Gannett 10-Q 3 May 17 2017 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - shares	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017	Apr. 28, 2017
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	Mar. 26, 2017
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,017
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock Shares Outstanding		113,635,527
Trading Symbol	GCI

Condensed Consolidated Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 26, 2017	Dec. 25, 2016
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 89,482	$ 114,324
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $10,251 and $10,317	324,163	358,041
Other current assets	159,462	131,141
Total current assets	573,107	603,506
Property, plant and equipment, at cost net of accumulated depreciation of $1,466,761 and $1,481,897	1,046,672	1,087,701
Goodwill	701,564	698,288
Intangible assets, net	147,894	154,644
Deferred income taxes	206,258	218,232
Investments and other assets	70,261	82,310
Total assets	2,745,756	2,844,681
Current liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	373,858	438,724
Deferred income	141,302	133,263
Total current liabilities	515,160	571,987
Income taxes	15,636	25,467
Postretirement medical and life insurance liabilities	88,147	90,134
Pension liabilities	722,166	739,262
Long-term portion of revolving credit facility	385,000	400,000
Other noncurrent liabilities	169,110	161,070
Total liabilities	1,895,219	1,987,920
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, 117,360,227 shares issued at Mar. 26, 2017 and 116,624,726 shares issued at Dec. 25, 2016	1,174	1,166
Treasury stock at cost, 3,750,000 shares	(32,667)	(32,667)
Additional paid-in capital	1,771,588	1,769,905
Retained earnings (deficit)	(18,987)	1,269
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(870,571)	(882,912)
Total equity	850,537	856,761
Total liabilities and equity	$ 2,745,756	$ 2,844,681

Condensed Consolidated Balance3

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 26, 2017	Dec. 25, 2016
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable	$ 10,251	$ 10,317
Accumulated depreciation	$ 1,466,761	$ 1,481,897
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	117,360,227	116,624,726
Common stock, shares outstanding	113,610,227	112,874,726
Treasury stock, shares	3,750,000	3,750,000

Condensed Consolidated Statemen

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017	Mar. 27, 2016
Operating revenues:
Advertising	$ 435,515	$ 351,221
Circulation	283,286	262,703
Other	54,656	45,444
Total operating revenues	773,457	659,368
Operating expenses:
Cost of sales and operating expenses	508,423	417,956
Selling, general and administrative expenses	212,705	165,388
Depreciation	39,451	23,959
Amortization	7,366	1,318
Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges	4,479	544
Total operating expenses	772,424	609,165
Operating income	1,033	50,203
Non-operating expenses:
Interest expense	(4,255)	(1,855)
Other non-operating items, net (see Note 1)	(3,887)	(3,971)
Total non-operating expenses	(8,142)	(5,826)
Income (loss) before income taxes	(7,109)	44,377
Provision (benefit) for income taxes	(5,030)	4,781
Net income (loss)	$ (2,079)	$ 39,596
Earnings (loss) per share – basic (in dollars per share)	$ (0.02)	$ 0.34
Earnings (loss) per share – diluted (in dollars per share)	$ (0.02)	$ 0.33

Condensed Consolidated Stateme5

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017	Mar. 27, 2016
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ (2,079)	$ 39,596
Other comprehensive income, before tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustments	5,828	(23,049)
Pension and other postretirement benefit items:
Amortization of prior service credit, net	752	394
Amortization of actuarial loss	17,745	15,412
Other	(6,648)	21,308
Pension and other postretirement benefit items	11,849	37,114
Other comprehensive income, before tax	17,677	14,065
Income tax effect related to components of other comprehensive income	(5,336)	(9,891)
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	12,341	4,174
Comprehensive income (loss)	$ 10,262	$ 43,770

Condensed Consolidated Stateme6

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017	Mar. 27, 2016
Operating activities:
Net income (loss)	$ (2,079)	$ 39,596
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flow from operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	46,817	25,277
Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges	4,479	544
Pension and other postretirement expenses, net of contributions	(3,645)	(35,953)
Equity income in unconsolidated investees, net	(550)	(1,141)
Stock-based compensation	5,125	5,145
Change in accounts receivable	34,450	42,513
Change in accounts payable and accrued liabilities	(58,979)	(63,019)
Change in other assets and liabilities, net	5,436	12,945
Net cash provided by operating activities	31,054	25,907
Investing activities:
Capital expenditures	(15,040)	(10,153)
Payments for investments	(4,499)	(3,111)
Proceeds from sale of certain assets	228	3,616
Changes in other investing activities	119	0
Net cash used for investing activities	(19,192)	(9,648)
Financing activities:
Dividends paid	(18,177)	(18,501)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock upon settlement of stock awards	343	300
Payments for employee taxes withheld from stock awards	(3,528)	(3,228)
Proceeds from borrowings under revolving credit agreement	10,000	0
Repayments of borrowings under revolving credit agreement	(25,000)	0
Changes in other financing activities	(220)	0
Net cash used for financing activities	(36,582)	(21,429)
Effect of currency exchange rate change on cash	(122)	(654)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(24,842)	(5,824)
Balance of cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	114,324	196,696
Balance of cash and cash equivalents at end of period	89,482	190,872
Supplemental cash flow information:
Cash paid for taxes, net of refunds	(1,560)	3,873
Cash paid for interest	5,820	1,551
Non-cash investing and financing activities:
Accrued capital expenditures	2,008	2,714
Accrued dividends	$ 0	$ 18,639

