assets and liabilities held at fair value measured on a recurring basis primarily consist of pension plan assets and our revolving credit facility. The carrying value of our revolving credit facility approximates the fair value and is classified as Level 3. We also have certain assets requiring fair value measurement on a non-recurring basis. Our assets measured on a nonrecurring basis are assets held for sale, which are classified as Level 3 assets and evaluated using executed purchase agreements or third party valuation experts when certain circumstances arise. Assets held for sale total $ 2.0 million as of September 25, 2016 and $12.3 million as of December 27, 2015 .

Commitments, contingencies and

Commitments, contingencies and other matters	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments, contingencies and other matters	NOTE 11 — Commitments, contingencies and other matters Telephone Consumer Protection Act ("TCPA") litigation: On January 2, 2014, a class action lawsuit was filed against Gannett in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey (Casagrand et al v. Gannett Co., Inc., et al) alleging various violations of the TCPA arising from allegedly improper telemarketing calls made to consumers by one of our vendors. The plaintiffs sought to certify a class that would include all telemarketing calls made by the vendor or us. The TCPA provides for statutory damages of $500 per violation ( $1,500 for willful violations). In April 2016, we agreed to settle all of the claims raised. The settlements are reflected, net of insurance recoveries, in our financial statements as of September 25, 2016 and were not material to our results of operations, financial position, or cash flows. Environmental contingency: In March 2011, the Advertiser Company, a subsidiary that publishes the Montgomery Advertiser , was notified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") that it had been identified as a potentially responsible party ("PRP") for the investigation and remediation of groundwater contamination in downtown Montgomery, Alabama. The Advertiser is a member of the Downtown Environmental Alliance, which has agreed to jointly fund and conduct all required investigation and remediation. The U.S. EPA has approved the work plan for the investigation and remediation and has transferred responsibility for oversight of this work to the Alabama Department of Environmental Management. The investigation and remediation are underway. In the third quarter of 2015, the Advertiser and other members of the Downtown Environmental Alliance also reached a settlement with the U.S. EPA regarding the costs the U.S. EPA spent to investigate the site. The Advertiser's final costs cannot be determined until the cleanup work is completed and contributions from other PRPs are finalized. Other litigation: We are defendants in judicial and administrative proceedings involving matters incidental to our business. While the ultimate results of these proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty, we expect the ultimate resolution of all pending or threatened claims and litigation will not have a material effect on our consolidated results of operations, financial position, or cash flows.

Earnings (loss) per share

Earnings (loss) per share	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings (loss) per share	NOTE 12 — Earnings (loss) per share Basic earnings per share is calculated as net income divided by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding. Diluted earnings per share is similarly calculated except the calculation includes the dilutive effect of the assumed issuance of shares under equity-based compensation plans except where the inclusion of such shares would have an anti-dilutive impact. On June 29, 2015, our former parent distributed 98.5% of our total shares outstanding and retained the remaining 1.5% . The total number of shares outstanding at that date, which was approximately 115 million, was used for the calculation of both basic and diluted earnings per share for the nine months ended September 27, 2015 . Our Board of Directors announced in July 2015 a share repurchase program authorizing us to repurchase shares with an aggregate value of up to $150 million over a three -year period. Shares may be repurchased at management's discretion, either in the open market or in privately negotiated block transactions. Management's decision to repurchase shares will depend on a number of factors, including share price and other corporate liquidity requirements. As of September 25, 2016 , no shares have been repurchased under this program. For the three and nine months ended September 25, 2016 and September 27, 2015 , basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share were as follows: In thousands, except per share data Three months ended Nine months ended Sept. 25, 2016 Sept. 27, 2015 Sept. 25, 2016 Sept. 27, 2015 Net income (loss) $ (24,242 ) $ 39,166 $ 19,324 $ 125,740 Weighted average number of shares outstanding - basic 116,556 115,186 116,461 115,035 Effect of dilutive securities Restricted stock units — 1,312 1,321 437 Performance share units — 1,117 761 373 Stock options — 553 243 184 Weighted average number of shares outstanding - diluted 116,556 118,168 118,786 116,029 Earnings (loss) per share - basic $ (0.21 ) $ 0.34 $ 0.17 $ 1.09 Earnings (loss) per share - diluted $ (0.21 ) $ 0.33 $ 0.16 $ 1.08 The impact of anti-dilutive equity awards excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share for the three months ended September 25, 2016 was $0.01 . The impact of anti-dilutive equity awards excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share for the nine months ended September 25, 2016 was not material. On October 12, 2016, we declared a dividend of $0.16 per share of common stock, payable on December 19, 2016, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on December 5, 2016.

Segment reporting

Segment reporting	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment reporting	Segment reporting We define our reportable segments based on the way the chief operating decision maker ("CODM"), currently the Chief Executive Officer, manages the operations for purposes of allocating resources and assessing performance. As discussed in Note 1 — Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies , we reorganized our reportable segments in the third quarter of 2016 as a result of the ReachLocal acquisition to include the following: • Publishing, which consists of our portfolio of regional, national, and international newspaper publishers. The results of this segment include retail, classified, and national advertising revenues, circulation revenues from the distribution of our publications on our digital platforms, home delivery of our publications, and single copy sales, and other revenues from commercial printing and distribution arrangements. • ReachLocal, which consists exclusively of our ReachLocal digital marketing solutions subsidiary. The results of this segment include advertising revenues from our search and display services as well as and other revenues related to web presence and software solutions provided by ReachLocal. In addition to the above operating segments, we have a corporate category that includes activities not directly attributable to a specific segment. This category primarily consists of broad corporate functions and includes legal, human resources, accounting, analytics, finance, and marketing as well as activities and costs not directly attributable to a particular segment such as tax settlements and other general business costs. The CODM uses Adjusted EBITDA to evaluate the performance of the segments and allocate resources. Adjusted EBITDA is a financial performance measure defined as net income (loss) before (1) income taxes, (2) interest expense, (3) equity income, (4) other non-operating items, (5) severance-related charges (including early retirement programs), (6) facility consolidation costs, (7) asset impairment charges, (8) depreciation, and (9) amortization. Management considers Adjusted EBITDA to be the appropriate metric to evaluate and compare the ongoing operating performance of our segments on a consistent basis across reporting periods as it eliminates the effect of items which we do not believe are indicative of each segment's core operating performance. Adjusted EBITDA is considered to be a non-GAAP measure and may be different than similarly-titled non-GAAP financial measures used by other companies. The segment information for the three months ended September 25, 2016 and September 27, 2015 was as follows: In thousands Publishing ReachLocal Corporate and Other Consolidated 2016 Advertising $ 397,214 $ 31,839 $ — $ 429,053 Circulation 285,583 — — 285,583 Other 53,773 3,138 774 57,685 Total revenues $ 736,570 $ 34,977 $ 774 $ 772,321 Adjusted EBITDA $ 87,490 $ (6,744 ) $ (25,469 ) $ 55,277 2015 Advertising $ 384,149 $ — $ — $ 384,149 Circulation 265,227 — — 265,227 Other 51,822 — 38 51,860 Total revenues $ 701,198 $ — $ 38 $ 701,236 Adjusted EBITDA $ 124,806 $ — $ (27,796 ) $ 97,010 The segment information for the nine months ended September 25, 2016 and September 27, 2015 was as follows: In thousands Publishing ReachLocal Corporate and Other Consolidated 2016 Advertising $ 1,158,269 $ 31,839 $ — $ 1,190,108 Circulation 835,872 — — 835,872 Other 148,480 3,138 2,882 154,500 Total revenues $ 2,142,621 $ 34,977 $ 2,882 $ 2,180,480 Adjusted EBITDA $ 301,229 $ (6,744 ) $ (71,887 ) $ 222,598 2015 Advertising $ 1,191,902 $ — $ — $ 1,191,902 Circulation 802,389 — — 802,389 Other 151,339 — 38 151,377 Total revenues $ 2,145,630 $ — $ 38 $ 2,145,668 Adjusted EBITDA $ 312,339 $ — $ (47,171 ) $ 265,168 The following table present our reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net income: In thousands Three months ended Nine months ended Sept. 25, 2016 Sept. 27, 2015 Sept. 25, 2016 Sept. 27, 2015 Net income (loss) (GAAP basis) $ (24,242 ) $ 39,166 $ 19,324 $ 125,740 Provision (benefit) for income taxes (8,942 ) 10,141 12,949 34,611 Equity (income) loss in unconsolidated investees, net 766 (609 ) (844 ) (11,411 ) Interest expense 3,652 1,582 8,509 1,760 Other non-operating items, net 176 1,833 2,964 (19,782 ) Operating income (loss) (GAAP basis) (28,590 ) 52,113 42,902 130,918 Early retirement program 2 10,572 837 18,373 Severance-related charges 5,135 5,872 25,994 25,386 Acquisition-related expenses 14,416 — 29,055 — Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges 28,673 66 31,960 6,711 Depreciation 30,638 25,291 83,889 73,677 Amortization 5,003 3,096 7,961 10,103 Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP basis) $ 55,277 $ 97,010 $ 222,598 $ 265,168 Asset information by segment is not a key measure of performance used by the CODM. Accordingly, we have not disclosed asset information by segment. Additionally, equity income in unconsolidated investees, net, income from cost method investments, interest expense, other non-operating items, net, and provision for income taxes, as reported in the condensed consolidated financial statements, are not part of operating income and are primarily recorded at the corporate level.

