Gannett 10-Q 9 Aug 18 2018 Q2 Quarterly report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - shares	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Aug. 03, 2018
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	Jun. 30, 2018
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,018
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q2
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock Shares Outstanding		112,994,568
Trading Symbol	GCI

Condensed Consolidated Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 209,678	$ 120,589
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $10,525 and $11,588	314,198	352,546
Other current assets	132,825	116,713
Total current assets	656,701	589,848
Property, plant and equipment, at cost net of accumulated depreciation of $1,397,861 and $1,429,515	854,830	933,334
Goodwill	732,452	737,716
Intangible assets, net	122,780	139,654
Deferred income taxes	68,530	102,492
Pension assets	60,039	2,103
Investments and other assets	56,019	64,830
Total assets	2,551,351	2,569,977
Current liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	366,862	387,406
Deferred income	128,364	122,791
Other current liabilities	42,574	0
Total current liabilities	537,800	510,197
Postretirement medical and life insurance liabilities	82,092	83,344
Pension liabilities	281,864	421,876
Long-term portion of revolving credit facility	170,000	355,000
Convertible debt	166,776	0
Other noncurrent liabilities	178,419	182,165
Total liabilities	1,416,951	1,552,582
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, 118,722,313 shares issued at June 30, 2018 and 117,547,116 shares issued at December 31, 2017	1,187	1,175
Treasury stock at cost, 5,750,000 shares at June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017	(50,046)	(50,046)
Additional paid-in capital	1,812,537	1,786,941
Retained earnings (deficit)	(84,359)	(64,158)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(544,919)	(656,517)
Total equity	1,134,400	1,017,395
Total liabilities and equity	$ 2,551,351	$ 2,569,977

Condensed Consolidated Balance3

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable	$ 10,525	$ 11,588
Accumulated depreciation	$ 1,397,861	$ 1,429,515
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	118,722,313	117,547,116
Treasury stock, shares	5,750,000	5,750,000

Condensed Consolidated Statemen

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017
Operating revenues:
Total revenues	$ 730,768	$ 774,507	$ 1,453,719	$ 1,547,964
Total operating revenues	730,768	774,507	1,453,719	1,547,964
Operating expenses:
Cost of sales and operating expenses	452,053	480,926	909,037	980,644
Selling, general and administrative expenses	199,143	206,681	412,142	416,241
Depreciation and amortization	38,378	51,850	78,630	98,667
Restructuring costs	12,611	9,827	21,910	22,378
Asset impairment charges	10,483	14,719	14,239	18,497
Total operating expenses	712,668	764,003	1,435,958	1,536,427
Operating income	18,100	10,504	17,761	11,537
Non-operating expenses:
Interest expense	(5,935)	(3,454)	(10,413)	(7,709)
Other non-operating items, net	4,042	(5,301)	8,353	(9,188)
Total non-operating expenses	(1,893)	(8,755)	(2,060)	(16,897)
Income (loss) before income taxes	16,207	1,749	15,701	(5,360)
Provision (benefit) for income taxes	(99)	2,236	(228)	(2,794)
Net income (loss)	$ 16,306	$ (487)	$ 15,929	$ (2,566)
Earnings (loss) per share – basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.14	$ 0	$ 0.14	$ (0.02)
Earnings (loss) per share – diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.14	$ 0	$ 0.14	$ (0.02)
Advertising and marketing services
Operating revenues:
Total revenues	$ 420,163	$ 454,107	$ 830,475	$ 896,588
Circulation
Operating revenues:
Total revenues	263,806	273,676	530,392	556,962
Other
Operating revenues:
Total revenues	$ 46,799	$ 46,724	$ 92,852	$ 94,414