Basis of presentation and summa

Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017
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 next-generation media company that empowers communities to connect, act, and thrive. Gannett owns ReachLocal, Inc. (ReachLocal, a digital marketing solutions company), the USA TODAY NETWORK (made up of USA TODAY (USAT) and 109 local media organizations in 34 states in the U.S. and Guam), and Newsquest (a wholly owned subsidiary with more than 160 local media brands in the U.K.). Gannett delivers high-quality, trusted content where and when consumers want to engage with it on virtually any device or platform. Basis of presentation: Our condensed consolidated financial statements are unaudited; however, in the opinion of management, they contain all of the adjustments (consisting of those of a normal recurring nature) considered necessary to present fairly the financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (U.S. GAAP) applicable to interim periods. All intercompany accounts have been eliminated in consolidation. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 25, 2016 (2016 Form 10-K). 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 financial statements and footnotes thereto. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates and judgments inherent in the preparation of financial statements include accounting amounts for income taxes, pension and other post-employment benefits, allowances for doubtful accounts, equity-based compensation, depreciation and amortization, business combinations, litigation matters, contingencies and the valuation of long-lived and intangible assets. New accounting pronouncements adopted: The following are new accounting pronouncements that we adopted in the first quarter of 2017: Inventory: We early adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) guidance that requires entities using the first-in, first-out inventory costing method to subsequently value inventory at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Net realizable value is defined as the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. The impact of adopting this guidance was not material to our consolidated financial results. Compensation—Retirement Benefits: We early adopted FASB guidance requiring changes to the presentation of net periodic pension and other postretirement benefit costs. Specifically, this guidance requires entities to classify the service cost component of the net benefit cost in the same income statement line item as other employee compensation costs while all other components of net benefit cost must be presented as non-operating items. The guidance further requires such classification changes to be retrospectively applied beginning in the interim period in which the guidance is adopted. As a result of adopting this guidance, our first quarter 2017 other total operating expenses decreased $4.8 million , which impacted cost of sales and operating expenses by $2.9 million and selling, general and administrative expenses by $1.9 million . Similarly, our first quarter 2016 total operating expenses decreased $2.7 million , which impacted cost of sales and operating expenses by $1.7 million and selling, general and administrative expenses by $1.0 million . Net income, retained earnings, and earnings per share for both years remained unchanged. New accounting pronouncements not yet adopted: The following are new accounting pronouncements that we are evaluating for future impacts on our financial position: Revenue from Contracts with Customers : In August 2014, the FASB issued a new revenue standard, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers." which prescribes a single comprehensive model for entities to use in the accounting of revenue arising from contracts with customers. The new guidance will supersede virtually all existing revenue guidance under U.S. GAAP and is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 31, 2017. The core principle contemplated by this new standard is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount reflecting the consideration to which 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. In April and May 2016, the FASB also issued clarifying updates to the new standard specifically to address certain core principles including the identification of performance obligations, licensing guidance, the assessment of the collectability criterion, the presentation of taxes collected from customers, noncash considerations, contract modifications, and completed contracts at transition. We currently anticipate adopting the new revenue recognition standard using the modified retrospective approach in the fiscal year beginning January 1, 2018. This approach consists of recognizing the cumulative effect of initially applying the standard as an adjustment to opening retained earnings. As part of the modified retrospective approach, we will also amend our disclosures to reflect results under "legacy GAAP" for the initial year of adoption. We are currently evaluating the impact that the updated guidance will have on our financial statements and related disclosures. As part of the implementation process, we are holding regular meetings with key stakeholders from across the organization to discuss the impact of the standard on our existing contracts. We are utilizing a bottom-up approach to analyze the impact of the standard on our portfolio of contracts by reviewing our current accounting policies and practices to identify potential differences that would result from applying the requirements of the new standard to our existing revenue contracts. We expect to complete this evaluation prior to the fourth quarter of 2017. Leases: In February 2016, the FASB issued updated guidance modifying 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 the updated guidance and assessing the impact on our consolidated financial statements. Cash and Cash Equivalents, including Statement of Cash Flows and Restricted Cash: In November 2016, the FASB issued updated guidance requiring entities to explain, in their statements of cash flows, the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as "restricted cash" or "restricted cash equivalents." As a result, restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents must now be included within the total of cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning and end of period totals shown on the statement of cash flows. 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 this update and assessing the impact on our consolidated financial statements. Intangibles—Goodwill and Other : In January 2017, the FASB issued new guidance which simplifies the subsequent measurement of goodwill. The guidance permits an entity to perform its goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount and recognizing an impairment charge for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value, with such losses not exceeding the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the provisions of the updated guidance and assessing the impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisitions	NOTE 2 — Acquisitions ReachLocal: In August 2016 , we completed the acquisition of 100% of the outstanding common stock of 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. 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 119,481 Other noncurrent assets 9,852 Total assets acquired 259,572 Current liabilities 63,005 Noncurrent liabilities 20,824 Total liabilities assumed 83,829 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. For the three months ended March 26, 2017 , revenues for ReachLocal were $77.6 million and net loss before taxes was $4.8 million . Assets of North Jersey Media Group: In July 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 . 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. As of the acquisition date, the purchase price was assigned to the acquired assets and assumed liabilities as follows: property, plant, and equipment of $26.0 million , goodwill of $8.3 million , intangible assets of $7.2 million , noncurrent assets of $1.0 million , noncurrent liabilities of $0.3 million , and net working capital loss of $2.9 million . Any goodwill recognized related to the acquisition of NJMG is allocated to the publishing segment. Journal Media Group: In April 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 $2.3 million of the purchase price paid was treated as post-acquisition expense for accounting purposes. We financed the transaction by borrowing $250.0 million under our credit facility as well as with available cash. JMG is a media company with print and digital publishing operations serving 15 U.S. markets in nine 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 allocation of the purchase price is based upon estimated fair values. The determination of the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed has been completed and the final allocation of the purchase price is as follows: In thousands Cash acquired $ 36,825 Other current assets 54,571 Property, plant and equipment 264,357 Intangible assets 42,880 Goodwill 25,258 Other noncurrent assets 3,825 Total assets acquired 427,716 Current liabilities 71,519 Noncurrent liabilities 61,151 Total liabilities assumed 132,670 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 was allocated to the publishing segment. The purchase price allocated to goodwill and mastheads was not deductible for tax purposes. For the three months ended March 26, 2017 , revenues for JMG were $101.8 million and net income before taxes was $3.7 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 2016: Three months ended In thousands; unaudited Mar. 27, 2016 Total revenues $ 872,677 Net income $ 26,816 Earnings per share - diluted $ 0.23 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 from 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.