Relationship with our former pa

Relationship with our former parent	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Transactions with Former Parent [Abstract]
Relationship with our former parent	NOTE 14 — Relationship with our former parent Subsequent to the spin-off Transition services agreement: In connection with the spin-off, we entered into a transition services agreement with our former parent, pursuant to which we and our former parent will provide to each other certain specified services on a transitional basis, including various information technology, financial, and administrative services. The charges for the transition services generally are expected to allow the providing entity to fully recover all out-of-pocket costs and expenses it actually incurs in connection with providing the service plus, in some cases, the allocated indirect costs of providing the services, generally without profit. The transition services agreement will terminate on the expiration of the term of the last service provided under it but not later than 24 months following the distribution date. Subsequent to separation, we provided certain IT, payroll, and other services to our former parent in the amount of $1.1 million and $5.4 million for the three and nine months ended September 25, 2016 , respectively. Our former parent provided certain services to us in the amount of $1.4 million and $4.9 million for the three and nine months ended September 25, 2016 , respectively. Employee matters agreement: In connection with the spin-off, we entered into an employee matters agreement with our former parent prior to the separation to allocate liabilities and responsibilities relating to employment matters, employee compensation and benefit plans, and programs and other related matters. The employee matters agreement governs certain compensation and employee benefit obligations with respect to the current and former employees and non-employee directors of each company. Revenue and other transactions entered into in the ordinary course of business: Certain of our revenue arrangements relate to contracts entered into in the ordinary course of business with our former parent and its affiliates, principally Cars.com, CareerBuilder, and G/O Digital. Prior to the spin-off The following is a discussion of our relationship with our former parent prior to the spin-off, including the services provided by both parties and how transactions with our former parent and its affiliates through June 28, 2015 were accounted for in the unaudited condensed consolidated and combined financial statements. Intercompany transactions: All significant intercompany transactions between either (i) us and our former parent or (ii) us and our former parent's affiliates have been included within the unaudited condensed combined financial statements and are considered to be effectively settled through equity contributions or distributions at the time the transactions were recorded. Centralized cash management: Prior to the spin-off, our former parent utilized a centralized approach to cash management and the financing of its operations by providing funds to its entities as needed. These transactions were recorded in Former parent's investment, net when advanced and were reflected in the unaudited condensed combined statement of cash flows as financing activities. Accordingly, none of our former parent's cash and cash equivalents were assigned to us in the unaudited condensed combined financial statements. Cash and cash equivalents prior to the spin-off represent cash held by us. Support services provided and other amounts with our former parent and former parent's affiliates: Prior to the spin-off, we received allocated charges from our former parent and its affiliates for certain corporate support services, which are recorded within Selling, general and administrative expense in our unaudited condensed combined statement of income, net of cost recoveries reflecting services provided by us and allocated to our former parent. Management believes the bases used for the allocations are reasonable and reflect the portion of such costs, net of cost recoveries, attributable to our operations; however, the amounts may not be representative of the costs necessary for us to operate as a separate stand-alone company. These allocated costs, net of cost recoveries, are summarized in the following table: Nine months ended In thousands Sept. 27, 2015 (f) Corporate allocations (a) $ 25,832 Occupancy (b) 2,884 Depreciation (c) 4,067 Other support costs (d) 6,249 Cost recoveries (e) (6,055 ) Total $ 32,977 (a) The corporate allocations related to support we received from our former parent and its affiliates for certain corporate activities include: (i) corporate general and administrative expenses, (ii) marketing services, (iii) investor relations, (iv) legal, (v) human resources, (vi) internal audit, (vii) financial reporting, (viii) tax, (ix) treasury, (x) information technology, (xi) production services, (xii) travel services and (xiii) other former parent corporate and infrastructure costs. For these services, we recorded an allocation of a management fee based on actual costs incurred by our former parent and its affiliates. This was allocated to us based upon our revenue as a percentage of total former parent revenue in each fiscal period. (b) Occupancy costs relate to certain facilities owned and/or leased by our former parent and its affiliates that were utilized by our employees and principally relate to shared corporate office space. These costs were charged to us primarily based on actual square footage utilized or our revenue as a percentage of total former parent revenue in each fiscal period. Occupancy costs include facility rent, repairs and maintenance, security and other occupancy-related costs incurred to manage the properties. (c) Depreciation expense was allocated by our former parent and its affiliates for certain assets. These assets primarily relate to facilities and IT equipment that are utilized by our former parent and us to operate our businesses. These assets have not been included in our unaudited condensed combined balance sheets. Depreciation expense was allocated primarily based on our revenue as a percentage of total former parent revenue or our utilization of these assets. (d) Other support costs related to charges to us from our former parent and its affiliates include certain insurance costs and our allocated portions of share-based compensation costs and net periodic pension costs relating to the SERP for employees of our former parent. Such costs were allocated based on actual costs incurred or our revenue as a percentage of total former parent revenue. (e) Cost recoveries reflect costs recovered from our former parent and its affiliates for functions provided by us, such as functions that serve our former parent's digital and broadcasting platforms for content optimization and financial transaction processing at shared service centers. Such costs were primarily allocated based on our revenue as a percentage of total former parent revenue or based upon transactional volume in each fiscal year. (f) Costs were allocated from our former parent to us up to the spin date. No costs were allocated to us by our former parent after the spin-off.