Condensed Consolidated Stateme5

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 16,306	$ (487)	$ 15,929	$ (2,566)
Other comprehensive income, before tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(33,310)	8,129	(13,936)	13,957
Prior service costs:
Change in prior service costs	103,416	0	103,416	0
Amortization of prior service credit, net	(401)	759	(805)	1,511
Actuarial gain (loss):
Actuarial gain (loss) arising during the period	13,240	(500)	13,240	(500)
Amortization of actuarial loss	16,877	18,478	32,353	36,223
Other	20,196	(8,577)	6,779	(15,225)
Pension and other postretirement benefit items	153,328	10,160	154,983	22,009
Other comprehensive income, before tax	120,018	18,289	141,047	35,966
Income tax effect related to components of other comprehensive income	(28,295)	(5,044)	(29,449)	(10,380)
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	91,723	13,245	111,598	25,586
Comprehensive income	$ 108,029	$ 12,758	$ 127,527	$ 23,020

Condensed Consolidated Stateme6

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017
Operating activities:
Net income (loss)	$ 15,929	$ (2,566)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash flow from operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	78,630	98,667
Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges	21,120	20,610
Pension and other postretirement expenses, net of contributions	(50,244)	(7,082)
Stock-based compensation	9,221	10,059
Change in other assets and liabilities, net	5,874	9,965
Net cash provided by operating activities	80,530	129,653
Investing activities:
Capital expenditures	(27,522)	(29,831)
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired	1,401	(31,459)
Payments for investments	(2,558)	(2,414)
Proceeds from sale of certain assets	23,390	3,200
Changes in other investing activities	0	52
Net cash used for investing activities	(5,289)	(60,452)
Financing activities:
Dividends paid	(36,131)	(36,364)
Payments for employee taxes withheld from stock awards	(2,806)	(3,607)
Proceeds from borrowings under revolving credit agreement	140,000	35,000
Repayments of borrowings under revolving credit agreement	(325,000)	(50,000)
Proceeds from convertible debt	195,167	0
Proceeds from sale and leaseback transactions	41,791	0
Changes in other financing activities	(17)	165
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities	13,004	(54,806)
Effect of currency exchange rate change on cash	1,126	(1,670)
Increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash	89,371	12,725
Balance of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at beginning of period	144,032	138,212
Balance of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at end of period	233,403	150,937
Supplemental cash flow information:
Cash paid for taxes, net of refunds	5,179	(16,518)
Cash paid for interest	4,086	9,204
Non-cash investing and financing activities:
Accrued capital expenditures	$ 1,252	$ 1,907