Restructuring activities

Restructuring activities	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring activities and asset impairment charges	NOTE 3 — Restructuring activities and asset impairment charges Over the past several years, we have engaged in a series of individual restructuring programs, designed to right size our employee base, consolidate facilities and improve operations, including those of recently acquired entities. Severance-related expenses: We recorded severance-related expenses of $8.7 million in costs of sales and operating expenses and $3.2 million in selling, general, and administrative expenses for the three months ended March 26, 2017 . Of these expenses, $10.4 million related to the Publishing segment and $1.5 million related to corporate and other. We recorded severance-related expenses of $3.0 million in costs of sales and operating expenses and $0.7 million in selling, general, and administrative expenses during the three months ended March 27, 2016 . These expenses all related to the Publishing segment. The activity and balance of the severance-related liabilities are as follows: In thousands Severance Activities Balance at Dec. 25, 2016 $ 18,651 Expense 11,850 Payments (17,391 ) Adjustments — Balance at Mar. 26, 2017 $ 13,110 Facility consolidation and impairment charges: Facility consolidation and other cost savings plans led us to recognize asset impairment charges, shutdown costs, and charges associated with revising the useful lives of certain assets over a shortened period. As part of our plans, we are selling certain assets which we have classified as held-for-sale and reduced the carrying values to equal the fair values less costs to dispose. We recorded pre-tax charges for facility consolidations and asset impairments of $4.5 million and $0.5 million for the three months ended March 26, 2017 and March 27, 2016 , respectively. In addition, we incurred accelerated depreciation of $9.8 million for the three months ended March 26, 2017 , which is included in depreciation expense. No accelerated deprecation was incurred for the three months ended March 27, 2016 . These expenses all related to the Publishing segment.

Revolving credit facility

Revolving credit facility	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Revolving credit facility	NOTE 4 — Revolving credit facility We maintain a 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, in each case as of the last day of the test period consisting of the last four consecutive fiscal quarters. We were in compliance with all financial covenants under the Credit Facility as of March 26, 2017 . 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 March 26, 2017 . As of March 26, 2017 , we had $385.0 million in outstanding borrowings under the Credit Facility and $12.1 million of letters of credit outstanding, leaving $102.9 million of availability remaining.

Pensions and other postretireme

Pensions and other postretirement benefit plans	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Pensions and other postretirement benefit plans	NOTE 5 — Pensions and other postretirement benefit plans We, along with our subsidiaries, have various defined benefit retirement plans, including plans established under collective bargaining agreements. Our retirement plans include the Gannett Retirement Plan (GRP), Newsquest and Romanes Pension Schemes in the U.K. (Newsquest Plans) and other defined benefit contribution plans. We also provide health care and life insurance benefits to certain retired employees who meet age and service requirements. Retirement plan costs include the following components: In thousands Three months ended Mar. 26, 2017 Mar. 27, 2016 Pension Postretirement Pension Postretirement Operating expenses: Service cost-benefits earned during the period $ 820 $ 52 $ 901 $ 63 Non-operating expenses: Interest cost on benefit obligation 27,779 941 32,431 987 Expected return on plan assets (42,417 ) — (46,480 ) — Amortization of prior service cost 1,660 (908 ) 1,644 (1,250 ) Amortization of actuarial loss 17,620 125 15,162 250 Total non-operating expenses (credit) 4,642 158 2,757 (13 ) Total expense for retirement plans $ 5,462 $ 210 $ 3,658 $ 50 Pursuant to our adoption of new guidance surrounding the presentation of net periodic benefit costs as discussed in Note 1 — Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies , net periodic benefit costs other than service costs are now included in the Other non-operating items, net line in the unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income. During the three months ended March 26, 2017 , we contributed $6.3 million to our pension plans. We expect to contribute approximately $25.0 million to the GRP in each of the fiscal years 2017 through 2020 and $15.0 million in 2021.

Income taxes

Income taxes	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income taxes	NOTE 6 — Income taxes Our reported effective income tax rate on pre-tax loss was 69.8% for the three months ended March 26, 2017 , compared to 10.8% on pre-tax income for the three months ended March 27, 2016 . The tax rate for the three months ended March 26, 2017 was higher than the comparable rate in 2016 due to a shift from a pretax income position as of the first quarter of 2016 to a pretax loss position as of first quarter of 2017 . In the case of a pretax loss, favorable permanent differences such as excess stock compensation and a favorable audit settlement that resulted in the release of tax reserves have the effect of increasing the tax benefit which, in turn, increases the effective tax rate. Our quarterly effective rate is calculated in part based on the full year forecasted income, over 50% of which is expected to be generated in foreign jurisdictions where the income tax rate is lower than in the U.S. This is similar to full year 2016, where the ratio of income earned in foreign jurisdictions to domestic income was higher than in 2014 and 2015. The lower domestic income is attributable to higher expenses domestically for corporate expenses related to public company costs, restructuring charges and asset impairments as compared with foreign jurisdictions. The recent changes in the mix of income generated from lower tax rate foreign jurisdictions relative to U.S. domestic income have had the effect of decreasing our tax expense and our effective tax rate. The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate was approximately $13.9 million as of March 26, 2017 and $17.3 million as of December 25, 2016 . The amount of accrued interest and penalties payable related to unrecognized tax benefits was $0.8 million as of March 26, 2017 and $3.8 million as of December 25, 2016 . 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 $2.2 million within the next 12 months primarily due to lapses of statutes of limitations and settlements of ongoing audits in various jurisdictions.