Basis of presentation and sum21

Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies (Policies)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of presentation: Our accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated and combined financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("U.S. GAAP") and the instructions for Form 10-Q. Therefore, the accompanying statements do not include all information and footnotes which are normally included in the Form 10-K and annual report to shareholders. These unaudited condensed consolidated and combined financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated and combined financial statements and notes thereto included in our annual report on Form 10-K for fiscal year 2015 ("2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K"). In our opinion, the financial statements reflect all adjustments of a normal recurring nature necessary for a fair presentation of results for the interim periods presented. Results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year. All intercompany accounts have been eliminated in consolidation. Prior to the spin-off, we did not prepare separate financial statements. The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated and combined financial statements for periods prior to the spin-off were derived from the condensed and consolidated financial statements and accounting records of our former parent and present our combined financial position, results of operations, and cash flows as of and for the periods presented as if we were a separate entity. Through the date of the spin-off and in preparing these unaudited condensed consolidated and combined financial statements, management has made certain assumptions or implemented methodologies to allocate various expenses from our former parent to us and from us back to our former parent in the form of cost recoveries. These allocations represent services provided between the two entities and are more fully detailed in Note 14 — Relationship with our former parent . We believe the assumptions and methodologies used in these allocations are reasonable; however, such allocated costs, net of cost recoveries, may not be indicative of the actual level of expense that would have been incurred had we been operating on a stand-alone basis, and, accordingly, may not necessarily reflect our combined financial position, results of operations, and cash flows had we operated as a stand-alone entity during the periods presented. For periods subsequent to the spin-off, our financial statements are presented on a consolidated basis as we became a separate consolidated entity.
Use of Estimates	Use of estimates: The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates, judgments, and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the unaudited condensed consolidated and combined financial statements and footnotes thereto. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates inherent in the preparation of such financial statements include accounting for asset impairments, reserves established for doubtful accounts, equity-based compensation, depreciation and amortization, business combinations, income taxes, litigation matters, and contingencies.
Segment Presentation	Segment presentation : In the third quarter of 2016, we determined, based on the way we manage our businesses, the nature of those businesses, and the nature of our recent acquisitions, to add an additional operating segment specific to ReachLocal. Our operating segments and goodwill reporting units are now Domestic Publishing, the U.K. group and ReachLocal. Furthermore, pursuant to the criteria under the Financial Accounting Standards Board's ("FASB") guidance in Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 280, Segment Reporting , we aggregate our Domestic Publishing segment and the U.K. group into a reportable segment known as Publishing. Our reportable segments beginning in the third quarter of 2016 are Publishing and ReachLocal. In addition to these reportable segments, we have a Corporate and Other category that includes activities that are not directly attributable to or allocable to a specific segment. For further details, see Note 13 — Segment reporting .
Business Combinations	Business combinations: We allocate the fair value of purchase consideration to the tangible assets acquired, liabilities assumed, and intangible assets acquired based on their estimated fair values. The excess of the fair value of purchase consideration over the value of these identifiable assets and liabilities is recorded as goodwill. When determining the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, management makes significant estimates and assumptions, especially with respect to intangible assets. Critical estimates in valuing certain identifiable assets include, but are not limited to, expected long-term revenues, future expected operating expenses, cost of capital, and appropriate discount rates. Management's estimates of fair value are based upon assumptions believed to be reasonable but which are inherently uncertain and unpredictable. As a result, actual results may differ from estimates.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue recognition: Our revenues include amounts charged to customers for space purchased in our newspapers, digital ads placed on our digital platforms, advertising and marketing service fees, advertising products, commercial printing, and the provision and sale of online marketing products through our ReachLocal subsidiary. Revenues also include circulation revenues for newspapers (both print and digital) purchased by readers or distributors, reduced by the amount of any discounts taken. Circulation revenues, including online subscriptions, are recognized when purchased newspapers are distributed or made available on our digital platforms. Advertising revenues are recognized net of agency commissions in the period when advertising is printed or placed on digital platforms. Marketing services revenues are generally recognized when advertisements or services are delivered. Commercial printing revenues are recognized when the product is delivered to the customer. Amounts received from customers in advance of revenue recognition are deferred as liabilities. For our online marketing products provided by our ReachLocal subsidiary, we typically enter into multi-month agreements for the delivery of our products. Under our agreements, our clients typically pay, in advance, a fixed fee on a monthly basis, which includes all charges for the included technology and any media services, management, third-party content and other costs and fees. We record these prepayments as deferred revenue and only record revenue for income statement purposes as we purchase media and perform other services. Revenue from the licensing of our products is recognized on a straight line basis over the applicable license or service period. We have various advertising agreements which have both print and digital deliverables. Revenue from sales agreements containing multiple deliverable elements is allocated to each element based on the relative best estimate of selling price. Elements are treated as separate units of accounting if there is standalone value upon delivery.
Revenue Recognition, Multiple-deliverable Arrangements	We have various advertising agreements which have both print and digital deliverables. Revenue from sales agreements containing multiple deliverable elements is allocated to each element based on the relative best estimate of selling price. Elements are treated as separate units of accounting if there is standalone value upon delivery.
Software Development Costs	Software development costs: Our subsidiary ReachLocal incurs certain costs to develop software for internal use. These costs are capitalized when it is determined the development efforts will result in new or additional functionality or new products. Costs incurred prior to meeting these criteria and costs associated with ongoing maintenance are expensed as incurred and included in costs of sales and operating expenses, in addition to amortization of capitalized software development costs, in the accompanying condensed consolidated and combined statements of income. We monitor our existing capitalized software costs and reduce their carrying value as a result of releases rendering previous features or functions obsolete. Software development costs are evaluated for impairment in accordance with our policy for finite-lived intangible assets and other long-lived assets. Costs capitalized as internal use software are amortized on a straight-line basis over an estimated useful life of three years.
Recent Accounting Standards	Recent accounting standards issued but not yet adopted: In July 2015, the FASB delayed the effective date for ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers ("Topic 606"). The core principle contemplated by ASU 2014-09 is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount reflecting the consideration the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. New disclosures about the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers are also required. We are currently evaluating the provisions of Topic 606 and assessing the impact on our consolidated financial results. In April 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-10 to clarify and amend the identification of performance obligations and licensing implementation guidance contained within Topic 606. Further, the FASB issued ASU 2016-12 in May 2016 to clarify certain core principles of Topic 606 related to assessing the collectability criterion, presenting taxes collected from customers, noncash considerations, contract modifications, and completed contracts at transition. We are required to adopt the standard and its associated amendments in the first quarter of 2018 and retroactively apply it to our 2016 and 2017 financial results at the time of adoption. Under the new rules, we are permitted to adopt the new standard and amendments in 2017. We can also choose to apply the standard and amendments using either the full retrospective approach or a modified retrospective approach which recognizes a cumulative catch up adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings. We have not yet selected a transition method, and we are currently evaluating the effect the updated guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-11, Inventory ("Topic 330"), which requires entities using the first-in, first-out inventory costing method to subsequently value inventory at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Topic 330 defines net realizable value as the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. Topic 330 is effective for fiscal years and interim periods within those years beginning after December 15, 2016, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the provisions of Topic 330 and assessing the impact on our consolidated financial results. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases ("Topic 842"), which modifies lease accounting for both lessees and lessors to increase transparency and comparability by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities by lessees for those leases classified as operating leases under previous accounting standards and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the provisions of Topic 842 and assessing the impact on our consolidated financial results. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Stock Compensation, which simplifies certain aspects of the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including income taxes, classification of awards, and classification in the statement of cash flows. This guidance is effective for fiscal years and interim periods within those years beginning after December 15, 2016, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the provisions of ASU 2016-09 and assessing the impact on our consolidated financial results. In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows ("Topic 230"), which addresses certain cash flow issues such as debt prepayment, debt extinguishment costs, contingent consideration payments made after a business combination, and distributions received from equity method investees. This guidance is effective for fiscal years and interim periods within those years beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the provisions of ASU 2016-15 and assessing the impact on our consolidated financial results.