Basis of presentation and summa

Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [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, we, us, our, or the company) is an innovative, digitally focused media and marketing solutions company committed to strengthening communities across our network. Gannett owns ReachLocal, Inc. (ReachLocal), a digital marketing solutions company, the USA TODAY NETWORK (made up of USA TODAY and 109 local media organizations in 34 states in the U.S. and Guam, including digital sites and affiliates), and Newsquest (a wholly owned subsidiary operating in the United Kingdom (U.K.) with more than 165 local media brands). Through the USA TODAY NETWORK and Newsquest, 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 31, 2017 . Beginning in the second quarter of 2018 , we have realigned the presentation of web presence and software-as-a-service revenues from other revenues to advertising and marketing services revenue on the Condensed consolidated statements of income (loss) . As a result of this updated presentation, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 , advertising and marketing services revenues increased and other revenues decreased $13.1 million and $23.9 million , respectively. Additionally, advertising and marketing services revenues increased and other revenues decreased $8.9 million and $15.9 million for the three and six months ended June 25, 2017 , respectively. Operating revenues, net income, retained earnings, and earnings per share remained unchanged. 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 for income taxes, pension and other post-employment benefits, allowances for doubtful accounts, stock-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 six months of 2018 : Revenue from Contracts with Customers : We adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) guidance which prescribes a single comprehensive model for entities to use in the accounting of revenue arising from contracts with customers. The new guidance is centered around the core principle 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. We adopted the new revenue recognition standard using the modified retrospective approach; however, we did not record any one-time adjustments to beginning retained earnings as a result of adopting the new guidance. Refer to Note 2 — Revenues for further details regarding the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with our customers. Cash and Cash Equivalents, including Statement of Cash Flows and Restricted Cash: We adopted FASB guidance requiring entities to disclose, 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. The guidance was adopted retrospectively, and the impact was not material to our consolidated financial results. Restricted cash primarily consists of cash held in an irrevocable grantor trust for our deferred compensation plans and cash held with banking institutions for insurance plans. The restrictions will lapse when benefits are paid to plan participants and their beneficiaries as specified in the plans. The following table presents a reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash: in thousands June 30, 2018 December 31, 2017 June 25, 2017 Cash and cash equivalents $ 209,678 $ 120,589 $ 126,940 Restricted cash included in other current assets 4,419 2,942 3,514 Restricted cash included in investments and other assets 19,306 20,501 20,483 Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash $ 233,403 $ 144,032 $ 150,937 Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities : We adopted FASB guidance revising the classification and measurement of investments in equity securities and the presentation of certain fair value changes in financial liabilities measured at fair value. The impact of adopting this guidance was not material to our consolidated financial results. Business Combinations—Definition of a Business : We adopted FASB guidance which amends the definition of a business. This new guidance now requires an entity to evaluate if substantially all of the fair value of gross assets acquired is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or a group of similar identifiable assets; if so, the set of transferred assets and activities is not a business. The impact of adopting this guidance was not material to our consolidated financial results. New accounting pronouncements not yet adopted: The following are new accounting pronouncements that we are evaluating for future impacts on our financial position: 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 currently anticipate adopting the new leasing standard on January 1, 2019 using the modified retrospective approach and expect to elect certain available transitional practical expedients. To date, we have made progress in our assessment of the impact of adopting this new guidance, and steps towards implementation have been taken. Our approach to implementation has consisted of performing a bottoms-up analysis of the impact of the standard on our portfolio of leases, and we are in the process of implementing changes to our systems and processes in conjunction with our review of lease agreements. Based on our progress to date, we anticipate adopting the standard will have a material impact on our consolidated balance sheets in the form of the recognition of additional right of use assets and lease liabilities for existing operating leases with a lease term greater than twelve months. However, we do not believe adoption will have a material impact on our consolidated statements of income and cash flows. Our preliminary evaluation and conclusions are subject to change as our assessment continues to progress or in the event additional updates to the standard are approved. Our full evaluation is expected to be completed and finalized during the fourth quarter of 2018. 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 evaluating the provisions of the updated guidance and assessing the impact on our consolidated financial statements. Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income: In February 2018, the FASB issued new guidance that allows a reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings for the tax effects of items within accumulated other comprehensive income, generally described as stranded tax effects, resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. We are evaluating the provisions of the updated guidance and assessing the impact on our consolidated financial statements. Compensation—Stock Compensation : In June 2018, the FASB issued new guidance which expands the scope of share-based compensation accounting by applying, with limited exceptions, the specific requirements of employee stock compensation to the accounting for non-employee awards granted in exchange for goods and services. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. We are evaluating the provisions of the updated guidance and assessing the impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Revenues