Supplemental equity information

Supplemental equity information	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017
Equity [Abstract]
Supplemental equity information	NOTE 7 — Supplemental equity information The following table summarizes equity account activity: In thousands Three months ended Mar. 26, 2017 Mar. 27, 2016 Balance at beginning of period $ 856,761 $ 1,058,576 Comprehensive income: Net income (2,079 ) 39,596 Other comprehensive income 12,341 4,174 Total comprehensive income 10,262 43,770 Dividends declared (18,177 ) (18,639 ) Stock-based compensation 5,125 5,145 Other activity (3,434 ) 1,746 Balance at end of period $ 850,537 $ 1,090,598 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. 25, 2016 $ (1,183,196 ) $ 300,284 $ (882,912 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (5,385 ) 5,828 443 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 11,898 — 11,898 Other comprehensive income (loss) 6,513 5,828 12,341 Balance at Mar. 26, 2017 $ (1,176,683 ) $ 306,112 $ (870,571 ) Balance at Dec. 27, 2015 $ (1,058,234 ) $ 384,810 $ (673,424 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 17,047 (23,049 ) (6,002 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 10,176 — 10,176 Other comprehensive income (loss) 27,223 (23,049 ) 4,174 Balance at Mar. 27, 2016 $ (1,031,011 ) $ 361,761 $ (669,250 ) Accumulated other comprehensive loss components are included in computing net periodic postretirement costs as outlined in Note 5 — Pensions and other postretirement benefit plans . Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive loss related to these postretirement plans include the following: In thousands Three months ended Mar. 26, 2017 Mar. 27, 2016 Amortization of prior service credit, net $ 752 $ 394 Amortization of actuarial loss 17,745 15,412 Total reclassifications, before tax 18,497 15,806 Income tax effect (6,599 ) (5,630 ) Total reclassifications, net of tax $ 11,898 $ 10,176

Fair value measurement

Fair value measurement	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value measurement	NOTE 8 — Fair value measurement We measure and record certain assets and liabilities at fair value. A fair value measurement is determined based on market assumptions that a market participant would use in pricing an asset or liability. A three-tiered hierarchy draws distinctions between market participant assumptions based on (i) observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets (Level 1), (ii) inputs other than quoted active markets that are observable either directly or indirectly (Level 2) and (iii) unobservable inputs that require use of our own estimates and assumptions through present value and other valuation techniques in determination of fair value (Level 3). As of March 26, 2017 and December 25, 2016 , assets and liabilities measured or disclosed at fair value 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 totaled $15.2 million as of March 26, 2017 and $4.5 million as of December 25, 2016 .

Commitments, contingencies and

Commitments, contingencies and other matters	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments, contingencies and other matters	NOTE 9 — Commitments, contingencies and other matters Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) litigation: In January 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). The suit claims various violations of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (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 claims raised. The settlements are reflected in our financial statements as of March 26, 2017 and were not material to our results of operations, financial position, or cash flows. Environmental contingency: In 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. In 2015, the Advertiser and other members of the Downtown Environmental Alliance reached a settlement with the U.S. EPA regarding the costs the U.S. EPA spent to investigate the site. U.S. EPA has transferred responsibility for oversight of the site to the Alabama Department of Environmental Management, which has approved the work plan for the additional site investigation that is currently underway. The Advertiser's final costs cannot be determined until the investigation is complete, a determination is made on whether any remediation is necessary, 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	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings (loss) per share	NOTE 10 — Earnings (loss) per share The following table is a reconciliation of weighted average number of shares outstanding used to compute basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share (EPS): In thousands, except per share data Three months ended Mar. 26, 2017 Mar. 27, 2016 Net income (loss) $ (2,079 ) $ 39,596 Weighted average number of shares outstanding - basic 113,495 116,311 Effect of dilutive securities Restricted stock units — 1,430 Performance share units — 1,028 Stock options — 290 Weighted average number of shares outstanding - diluted 113,495 119,059 Earnings (loss) per share - basic $ (0.02 ) $ 0.34 Earnings (loss) per share - diluted $ (0.02 ) $ 0.33 For the three months ended March 26, 2017 , all outstanding common stock equivalents were excluded from the computation of diluted loss per share because their effect would have been anti-dilutive due to the net loss for the period. Approximately 125,000 shares were excluded from the computation of diluted EPS for the three months ended March 27, 2016 because their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive under the treasury stock method. On February 22, 2017, we declared a dividend of $0.16 per share of common stock, payable on March 24, 2017, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on March 10, 2017.