Acquisitions (Tables)

Acquisitions (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	As of the acquisition date, the purchase price assigned to the acquired assets and assumed liabilities is summarized as follows: In thousands Current assets $ 12,310 Property, plant and equipment 20,672 Intangible assets 28,440 Goodwill 30,703 Total assets acquired 92,125 Current liabilities 10,860 Noncurrent liabilities 14,211 Total liabilities assumed 25,071 Net assets acquired $ 67,054 As of the acquisition date, the purchase price assigned to the acquired assets and assumed liabilities is summarized as follows: In thousands Cash acquired $ 36,825 Other current assets 54,571 Property, plant and equipment 265,641 Intangible assets 42,880 Goodwill 25,259 Other noncurrent assets 3,825 Total assets acquired 429,001 Current liabilities 76,709 Noncurrent liabilities 57,246 Total liabilities assumed 133,955 Net assets acquired $ 295,046 As of the acquisition date, the purchase price assigned to the acquired assets and assumed liabilities is summarized as follows: In thousands Cash acquired $ 13,195 Other current assets 15,058 Property, plant and equipment 13,486 Intangible assets 88,500 Goodwill 114,470 Other noncurrent assets 9,641 Total assets acquired 254,350 Current liabilities 49,800 Noncurrent liabilities 28,807 Total liabilities assumed 78,607 Net assets acquired $ 175,743
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information	The following table sets forth unaudited pro forma results of operations assuming the ReachLocal, NJMG and JMG acquisitions, along with transactions necessary to finance the acquisitions, occurred at the beginning of 2015: Unaudited Nine months ended In thousands Sept. 25, 2016 Sept. 27, 2015 Total revenues $ 2,542,117 $ 2,823,440 Net income $ 12,346 $ 44,090 Earnings per share - diluted $ 0.10 $ 0.38

Restructuring activities (Table

Restructuring activities (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring and Related Costs	A summary of our liabilities related to employee termination actions for the nine months ended September 25, 2016 is as follows: In thousands Severance Related to Acquisitions USA TODAY 2015 EROP August 2015 EROP Various One-Time Actions Ongoing Severance Plan Balance at Dec. 27, 2015 $ — $ 3,337 $ 28,393 $ 9,818 $ 4,035 Expense 15,383 — 837 10,357 254 Payments (6,832 ) (2,407 ) (27,034 ) (12,695 ) (2,504 ) Adjustments 941 (930 ) 864 (2,400 ) — Balance at Sept. 25, 2016 $ 9,492 $ — $ 3,060 $ 5,080 $ 1,785

Goodwill and other intangible24

Goodwill and other intangible assets (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Intangible Assets and Goodwill	The following table displays information on our goodwill, indefinite-lived intangible assets and amortizable intangible assets: In thousands Sept. 25, 2016 Dec. 27, 2015 Gross Accumulated Amortization Gross Accumulated Amortization Goodwill $ 699,891 $ — $ 575,685 $ — Indefinite-lived intangibles: Mastheads 62,568 — 31,521 — Amortizable intangible assets: Developed technology 54,000 (2,350 ) — — Customer relationships 104,718 (44,200 ) 68,005 (39,813 ) Other 24,782 (12,414 ) 11,478 (11,478 )
Changes in the Company's net goodwill	The following table summarizes the changes in our net goodwill balance through September 25, 2016 : In thousands Publishing ReachLocal Consolidated Balance at Dec. 27, 2015: Goodwill $ 7,297,752 $ — $ 7,297,752 Accumulated impairment losses (6,722,067 ) — (6,722,067 ) Net balance at Dec. 27, 2015 575,685 — 575,685 Activity during the period: Acquisitions and adjustments (see Note 2) 34,487 114,470 148,957 Foreign currency exchange rate changes (24,751 ) — (24,751 ) Total 9,736 114,470 124,206 Balance at Sept. 25, 2016: Goodwill 7,028,359 114,470 7,142,829 Accumulated impairment losses (6,442,938 ) — (6,442,938 ) Net balance at Sept. 25, 2016 $ 585,421 $ 114,470 $ 699,891

Retirement plans (Tables)

Retirement plans (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Pension Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Benefit costs	Our retirement plan costs include costs for all of our qualified plans and our allocated portions of former parent-sponsored qualified and non-qualified plans and are presented in the following table: In thousands Three months ended Nine months ended Sept. 25, 2016 Sept. 27, 2015 (a) Sept. 25, 2016 Sept. 27, 2015 (a) Service cost-benefits earned during the period $ 818 $ 995 $ 2,446 $ 3,204 Interest cost on benefit obligation 30,853 32,997 94,571 98,483 Expected return on plan assets (45,560 ) (49,742 ) (138,708 ) (147,068 ) Amortization of prior service cost 1,668 1,705 4,997 5,173 Amortization of actuarial loss 15,823 13,594 46,946 41,267 Expense (credit) for retirement plans $ 3,602 $ (451 ) $ 10,252 $ 1,059 (a) A portion of our current and former employees also participated in pension plans sponsored by our former parent. Retirement benefits obligations and assets pursuant to the former parent-sponsored retirement plans related to our current and former employees were transferred to us at the separation date and, accordingly, were allocated to us in our unaudited condensed combined financial statements for all periods prior to the spin-off. This allocation was done by determining the projected benefit obligation of participants for which the liability was transferred. Subsequent to the spin-off, no further costs were allocated to us.

Post-retirement benefits othe26

Post-retirement benefits other than pension (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Post-retirement Benefits Other Than Pension [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Postretirement benefit costs for health care and life insurance	Our postretirement benefit costs and our allocated portions of former parent-sponsored postretirement plans for health care and life insurance are presented in the following table: In thousands Three months ended Nine months ended Sept. 25, 2016 Sept. 27, 2015 Sept. 25, 2016 Sept. 27, 2015 Service cost-benefits earned during the period $ 49 $ 75 $ 146 $ 272 Interest cost on net benefit obligation 964 989 2,838 2,961 Amortization of prior service credit (1,198 ) (2,355 ) (3,458 ) (7,277 ) Amortization of actuarial loss 202 315 266 1,102 Net periodic postretirement benefit expense (credit) $ 17 $ (976 ) $ (208 ) $ (2,942 )