Segment reporting

Segment reporting	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment reporting	NOTE 11 — 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. We classify our operations into two reportable segments as follows: • 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 consisting of both print and digital advertising, 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. The publishing reportable segment is an aggregation of two operating segments: Domestic Publishing and the U.K. • ReachLocal, which consists exclusively of our ReachLocal digital marketing solutions subsidiaries. The results of this segment include advertising revenues from our search and display services and other revenues related to web presence and software solutions provided by ReachLocal. In addition to the above operating segments, we have a corporate and other 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 non-GAAP financial performance measure we believe offers a useful view of the overall operation of our businesses. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income before (1) income taxes, (2) interest expense, (3) equity income, (4) other non-operating items, (5) severance-related charges, (6) acquisition-related expenses (including integration expenses), (7) facility consolidation and asset impairment charges, (8) other items (including certain business transformation costs, litigation expenses and multi-employer pension withdrawals), (9) depreciation, and (10) amortization. When adjusted EBITDA is discussed in this report, the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure is net income. 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 a non-GAAP measure and may be different than similarly-titled non-GAAP financial measures used by other companies. The following table presents our segment information: In thousands Publishing ReachLocal Corporate and Other Consolidated Three months ended Mar. 26, 2017 Advertising $ 365,085 $ 70,482 $ (52 ) $ 435,515 Circulation 283,286 — — 283,286 Other 46,553 7,083 1,020 54,656 Total revenues $ 694,924 $ 77,565 $ 968 $ 773,457 Adjusted EBITDA $ 91,664 $ 3,146 $ (25,129 ) $ 69,681 Three months ended Mar. 27, 2016 Advertising $ 351,221 $ — $ — $ 351,221 Circulation 262,703 — — 262,703 Other 44,055 — 1,389 45,444 Total revenues $ 657,979 $ — $ 1,389 $ 659,368 Adjusted EBITDA $ 97,521 $ — $ (17,150 ) $ 80,371 Pursuant to our adoption of new guidance surrounding the presentation of net periodic benefit costs as discussed in Note 1 — Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies , net periodic benefit costs other than service costs are now included in the "Other non-operating items, net" line in the unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income. As a result of adopting this guidance, the first quarter of 2017 adjusted EBITDA increased $4.8 million . Similarly, the first quarter 2016 adjusted EBITDA increased $2.7 million . We changed certain corporate allocations at beginning of fiscal year 2017 and retrospectively applied that change. The following table presents our reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net income: In thousands Three months ended Mar. 26, 2017 Mar. 27, 2016 Net income (loss) (GAAP basis) $ (2,079 ) $ 39,596 Provision (benefit) for income taxes (5,030 ) 4,781 Interest expense 4,255 1,855 Other non-operating items, net 3,887 3,971 Operating income (loss) (GAAP basis) 1,033 50,203 Severance-related charges 11,850 3,696 Acquisition-related expenses 1,023 1,851 Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges 4,479 544 Other Items 4,479 (1,200 ) Depreciation 39,451 23,959 Amortization 7,366 1,318 Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP basis) $ 69,681 $ 80,371 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.

Subsequent events

Subsequent events	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent events	NOTE 12 — Subsequent events SweetIQ acquisition: On April 20, 2017, we completed the acquisition of SweetIQ Analytics Corp. (SweetIQ) for approximately $31.5 million . The company delivers software for multi-location brands, marketing agencies, and SMB resellers, enabling them to launch and execute marketing campaigns to convert online searches to in-store foot traffic. It is not practicable to disclose the preliminary purchase price allocation for this transaction given the short period of time between the acquisition date and the issuance of this report.

Basis of presentation and sum19

Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies (Policies)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of presentation: Our condensed consolidated financial statements are unaudited; however, in the opinion of management, they contain all of the adjustments (consisting of those of a normal recurring nature) considered necessary to present fairly the financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (U.S. GAAP) applicable to interim periods. All intercompany accounts have been eliminated in consolidation. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 25, 2016 (2016 Form 10-K).
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 financial statements and footnotes thereto. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates and judgments inherent in the preparation of financial statements include accounting amounts for income taxes, pension and other post-employment benefits, allowances for doubtful accounts, equity-based compensation, depreciation and amortization, business combinations, litigation matters, contingencies and the valuation of long-lived and intangible assets.
Recent Accounting Standards	New accounting pronouncements adopted: The following are new accounting pronouncements that we adopted in the first quarter of 2017: Inventory: We early adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) guidance that requires entities using the first-in, first-out inventory costing method to subsequently value inventory at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Net realizable value is defined as the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. The impact of adopting this guidance was not material to our consolidated financial results. Compensation—Retirement Benefits: We early adopted FASB guidance requiring changes to the presentation of net periodic pension and other postretirement benefit costs. Specifically, this guidance requires entities to classify the service cost component of the net benefit cost in the same income statement line item as other employee compensation costs while all other components of net benefit cost must be presented as non-operating items. The guidance further requires such classification changes to be retrospectively applied beginning in the interim period in which the guidance is adopted. As a result of adopting this guidance, our first quarter 2017 other total operating expenses decreased $4.8 million , which impacted cost of sales and operating expenses by $2.9 million and selling, general and administrative expenses by $1.9 million . Similarly, our first quarter 2016 total operating expenses decreased $2.7 million , which impacted cost of sales and operating expenses by $1.7 million and selling, general and administrative expenses by $1.0 million . Net income, retained earnings, and earnings per share for both years remained unchanged. New accounting pronouncements not yet adopted: The following are new accounting pronouncements that we are evaluating for future impacts on our financial position: Revenue from Contracts with Customers : In August 2014, the FASB issued a new revenue standard, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers." which prescribes a single comprehensive model for entities to use in the accounting of revenue arising from contracts with customers. The new guidance will supersede virtually all existing revenue guidance under U.S. GAAP and is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 31, 2017. The core principle contemplated by this new standard is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount reflecting the consideration to which 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. In April and May 2016, the FASB also issued clarifying updates to the new standard specifically to address certain core principles including the identification of performance obligations, licensing guidance, the assessment of the collectability criterion, the presentation of taxes collected from customers, noncash considerations, contract modifications, and completed contracts at transition. We currently anticipate adopting the new revenue recognition standard using the modified retrospective approach in the fiscal year beginning January 1, 2018. This approach consists of recognizing the cumulative effect of initially applying the standard as an adjustment to opening retained earnings. As part of the modified retrospective approach, we will also amend our disclosures to reflect results under "legacy GAAP" for the initial year of adoption. We are currently evaluating the impact that the updated guidance will have on our financial statements and related disclosures. As part of the implementation process, we are holding regular meetings with key stakeholders from across the organization to discuss the impact of the standard on our existing contracts. We are utilizing a bottom-up approach to analyze the impact of the standard on our portfolio of contracts by reviewing our current accounting policies and practices to identify potential differences that would result from applying the requirements of the new standard to our existing revenue contracts. We expect to complete this evaluation prior to the fourth quarter of 2017. Leases: In February 2016, the FASB issued updated guidance modifying 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 the updated guidance and assessing the impact on our consolidated financial statements. Cash and Cash Equivalents, including Statement of Cash Flows and Restricted Cash: In November 2016, the FASB issued updated guidance requiring entities to explain, in their statements of cash flows, the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as "restricted cash" or "restricted cash equivalents." As a result, restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents must now be included within the total of cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning and end of period totals shown on the statement of cash flows. 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 this update and assessing the impact on our consolidated financial statements. Intangibles—Goodwill and Other : In January 2017, the FASB issued new guidance which simplifies the subsequent measurement of goodwill. The guidance permits an entity to perform its goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount and recognizing an impairment charge for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value, with such losses not exceeding the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the provisions of the updated guidance and assessing the impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Acquisitions (Tables)

Acquisitions (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The determination of the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed has been completed and the final allocation of the purchase price is as follows: In thousands Cash acquired $ 36,825 Other current assets 54,571 Property, plant and equipment 264,357 Intangible assets 42,880 Goodwill 25,258 Other noncurrent assets 3,825 Total assets acquired 427,716 Current liabilities 71,519 Noncurrent liabilities 61,151 Total liabilities assumed 132,670 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 119,481 Other noncurrent assets 9,852 Total assets acquired 259,572 Current liabilities 63,005 Noncurrent liabilities 20,824 Total liabilities assumed 83,829 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 2016: Three months ended In thousands; unaudited Mar. 27, 2016 Total revenues $ 872,677 Net income $ 26,816 Earnings per share - diluted $ 0.23

Restructuring activities and as

Restructuring activities and asset impairment charges (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring and Related Costs	The activity and balance of the severance-related liabilities are as follows: In thousands Severance Activities Balance at Dec. 25, 2016 $ 18,651 Expense 11,850 Payments (17,391 ) Adjustments — Balance at Mar. 26, 2017 $ 13,110

Pensions and other postretire22

Pensions and other postretirement benefit plans (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Benefit costs	Retirement plan costs include the following components: In thousands Three months ended Mar. 26, 2017 Mar. 27, 2016 Pension Postretirement Pension Postretirement Operating expenses: Service cost-benefits earned during the period $ 820 $ 52 $ 901 $ 63 Non-operating expenses: Interest cost on benefit obligation 27,779 941 32,431 987 Expected return on plan assets (42,417 ) — (46,480 ) — Amortization of prior service cost 1,660 (908 ) 1,644 (1,250 ) Amortization of actuarial loss 17,620 125 15,162 250 Total non-operating expenses (credit) 4,642 158 2,757 (13 ) Total expense for retirement plans $ 5,462 $ 210 $ 3,658 $ 50

Supplemental equity informati23

Supplemental equity information (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017
Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Equity	The following table summarizes equity account activity: In thousands Three months ended Mar. 26, 2017 Mar. 27, 2016 Balance at beginning of period $ 856,761 $ 1,058,576 Comprehensive income: Net income (2,079 ) 39,596 Other comprehensive income 12,341 4,174 Total comprehensive income 10,262 43,770 Dividends declared (18,177 ) (18,639 ) Stock-based compensation 5,125 5,145 Other activity (3,434 ) 1,746 Balance at end of period $ 850,537 $ 1,090,598
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. 25, 2016 $ (1,183,196 ) $ 300,284 $ (882,912 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (5,385 ) 5,828 443 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 11,898 — 11,898 Other comprehensive income (loss) 6,513 5,828 12,341 Balance at Mar. 26, 2017 $ (1,176,683 ) $ 306,112 $ (870,571 ) Balance at Dec. 27, 2015 $ (1,058,234 ) $ 384,810 $ (673,424 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 17,047 (23,049 ) (6,002 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 10,176 — 10,176 Other comprehensive income (loss) 27,223 (23,049 ) 4,174 Balance at Mar. 27, 2016 $ (1,031,011 ) $ 361,761 $ (669,250 )
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 Mar. 26, 2017 Mar. 27, 2016 Amortization of prior service credit, net $ 752 $ 394 Amortization of actuarial loss 17,745 15,412 Total reclassifications, before tax 18,497 15,806 Income tax effect (6,599 ) (5,630 ) Total reclassifications, net of tax $ 11,898 $ 10,176

Earnings (loss) per share (Tabl

Earnings (loss) per share (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted	The following table is a reconciliation of weighted average number of shares outstanding used to compute basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share (EPS): In thousands, except per share data Three months ended Mar. 26, 2017 Mar. 27, 2016 Net income (loss) $ (2,079 ) $ 39,596 Weighted average number of shares outstanding - basic 113,495 116,311 Effect of dilutive securities Restricted stock units — 1,430 Performance share units — 1,028 Stock options — 290 Weighted average number of shares outstanding - diluted 113,495 119,059 Earnings (loss) per share - basic $ (0.02 ) $ 0.34 Earnings (loss) per share - diluted $ (0.02 ) $ 0.33

Segment reporting (Tables)

Segment reporting (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment	The following table presents our segment information: In thousands Publishing ReachLocal Corporate and Other Consolidated Three months ended Mar. 26, 2017 Advertising $ 365,085 $ 70,482 $ (52 ) $ 435,515 Circulation 283,286 — — 283,286 Other 46,553 7,083 1,020 54,656 Total revenues $ 694,924 $ 77,565 $ 968 $ 773,457 Adjusted EBITDA $ 91,664 $ 3,146 $ (25,129 ) $ 69,681 Three months ended Mar. 27, 2016 Advertising $ 351,221 $ — $ — $ 351,221 Circulation 262,703 — — 262,703 Other 44,055 — 1,389 45,444 Total revenues $ 657,979 $ — $ 1,389 $ 659,368 Adjusted EBITDA $ 97,521 $ — $ (17,150 ) $ 80,371 Pursuant to our adoption of new guidance surrounding the presentation of net periodic benefit costs as discussed in Note 1 — Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies , net periodic benefit costs other than service costs are now included in the "Other non-operating items, net" line in the unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income. As a result of adopting this guidance, the first quarter of 2017 adjusted EBITDA increased $4.8 million . Similarly, the first quarter 2016 adjusted EBITDA increased $2.7 million . We changed certain corporate allocations at beginning of fiscal year 2017 and retrospectively applied that change. The following table presents our reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net income: In thousands Three months ended Mar. 26, 2017 Mar. 27, 2016 Net income (loss) (GAAP basis) $ (2,079 ) $ 39,596 Provision (benefit) for income taxes (5,030 ) 4,781 Interest expense 4,255 1,855 Other non-operating items, net 3,887 3,971 Operating income (loss) (GAAP basis) 1,033 50,203 Severance-related charges 11,850 3,696 Acquisition-related expenses 1,023 1,851 Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges 4,479 544 Other Items 4,479 (1,200 ) Depreciation 39,451 23,959 Amortization 7,366 1,318 Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP basis) $ 69,681 $ 80,371