Supplemental equity informati27

Supplemental equity information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Equity	The following table summarizes equity account activity for the nine months ended September 25, 2016 and September 27, 2015 : In thousands 2016 2015 Balance at beginning of period $ 1,058,576 $ 937,472 Comprehensive income: Net income 19,324 125,740 Other comprehensive income (see Note 1) 8,620 62,741 Total comprehensive income 27,944 188,481 Dividends declared (55,936 ) (18,462 ) Stock-based compensation 14,986 12,359 Other activity (see Note 1) 19,544 3,409 Transactions with our former parent, net — (43,145 ) Balance at end of period $ 1,065,114 $ 1,080,114
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	The following table summarizes the components of, and the changes in, Accumulated other comprehensive loss (net of tax): In thousands Retirement Plans Foreign Currency Translation Total Balance at Dec. 27, 2015 $ (1,058,234 ) $ 384,810 $ (673,424 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 39,751 (62,440 ) (22,689 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 31,309 — 31,309 Other comprehensive income (loss) 71,060 (62,440 ) 8,620 Balance at Sept. 25, 2016 $ (987,174 ) $ 322,370 $ (664,804 ) Balance at Dec. 28, 2014 $ (1,082,312 ) $ 404,200 $ (678,112 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 49,147 (11,996 ) 37,151 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 25,590 — 25,590 Other comprehensive income (loss) 74,737 (11,996 ) 62,741 Transactions with former parent 7,237 — 7,237 Balance at Sept. 27, 2015 $ (1,000,338 ) $ 392,204 $ (608,134 )
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive loss related to these postretirement plans include the following: In thousands Three months ended Nine months ended Sept. 25, 2016 Sept. 27, 2015 Sept. 25, 2016 Sept. 27, 2015 Amortization of prior service credit, net $ 470 $ (650 ) $ 1,539 $ (2,104 ) Amortization of actuarial loss 16,025 13,909 47,212 42,369 Total reclassifications, before tax 16,495 13,259 48,751 40,265 Income tax effect (5,936 ) (5,043 ) (17,442 ) (14,675 ) Total reclassifications, net of tax $ 10,559 $ 8,216 $ 31,309 $ 25,590

Earnings (loss) per share (Tabl

Earnings (loss) per share (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted	For the three and nine months ended September 25, 2016 and September 27, 2015 , basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share were as follows: In thousands, except per share data Three months ended Nine months ended Sept. 25, 2016 Sept. 27, 2015 Sept. 25, 2016 Sept. 27, 2015 Net income (loss) $ (24,242 ) $ 39,166 $ 19,324 $ 125,740 Weighted average number of shares outstanding - basic 116,556 115,186 116,461 115,035 Effect of dilutive securities Restricted stock units — 1,312 1,321 437 Performance share units — 1,117 761 373 Stock options — 553 243 184 Weighted average number of shares outstanding - diluted 116,556 118,168 118,786 116,029 Earnings (loss) per share - basic $ (0.21 ) $ 0.34 $ 0.17 $ 1.09 Earnings (loss) per share - diluted $ (0.21 ) $ 0.33 $ 0.16 $ 1.08

Segment reporting (Tables)

Segment reporting (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment	The segment information for the three months ended September 25, 2016 and September 27, 2015 was as follows: In thousands Publishing ReachLocal Corporate and Other Consolidated 2016 Advertising $ 397,214 $ 31,839 $ — $ 429,053 Circulation 285,583 — — 285,583 Other 53,773 3,138 774 57,685 Total revenues $ 736,570 $ 34,977 $ 774 $ 772,321 Adjusted EBITDA $ 87,490 $ (6,744 ) $ (25,469 ) $ 55,277 2015 Advertising $ 384,149 $ — $ — $ 384,149 Circulation 265,227 — — 265,227 Other 51,822 — 38 51,860 Total revenues $ 701,198 $ — $ 38 $ 701,236 Adjusted EBITDA $ 124,806 $ — $ (27,796 ) $ 97,010 The segment information for the nine months ended September 25, 2016 and September 27, 2015 was as follows: In thousands Publishing ReachLocal Corporate and Other Consolidated 2016 Advertising $ 1,158,269 $ 31,839 $ — $ 1,190,108 Circulation 835,872 — — 835,872 Other 148,480 3,138 2,882 154,500 Total revenues $ 2,142,621 $ 34,977 $ 2,882 $ 2,180,480 Adjusted EBITDA $ 301,229 $ (6,744 ) $ (71,887 ) $ 222,598 2015 Advertising $ 1,191,902 $ — $ — $ 1,191,902 Circulation 802,389 — — 802,389 Other 151,339 — 38 151,377 Total revenues $ 2,145,630 $ — $ 38 $ 2,145,668 Adjusted EBITDA $ 312,339 $ — $ (47,171 ) $ 265,168 The following table present our reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net income: In thousands Three months ended Nine months ended Sept. 25, 2016 Sept. 27, 2015 Sept. 25, 2016 Sept. 27, 2015 Net income (loss) (GAAP basis) $ (24,242 ) $ 39,166 $ 19,324 $ 125,740 Provision (benefit) for income taxes (8,942 ) 10,141 12,949 34,611 Equity (income) loss in unconsolidated investees, net 766 (609 ) (844 ) (11,411 ) Interest expense 3,652 1,582 8,509 1,760 Other non-operating items, net 176 1,833 2,964 (19,782 ) Operating income (loss) (GAAP basis) (28,590 ) 52,113 42,902 130,918 Early retirement program 2 10,572 837 18,373 Severance-related charges 5,135 5,872 25,994 25,386 Acquisition-related expenses 14,416 — 29,055 — Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges 28,673 66 31,960 6,711 Depreciation 30,638 25,291 83,889 73,677 Amortization 5,003 3,096 7,961 10,103 Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP basis) $ 55,277 $ 97,010 $ 222,598 $ 265,168

Relationship with our former 30

Relationship with our former parent (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016
Transactions with Former Parent [Abstract]
Schedule of transactions with former parent	These allocated costs, net of cost recoveries, are summarized in the following table: Nine months ended In thousands Sept. 27, 2015 (f) Corporate allocations (a) $ 25,832 Occupancy (b) 2,884 Depreciation (c) 4,067 Other support costs (d) 6,249 Cost recoveries (e) (6,055 ) Total $ 32,977 (a) The corporate allocations related to support we received from our former parent and its affiliates for certain corporate activities include: (i) corporate general and administrative expenses, (ii) marketing services, (iii) investor relations, (iv) legal, (v) human resources, (vi) internal audit, (vii) financial reporting, (viii) tax, (ix) treasury, (x) information technology, (xi) production services, (xii) travel services and (xiii) other former parent corporate and infrastructure costs. For these services, we recorded an allocation of a management fee based on actual costs incurred by our former parent and its affiliates. This was allocated to us based upon our revenue as a percentage of total former parent revenue in each fiscal period. (b) Occupancy costs relate to certain facilities owned and/or leased by our former parent and its affiliates that were utilized by our employees and principally relate to shared corporate office space. These costs were charged to us primarily based on actual square footage utilized or our revenue as a percentage of total former parent revenue in each fiscal period. Occupancy costs include facility rent, repairs and maintenance, security and other occupancy-related costs incurred to manage the properties. (c) Depreciation expense was allocated by our former parent and its affiliates for certain assets. These assets primarily relate to facilities and IT equipment that are utilized by our former parent and us to operate our businesses. These assets have not been included in our unaudited condensed combined balance sheets. Depreciation expense was allocated primarily based on our revenue as a percentage of total former parent revenue or our utilization of these assets. (d) Other support costs related to charges to us from our former parent and its affiliates include certain insurance costs and our allocated portions of share-based compensation costs and net periodic pension costs relating to the SERP for employees of our former parent. Such costs were allocated based on actual costs incurred or our revenue as a percentage of total former parent revenue. (e) Cost recoveries reflect costs recovered from our former parent and its affiliates for functions provided by us, such as functions that serve our former parent's digital and broadcasting platforms for content optimization and financial transaction processing at shared service centers. Such costs were primarily allocated based on our revenue as a percentage of total former parent revenue or based upon transactional volume in each fiscal year. (f) Costs were allocated from our former parent to us up to the spin date. No costs were allocated to us by our former parent after the spin-off.