Basis of presentation and sum26

Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017USD ($)brandorganizationstate	Mar. 27, 2016USD ($)
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Total operating expenses	$ 772,424	$ 609,165
Cost of sales and operating expenses	508,423	417,956
Selling, general and administrative expenses	$ 212,705	165,388
U.S. [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of media organizations | organization	109
Number of states in which entity operates | state	34
U.K. [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of media brands, more than | brand	160
Accounting Standards Update 2017-06 | New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Total operating expenses	$ (4,800)	(2,700)
Cost of sales and operating expenses	(2,900)	(1,700)
Selling, general and administrative expenses	$ (1,900)	$ (1,000)

Acquisitions - Narrative (Detai

Acquisitions - Narrative (Details) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended			3 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2016USD ($)	Jul. 31, 2016USD ($)	Apr. 30, 2016USD ($)marketstate	Mar. 26, 2017USD ($)	Mar. 27, 2016USD ($)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Borrowings under credit facility				$ 10,000	$ 0
ReachLocal, Inc. [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Interest acquired (as a percent)	100.00%
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired	$ 162,500
Revenue since acquisition date				77,600
Operating losses since acquisition date				(4,800)
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
Revenue since acquisition date				101,800
Operating losses since acquisition date				$ 3,700
Non-cash consideration			$ 2,300
Number of domestic markets print and digital publishing combined operations serve | market			15
Number of states in which entity operates | state			9
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	Mar. 26, 2017	Dec. 25, 2016	Aug. 31, 2016	Jul. 31, 2016	Apr. 30, 2016
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 701,564	$ 698,288
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			119,481
Other noncurrent assets			9,852
Total assets acquired			259,572
Current liabilities			63,005
Noncurrent liabilities			20,824
Total liabilities assumed			83,829
Net assets acquired			$ 175,743
North Jersey Media Group, Inc. [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment				$ 26,000
Intangible assets				7,200
Goodwill				8,300
Other noncurrent assets				1,000
Noncurrent liabilities				300
Net working capital				$ 2,900
Journal Media Group, Inc. [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash acquired					$ 36,825
Other current assets					54,571
Property, plant and equipment					264,357
Intangible assets					42,880
Goodwill					25,258
Other noncurrent assets					3,825
Total assets acquired					427,716
Current liabilities					71,519
Noncurrent liabilities					61,151
Total liabilities assumed					132,670
Net assets acquired					$ 295,046

Acquisitions - Pro Forma Inform

Acquisitions - Pro Forma Information (Details) - Journal Media Group, Inc. [Member] $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017USD ($)$ / shares
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total revenues	$ 872,677
Net income	$ 26,816
Earnings per share - diluted (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 0.23

Restructuring activities and 30

Restructuring activities and asset impairment charges - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017	Mar. 27, 2016
Severance [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	$ 11,850,000
Facility Closing [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Asset impairment and other charges, pre-tax amount	4,500,000	$ 500,000
Accelerated depreciation	9,800,000	0
Cost of Sales [Member] | Severance [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	8,700,000	3,000,000
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] | Severance [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	3,200,000	$ 700,000
Corporate [Member] | Severance [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	1,500,000
Publishing [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | Severance [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	$ 10,400,000

Restructuring activities and 31

Restructuring activities and asset impairment charges - Restructuring Reserve (Details) - Severance [Member] $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017USD ($)
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 18,651
Expense	11,850
Payments	(17,391)
Adjustments	0
Ending balance	$ 13,110

Revolving credit facility - Nar

Revolving credit facility - Narrative (Details) - Line of Credit [Member]	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017USD ($)
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Outstanding amount	$ 385,000,000
Remaining borrowing capacity	102,900,000
Letter of Credit [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	50,000,000
Outstanding amount	12,100,000
Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
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] | 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] | 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] | 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] | 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] | 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] | 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] | 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] | Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis point spread on variable rate (as a percent)	1.50%

Pensions and other postretire33

Pensions and other postretirement benefit plans - Retirement Plan Costs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017	Mar. 27, 2016
Pension Plans [Member]
Company's pension costs
Total expense for retirement plans	$ 5,462	$ 3,658
Post-retirement Benefits Other Than Pension [Member]
Company's pension costs
Total expense for retirement plans	210	50
Operating Expense [Member] | Pension Plans [Member]
Company's pension costs
Service cost-benefits earned during the period	820	901
Operating Expense [Member] | Post-retirement Benefits Other Than Pension [Member]
Company's pension costs
Service cost-benefits earned during the period	52	63
Non-Operating Expense (Credit) [Member] | Pension Plans [Member]
Company's pension costs
Interest cost on benefit obligation	27,779	32,431
Expected return on plan assets	(42,417)	(46,480)
Amortization of prior service cost	1,660	1,644
Amortization of actuarial loss	17,620	15,162
Total expense for retirement plans	4,642	2,757
Non-Operating Expense (Credit) [Member] | Post-retirement Benefits Other Than Pension [Member]
Company's pension costs
Interest cost on benefit obligation	941	987
Expected return on plan assets	0	0
Amortization of prior service cost	(908)	(1,250)
Amortization of actuarial loss	125	250
Total expense for retirement plans	$ 158	$ (13)