Basis of presentation and sum31

Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies (Details) $ in Thousands	Jun. 29, 2015	Sep. 25, 2016USD ($)publication	Sep. 27, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 25, 2016USD ($)publication	Sep. 27, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 27, 2015USD ($)
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Pro rata distribution to Parents' stockholders (as a percent)	98.50%
Conversion ratio for every share of parent company common stock owned by stockholders	0.5
Shares held by Former Parent after distribution (as a percent)	1.50%
Former Parent to own shares for period, not to exceed	5 years
Decrease to Postretirement medical and life insurance liabilities		$ (87,731)		$ (87,731)		$ (87,594)
Decrease to pension liabilities		(442,539)		(442,539)		$ (612,443)
Increase to accumulated other comprehensive loss		$ (1,886)	$ (43,809)	$ (8,620)	$ (62,741)
U.S and U.K. [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of daily publications | publication		129		129
U.S. [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of daily publications | publication		110		110
Number of non-daily publications, more than | publication		600		600
U.K. [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of non-daily publications, more than | publication		150		150
Correction of Error to Postretirement Benefits Liabilities Transferred by Former Parent [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Decrease to Postretirement medical and life insurance liabilities		$ 2,800		$ 2,800
Decrease to pension liabilities		23,100		23,100
Increase to investment by former parent, net		17,500		17,500
Increase to accumulated other comprehensive loss				1,600
Decrease to deferred tax assets		$ 10,000		$ 10,000
Software Development [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Useful life				3 years

Acquisitions - Narrative (Detai

Acquisitions - Narrative (Details) $ in Thousands	Aug. 09, 2016USD ($)	Jul. 06, 2016USD ($)	Apr. 08, 2016USD ($)marketstate	Jun. 01, 2015USD ($)	May 26, 2015USD ($)publication	Sep. 25, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 27, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 25, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 27, 2015USD ($)	May 31, 2015USD ($)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired								$ 462,379	$ 28,668
Borrowings under credit facility								455,000	0
Acquisition related costs						$ 14,416	$ 0	29,055	0
Net gain recognized on acquisition								0	$ 21,799
ReachLocal, Inc. [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Interest acquired (as a percent)	100.00%
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired	$ 162,500
Acquisition related costs								12,400
Revenue since acquisition date								35,000
Operating losses since acquisition date								(11,100)
North Jersey Media Group, Inc. [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition, transaction value		$ 39,300
Journal Media Group, Inc. [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Interest acquired (as a percent)			100.00%
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired			$ 260,600
Acquisition related costs incurred to date						$ 13,200		13,200
Acquisition related costs								10,700
Revenue since acquisition date								191,100
Operating losses since acquisition date								$ (6,500)
Non-cash consideration			$ 2,000
Number of domestic markets print and digital publishing combined operations serve | market			15
Number of states in which entity operates | state			9
Texas-New Mexico Newspapers Partnership (TNP) [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Interest acquired (as a percent)	59.40%
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired				$ 5,200
Additional deferred consideration recognized				$ 1,900
Ownership interests in acquired company (as a percent)				100.00%
Ownership interests held prior to acquisition date (as a percent)				40.60%
Fair value of interests on acquisition date				$ 26,600
Net gain recognized on acquisition				$ 21,800
California Newspapers Partnership (CNP) [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Assignment of interest for acquisition (as a percent)				19.50%
Fair value of ownership interest assigned				$ 34,400
Texas-New Mexico Newspapers Partnership (TNP) and California Newspapers Partnership (CNP) [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Pre-acquisition carrying value										$ 39,200
Romanes Media Group [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of daily publications | publication					1
Number of weekly publications | publication					28
Newsquest [Member] | Romanes Media Group [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Interest acquired (as a percent)					100.00%
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired					$ 23,400
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Line of Credit [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Borrowings under credit facility			$ 250,000
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Line of Credit [Member] | ReachLocal, Inc. [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Borrowings under credit facility	$ 175,000

Acquisitions - Schedule of Asse

Acquisitions - Schedule of Assets Acquired, Liabilities Assumed (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 25, 2016	Aug. 09, 2016	Jul. 06, 2016	Apr. 08, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015	Jun. 01, 2015
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 699,891				$ 575,685
ReachLocal, Inc. [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash acquired		$ 13,195
Other current assets		15,058
Property, plant and equipment		13,486
Intangible assets		88,500
Goodwill		114,470
Other noncurrent assets		9,641
Total assets acquired		254,350
Current liabilities		49,800
Noncurrent liabilities		28,807
Total liabilities assumed		78,607
Net assets acquired		$ 175,743
North Jersey Media Group, Inc. [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment			$ 26,100
Intangible assets			7,200
Goodwill			8,300
Noncurrent liabilities			300
Net working capital			$ 3,400
Journal Media Group, Inc. [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash acquired				$ 36,825
Other current assets				54,571
Property, plant and equipment				265,641
Intangible assets				42,880
Goodwill				25,259
Other noncurrent assets				3,825
Total assets acquired				429,001
Current liabilities				76,709
Noncurrent liabilities				57,246
Total liabilities assumed				133,955
Net assets acquired				$ 295,046
Texas-New Mexico Newspapers Partnership (TNP) [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Current assets						$ 12,310
Property, plant and equipment						20,672
Intangible assets						28,440
Goodwill						30,703
Total assets acquired						92,125
Current liabilities						10,860
Noncurrent liabilities						14,211
Total liabilities assumed						25,071
Net assets acquired						$ 67,054

Acquisitions - Pro Forma Inform

Acquisitions - Pro Forma Information (Details) - Journal Media Group, Inc. [Member] - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total revenues	$ 2,542,117	$ 2,823,440
Net income	$ 12,346	$ 44,090
Earnings per share - diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.10	$ 0.38

Restructuring activities - Narr

Restructuring activities - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015
Severance [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	$ 5,100,000	$ 5,900,000	$ 26,000,000	$ 25,400,000
Facility Closing [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Asset impairment and other charges, pre-tax amount	28,700,000	1,300,000	33,200,000	8,000,000
Cost of Sales [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	4,100,000	13,500,000	22,100,000	35,400,000
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	1,000,000	2,900,000	4,700,000	8,400,000
USA Today Early Retirement Opportunity Program (EROP) [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Cost incurred to date		7,800,000		7,800,000
Restructuring charges		7,800,000	0	7,800,000
Early Retirement Opportunity Program (EROP) August 2015 [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges		$ 10,600,000	837,000	$ 10,600,000
Early Retirement Opportunity Program (EROP) August 2015 [Member] | Severance [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Cost incurred to date	35,100,000		35,100,000
Severance Related to Acquisitions [Member] | Severance [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	$ 6,300,000		$ 15,383,000

Restructuring activities - Rest

Restructuring activities - Restructuring Reserve (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015
USA Today 2015 EROP [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance			$ 3,337,000
Expense		$ 7,800,000	0	$ 7,800,000
Payments			(2,407,000)
Adjustments			(930,000)
Ending balance	$ 0		0
August 2015 EROP [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance			28,393,000
Expense		10,600,000	837,000	10,600,000
Payments			(27,034,000)
Adjustments			864,000
Ending balance	3,060,000		3,060,000
Ongoing Severance Plan [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance			4,035,000
Expense			254,000
Payments			(2,504,000)
Adjustments			0
Ending balance	1,785,000		1,785,000
Severance [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Expense	5,100,000	$ 5,900,000	26,000,000	$ 25,400,000
Severance [Member] | Severance Related to Acquisitions [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance			0
Expense	6,300,000		15,383,000
Payments			(6,832,000)
Adjustments			941,000
Ending balance	9,492,000		9,492,000
Various One-Time Actions [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance			9,818,000
Expense			10,357,000
Payments			(12,695,000)
Adjustments			(2,400,000)
Ending balance	$ 5,080,000		$ 5,080,000

Goodwill and other intangible37

Goodwill and other intangible assets - Intangibles and Goodwill (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 699,891	$ 575,685
Developed Technology [Member]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangibles, Gross	54,000	0
Finite-lived Intangibles, Accumulated Amortization	(2,350)	0
Customer Relationships [Member]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangibles, Gross	104,718	68,005
Finite-lived Intangibles, Accumulated Amortization	(44,200)	(39,813)
Other [Member]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangibles, Gross	24,782	11,478
Finite-lived Intangibles, Accumulated Amortization	(12,414)	(11,478)
Mastheads [Member]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Indefinite-lived intangibles, Gross	$ 62,568	$ 31,521

Goodwill and other intangible38

Goodwill and other intangible assets - Changes in Goodwill (Details) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016USD ($)
Changes in the Company's net goodwill
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	$ 7,297,752
Accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	(6,722,067)
Beginning balance	575,685
Acquisitions and adjustments	148,957
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	(24,751)
Total	124,206
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses ending balance	7,142,829
Accumulated impairment losses ending balance	(6,442,938)
Ending balance	699,891
Publishing [Member]
Changes in the Company's net goodwill
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	7,297,752
Accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	(6,722,067)
Beginning balance	575,685
Acquisitions and adjustments	34,487
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	(24,751)
Total	9,736
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses ending balance	7,028,359
Accumulated impairment losses ending balance	(6,442,938)
Ending balance	585,421
ReachLocal, Inc. [Member]
Changes in the Company's net goodwill
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	0
Accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	0
Beginning balance	0
Acquisitions and adjustments	114,470
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	0
Total	114,470
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses ending balance	114,470
Accumulated impairment losses ending balance	0
Ending balance	$ 114,470

Revolving credit facility - Nar

Revolving credit facility - Narrative (Details)	Aug. 09, 2016USD ($)	Apr. 08, 2016USD ($)	Jun. 29, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 25, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 27, 2015USD ($)
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Borrowings under credit facility				$ 455,000,000	$ 0
Line of Credit [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Borrowings under credit facility		$ 250,000,000
Outstanding amount				385,000,000
Remaining borrowing capacity				108,100,000
Line of Credit [Member] | Letter of Credit [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity				50,000,000
Outstanding amount				$ 6,900,000
Line of Credit [Member] | Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility term			5 years
Maximum borrowing capacity			$ 500,000,000
Consolidated interest coverage ratio, not to be less than			3
Total leverage ratio, not to exceed			3
Federal Funds Rate [Member] | Line of Credit [Member] | Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis point spread on variable rate (as a percent)			0.50%
LIBOR [Member] | Line of Credit [Member] | Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis point spread on variable rate (as a percent)			1.00%
Minimum [Member] | Line of Credit [Member] | Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment fee on undrawn commitments (as a percent)			0.30%
Minimum [Member] | LIBOR [Member] | Line of Credit [Member] | Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis point spread on variable rate (as a percent)			2.00%
Minimum [Member] | ABR [Member] | Line of Credit [Member] | Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis point spread on variable rate (as a percent)			1.00%
Maximum [Member] | Line of Credit [Member] | Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment fee on undrawn commitments (as a percent)			0.40%
Maximum [Member] | LIBOR [Member] | Line of Credit [Member] | Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis point spread on variable rate (as a percent)			2.50%
Maximum [Member] | ABR [Member] | Line of Credit [Member] | Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis point spread on variable rate (as a percent)			1.50%
ReachLocal, Inc. [Member] | Line of Credit [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Borrowings under credit facility	$ 175,000,000

Retirement plans - Retirement P

Retirement plans - Retirement Plan Costs (Details) - Pension Plans [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015
Company's pension costs
Service cost-benefits earned during the period	$ 818	$ 995	$ 2,446	$ 3,204
Interest cost on benefit obligation	30,853	32,997	94,571	98,483
Expected return on plan assets	(45,560)	(49,742)	(138,708)	(147,068)
Amortization of prior service cost	1,668	1,705	4,997	5,173
Amortization of actuarial loss	15,823	13,594	46,946	41,267
Expense (credit) for retirement plans	$ 3,602	$ (451)	$ 10,252	$ 1,059

Retirement plans - Narrative (D

Retirement plans - Narrative (Details) - Pension Plans [Member] £ in Millions, $ in Millions	1 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Mar. 27, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 25, 2016GBP (£)	Sep. 25, 2016USD ($)
Gannett Retirement Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated future employer contributions remainder of 2016			$ 0
Estimated future contributions in 2021			15
Contribution to the defined benefit plans	$ 25
Newsquest Retirement Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated future employer contributions remainder of 2016 | £		£ 1.9
Contribution to the defined benefit plans		£ 34.8	46.7
Gannett Retirement Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated future employer contributions in 2017			25
Estimated future employer contributions in 2018			25
Estimated future employer contributions in 2019			25
Estimated future employer contributions in 2020			$ 25

Retirement plans - Additional I

Retirement plans - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015
Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Employer 401(k) matching contribution (as a percent)			100.00%
Maximum employee contributions subject to employer match (as a percent)			5.00%
Minimum number of employee working hours required to be eligible to participate in 401(k) plan			1000 hours
Expense for employer contributions to Parent 401(k) plan	$ 7.5	$ 6.5	$ 21.7	$ 21.2
Journal Media Group 401(k) Savings Plan [Member]
Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Employer 401(k) matching contribution (as a percent)			50.00%
Maximum employee contributions subject to employer match (as a percent)			7.00%

Post-retirement benefits othe43

Post-retirement benefits other than pension - Post-Retirement Benefit Costs (Details) - Post-retirement Benefits Other Than Pension [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015
Postretirement benefit costs for health care and life insurance
Service cost-benefits earned during the period	$ 49	$ 75	$ 146	$ 272
Interest cost on net benefit obligation	964	989	2,838	2,961
Amortization of prior service credit	(1,198)	(2,355)	(3,458)	(7,277)
Amortization of actuarial loss	202	315	266	1,102
Expense (credit) for retirement plans	$ 17	$ (976)	$ (208)	$ (2,942)

Income taxes - Narrative (Detai

Income taxes - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015	Dec. 27, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Effective income tax rate (as a percent)	26.90%	20.60%	40.20%	21.60%
Unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact effective tax rate	$ 10.4		$ 10.4		$ 11.3
Accrued interest and penalties payable related to unrecognized tax benefits	3.9		3.9		$ 3.4
Estimated decrease in gross unrecognized tax positions within the next 12 months, maximum	$ 1.8		$ 1.8

Supplemental equity informati45

Supplemental equity information - Equity Activity (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			$ 1,058,576	$ 937,472
Comprehensive income:
Net income (loss)	$ (24,242)	$ 39,166	19,324	125,740
Other comprehensive income	1,886	43,809	8,620	62,741
Comprehensive income (loss)	(22,356)	82,975	27,944	188,481
Dividends declared			(55,936)	(18,462)
Stock-based compensation			14,986	12,359
Other activity			19,544	3,409
Transactions with our former parent, net			0	(43,145)
Ending Balance	$ 1,065,114	$ 1,080,114	$ 1,065,114	$ 1,080,114