Pensions and other postretire34

Pensions and other postretirement benefit plans - Narrative (Details) - Pension Plans [Member] $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017USD ($)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Contribution to the defined benefit plans	$ 6.3
Gannett Retirement Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated future employer contributions remainder of 2017	25
Estimated future employer contributions in 2018	25
Estimated future employer contributions in 2019	25
Estimated future employer contributions in 2020	25
Estimated future employer contributions in 2021	$ 15

Income taxes - Narrative (Detai

Income taxes - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017	Mar. 27, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 25, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Effective income tax rate (as a percent)	69.80%	10.80%
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate	$ 13.9			$ 17.3
Accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits	0.8			$ 3.8
Estimated decrease in gross unrecognized tax positions within the next 12 months, maximum	$ 2.2
Forecast | Foreign | Revenue | Geographic Concentration Risk
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration percentage (over 50%)			50.00%

Supplemental equity informati36

Supplemental equity information - Equity Activity (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017	Mar. 27, 2016
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	$ 856,761	$ 1,058,576
Comprehensive income:
Net income (loss)	(2,079)	39,596
Other comprehensive income	12,341	4,174
Comprehensive income (loss)	10,262	43,770
Dividends declared	(18,177)	(18,639)
Stock-based compensation	5,125	5,145
Other activity	(3,434)	1,746
Ending Balance	$ 850,537	$ 1,090,598

Supplemental equity informati37

Supplemental equity information - Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017	Mar. 27, 2016
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	$ 856,761	$ 1,058,576
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	12,341	4,174
Ending Balance	850,537	1,090,598
Retirement Plans [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	(1,183,196)	(1,058,234)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(5,385)	17,047
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	11,898	10,176
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	6,513	27,223
Ending Balance	(1,176,683)	(1,031,011)
Foreign Currency Translation [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	300,284	384,810
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	5,828	(23,049)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	0	0
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	5,828	(23,049)
Ending Balance	306,112	361,761
Total [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	(882,912)	(673,424)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	443	(6,002)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	11,898	10,176
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	12,341	4,174
Ending Balance	$ (870,571)	$ (669,250)

Supplemental equity informati38

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
	Mar. 26, 2017	Mar. 27, 2016
Net Prior Service Credit [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Total reclassifications, before tax	$ 752	$ 394
Actuarial Loss [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Total reclassifications, before tax	17,745	15,412
Retirement Plans [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Total reclassifications, before tax	18,497	15,806
Income tax effect	(6,599)	(5,630)
Total reclassifications, net of tax	$ 11,898	$ 10,176

Fair value measurement - Narrat

Fair value measurement - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 26, 2017	Dec. 25, 2016
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	$ 15.2	$ 4.5

Commitments, contingencies an40

Commitments, contingencies and other matters - Narrative (Details)	1 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 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 ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Feb. 22, 2017	Mar. 26, 2017	Mar. 27, 2016
Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Net income (loss)		$ (2,079)	$ 39,596
Weighted average number of shares outstanding - basic		113,495	116,311
Effect of dilutive securities
Weighted average number of shares outstanding - diluted		113,495	119,059
Earnings (loss) per share – basic (in dollars per share)		$ (0.02)	$ 0.34
Earnings (loss) per share – diluted (in dollars per share)		$ (0.02)	$ 0.33
Anti-dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share (in shares)			125
Dividend declared per common share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.16
Restricted stock units [Member]
Effect of dilutive securities
Effect of dilutive securities (in shares)		0	1,430
Performance share units [Member]
Effect of dilutive securities
Effect of dilutive securities (in shares)		0	1,028
Stock options [Member]
Effect of dilutive securities
Effect of dilutive securities (in shares)		0	290

Segment reporting (Details)

Segment reporting (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017	Mar. 27, 2016
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Advertising	$ 435,515	$ 351,221
Circulation	283,286	262,703
Other	54,656	45,444
Total operating revenues	773,457	659,368
Adjusted EBITDA	69,681	80,371
Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Advertising	435,515	351,221
Circulation	283,286	262,703
Other	54,656	45,444
Total operating revenues	773,457	659,368
Adjusted EBITDA	69,681	80,371
Operating Segments [Member] | Publishing [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Advertising	365,085	351,221
Circulation	283,286	262,703
Other	46,553	44,055
Total operating revenues	694,924	657,979
Adjusted EBITDA	91,664	97,521
Operating Segments [Member] | ReachLocal [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Advertising	70,482	0
Circulation	0	0
Other	7,083	0
Total operating revenues	77,565	0
Adjusted EBITDA	3,146	0
Corporate [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Advertising	(52)	0
Circulation	0	0
Other	1,020	1,389
Total operating revenues	968	1,389
Adjusted EBITDA	$ (25,129)	$ (17,150)

Segment reporting - Reconciliat

Segment reporting - Reconciliation of EBITDA to Operating Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017	Mar. 27, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ (2,079)	$ 39,596
Provision (benefit) for income taxes	(5,030)	4,781
Interest expense	4,255	1,855
Other non-operating items, net	3,887	3,971
Operating income	1,033	50,203
Severance-related charges	11,850	3,696
Acquisition-related expenses	1,023	1,851
Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges	4,479	544
Other Items	4,479	(1,200)
Depreciation	39,451	23,959
Amortization	7,366	1,318
Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP basis)	$ 69,681	$ 80,371

Segment reporting - Narrative (

Segment reporting - Narrative (Details) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 26, 2017USD ($)segment	Mar. 27, 2016USD ($)
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of reportable segments	2
Accounting Standards Update 2017-06 | New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Decrease to net periodic benefit costs | $	$ 4.8	$ 2.7
Publishing [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of operating segments	2

Subsequent events - Narrative (

Subsequent events - Narrative (Details) $ in Millions	Apr. 20, 2017USD ($)
SweetIQ Analytics Corp. [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired	$ 31.5