Supplemental equity informati46

Supplemental equity information - Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			$ 1,058,576	$ 937,472
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	$ 1,886	$ 43,809	8,620	62,741
Ending Balance	1,065,114	1,080,114	1,065,114	1,080,114
Retirement Plans [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			(1,058,234)	(1,082,312)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications			39,751	49,147
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss			31,309	25,590
Other comprehensive income, net of tax			71,060	74,737
Transactions with former parent				7,237
Ending Balance	(987,174)	(1,000,338)	(987,174)	(1,000,338)
Foreign Currency Translation [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			384,810	404,200
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications			(62,440)	(11,996)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss			0	0
Other comprehensive income, net of tax			(62,440)	(11,996)
Transactions with former parent				0
Ending Balance	322,370	392,204	322,370	392,204
Total [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			(673,424)	(678,112)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications			(22,689)	37,151
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss			31,309	25,590
Other comprehensive income, net of tax			8,620	62,741
Transactions with former parent				7,237
Ending Balance	$ (664,804)	$ (608,134)	$ (664,804)	$ (608,134)

Supplemental equity informati47

Supplemental equity information - Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Details) - Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015
Net Prior Service Credit [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Total reclassifications, before tax	$ 470	$ (650)	$ 1,539	$ (2,104)
Actuarial Loss [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Total reclassifications, before tax	16,025	13,909	47,212	42,369
Retirement Plans [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Total reclassifications, before tax	16,495	13,259	48,751	40,265
Income tax effect	(5,936)	(5,043)	(17,442)	(14,675)
Total reclassifications, net of tax	$ 10,559	$ 8,216	$ 31,309	$ 25,590

Fair value measurement - Narrat

Fair value measurement - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 25, 2016	Dec. 27, 2015
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets held for sale	$ 2,001	$ 12,288
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets held for sale	$ 2,000	$ 12,300

Commitments, contingencies an49

Commitments, contingencies and other matters - Narrative (Details)	Jan. 02, 2014USD ($)
Minimum [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Statutory penalty per incident	$ 500
Maximum [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Statutory penalty per incident	$ 1,500

Earnings (loss) per share - Nar

Earnings (loss) per share - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	Oct. 12, 2016	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015	Dec. 27, 2015	Jul. 31, 2015	Jun. 29, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Percentage of shares distributed by parent (as a percent)								98.50%
Shares retained by former parent (as a percent)								1.50%
Common stock, shares, outstanding		116,589,000		116,589,000		115,668,957		115,000,000
Stock repurchase program, authorized amount							$ 150,000,000
Stock repurchase program, period in force				3 years
Stock repurchased during period (in shares)				0
Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Net income (loss)		$ (24,242,000)	$ 39,166,000	$ 19,324,000	$ 125,740,000
Weighted average number of shares outstanding - basic		116,556,000	115,186,000	116,461,000	115,035,000
Effect of dilutive securities
Weighted average number of shares outstanding - diluted		116,556,000	118,168,000	118,786,000	116,029,000
Earnings (loss) per share – basic (in dollars per share)		$ (0.21)	$ 0.34	$ 0.17	$ 1.09
Earnings (loss) per share – diluted (in dollars per share)		(0.21)	$ 0.33	$ 0.16	$ 1.08
Impact of anti-dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share (in dollars per share)		$ (0.01)
Restricted stock units [Member]
Effect of dilutive securities
Effect of dilutive securities (in shares)		0	1,312,000	1,321,000	437,000
Performance share units [Member]
Effect of dilutive securities
Effect of dilutive securities (in shares)		0	1,117,000	761,000	373,000
Stock options [Member]
Effect of dilutive securities
Effect of dilutive securities (in shares)		0	553,000	243,000	184,000
Subsequent Event [Member]
Effect of dilutive securities
Dividend declared per common share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.16

Segment reporting (Details)

Segment reporting (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Advertising	$ 429,053	$ 384,149	$ 1,190,108	$ 1,191,902
Circulation	285,583	265,227	835,872	802,389
Other	57,685	51,860	154,500	151,377
Total operating revenues	772,321	701,236	2,180,480	2,145,668
Adjusted EBITDA	55,277	97,010	222,598	265,168
Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Advertising	429,053	384,149	1,190,108	1,191,902
Circulation	285,583	265,227	835,872	802,389
Other	57,685	51,860	154,500	151,377
Total operating revenues	772,321	701,236	2,180,480	2,145,668
Adjusted EBITDA	55,277	97,010	222,598	265,168
Operating Segments [Member] | Publishing [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Advertising	397,214	384,149	1,158,269	1,191,902
Circulation	285,583	265,227	835,872	802,389
Other	53,773	51,822	148,480	151,339
Total operating revenues	736,570	701,198	2,142,621	2,145,630
Adjusted EBITDA	87,490	124,806	301,229	312,339
Operating Segments [Member] | ReachLocal [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Advertising	31,839	0	31,839	0
Circulation	0	0	0	0
Other	3,138	0	3,138	0
Total operating revenues	34,977	0	34,977	0
Adjusted EBITDA	(6,744)	0	(6,744)	0
Corporate [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Advertising	0	0	0	0
Circulation	0	0	0	0
Other	774	38	2,882	38
Total operating revenues	774	38	2,882	38
Adjusted EBITDA	$ (25,469)	$ (27,796)	$ (71,887)	$ (47,171)

Segment reporting - Reconciliat

Segment reporting - Reconciliation of EBITDA to Operating Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ (24,242)	$ 39,166	$ 19,324	$ 125,740
Provision (benefit) for income taxes	(8,942)	10,141	12,949	34,611
Equity (income) loss in unconsolidated investees, net	766	(609)	(844)	(11,411)
Interest expense	3,652	1,582	8,509	1,760
Other non-operating items, net	176	1,833	2,964	(19,782)
Operating income (loss)	(28,590)	52,113	42,902	130,918
Early retirement program	2	10,572	837	18,373
Severance-related charges	5,135	5,872	25,994	25,386
Acquisition-related expenses	14,416	0	29,055	0
Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges	28,673	66	31,960	6,711
Depreciation	30,638	25,291	83,889	73,677
Amortization	5,003	3,096	7,961	10,103
Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP basis)	$ 55,277	$ 97,010	$ 222,598	$ 265,168

Relationship with our former 53

Relationship with our former parent - Allocated Costs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 27, 2015
Schedule of Transactions with Former Parent [Line Items]
Corporate allocations	$ 219,456	$ 173,035	$ 589,017	$ 528,248
Depreciation	$ 30,638	$ 25,291	$ 83,889	73,677
Former Parent [Member]
Schedule of Transactions with Former Parent [Line Items]
Corporate allocations				25,832
Occupancy				2,884
Depreciation				4,067
Other support costs				6,249
Cost recoveries				(6,055)
Total				$ 32,977

Relationship with our former 54

Relationship with our former parent - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 25, 2016	Sep. 25, 2016
Schedule of Transactions with Former Parent [Line Items]
Transfer services agreement, term (not later than)		24 months
Former Parent [Member]
Schedule of Transactions with Former Parent [Line Items]
IT, payroll and other services provided for former parent	$ 1.1	$ 5.4
Services provided by former parent	$ 1.4	$ 4.9