Revenues	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Revenues	NOTE 2 — Revenues In January 2018 , we adopted the new revenue recognition accounting pronouncement, Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 606 – Revenue from Contracts with Customers, using the modified retrospective method applied to those contracts which were not completed as of the adoption date. Results for reporting periods beginning after January 1, 2018 are presented under ASC 606 while prior period amounts are not adjusted and continue to be reported in accordance with legacy accounting under ASC 605 – Revenue recognition. We did not record any one-time adjustments to beginning retained earnings as a result of adopting the new guidance. The following table presents our revenues disaggregated by source: in thousands Three months ended Six months ended June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 (1) June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 (1) Print advertising $ 227,894 $ 273,423 $ 453,720 $ 543,901 Digital advertising and marketing services 192,269 180,684 376,755 352,687 Total advertising and marketing services 420,163 454,107 830,475 896,588 Circulation 263,806 273,676 530,392 556,962 Other 46,799 46,724 92,852 94,414 Total revenues $ 730,768 $ 774,507 $ 1,453,719 $ 1,547,964 (1) Prior period amounts have not been adjusted under the modified retrospective method. Additionally, approximately 14% of our quarter to date revenues and year to date revenues are generated from international locations. Recognition principles: Our revenues are recognized when control of the promised goods or services is transferred to our customers, in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. Additionally, sales and usage-based taxes are excluded from revenues. Advertising and marketing services revenues: Our advertising and marketing services revenues include amounts charged to advertisers for space purchased in our newspapers, ads placed on our digital platforms, other advertising products and services such as preprints and direct mail, the provision and sale of online marketing, web presence, and software-as-a-service products through our ReachLocal subsidiary, and revenues from other miscellaneous products and services. Print advertising is recognized in the period when advertising is printed. Digital advertising is recognized when placed on digital platforms either by cost per impression or cost per day. Web presence and software-as-a-service solutions are recognized when the products or services are delivered to the customer. Other advertising product and service revenues are recognized when advertisements or services are delivered. For online marketing products provided by our ReachLocal subsidiary, we enter into agreements for products in which our clients typically pay in advance and on a monthly basis. These prepayments include all charges for the included technology and any media services, management, third-party content, and other costs and fees. Revenue is then recognized as we purchase media on behalf of the customer and perform other marketing-related services. For our advertising revenues, we evaluate whether we are the principal (i.e., report revenues on a gross basis) or agent (i.e., report revenues on a net basis) by performing analyses regarding whether we control the provision of specified goods or services before they are transferred to our customers. We report advertising revenues gross when we control advertising inventory before it is transferred to the customer. Our control is evidenced by us being primarily responsible or sharing responsibility for the fulfillment of services and maintaining control over transaction pricing. Certain customers may receive credits, which are accounted for as a separate performance obligation. We estimate these amounts based on the expected amount to be provided to customers and reduce revenues recognized. We recognize the revenue when the performance obligation is satisfied. Circulation revenues: Our circulation revenues include revenues for newspapers (both print and digital) purchased by readers or distributors. Single copy circulation revenues are recognized on a daily basis as purchased newspapers are distributed, net of provisions for related returns. Circulation revenues from digital and home delivery subscriptions are recognized over the subscription period as the performance obligations are delivered. Other revenues: Our other revenues consist primarily of amounts received from commercial printing and distribution arrangements. Commercial printing and distribution revenues are recognized when the product is delivered to the customer. Arrangements with multiple performance obligations: We have various advertising and circulation agreements which have both print and digital performance obligations. Revenues from sales agreements that contain multiple performance obligations are allocated to each obligation based on the relative standalone selling price. We generally determine standalone selling prices based on the prices charged to customers or using expected cost plus a margin that is appropriate for that good or service. Deferred revenue: Amounts received from customers in advance of revenue recognition are deferred as liabilities. The following table presents changes in the deferred revenue balance for the six months ended June 30, 2018 by type of revenue: in thousands Six months ended June 30, 2018 Advertising and Other Circulation Total Beginning balance $ 33,986 $ 88,805 $ 122,791 Cash receipts 148,203 418,017 566,220 Revenue recognized (144,934 ) (415,713 ) (560,647 ) Ending balance $ 37,255 $ 91,109 $ 128,364 The Company’s primary source of deferred revenue is from circulation subscriptions paid in advance of the service provided. The majority of our subscription customers are billed and pay on monthly terms, but subscription periods range between one and twelve months. The remaining deferred revenue balance relates to advertising and other revenue. The $5.6 million increase in deferred revenue as compared to the year ended December 31, 2017 is the result of an increase in subscription fees billed due to increased average monthly revenue per paying subscriber. Practical expedients and exemptions: We generally expense sales commissions when incurred because the amortization period would have been one year or less. These costs are recorded within cost of sales. Additionally, we do not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations because the vast majority of our contracts have original expected lengths of one year or less and our payment terms are generally short-term in nature unless a customer is in bankruptcy.

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisitions	NOTE 3 — Acquisitions SweetIQ: In April 2017 , our ReachLocal subsidiary completed the acquisition of SweetIQ, a location and customer engagement software provider, for approximately $31.8 million , net of cash acquired. SweetIQ's customers include businesses with multi-location brands and agencies that target local marketing. The allocation of the purchase price was based upon estimated fair values. The determination of the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed has been completed and the final allocation is as follows: goodwill of $18.8 million , intangible assets of $15.2 million (comprised of trade names, customer relationships, and developed technology), noncurrent assets of $0.6 million , noncurrent liabilities of $1.8 million , and positive net working capital of $0.3 million . 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 SweetIQ is allocated to the ReachLocal segment. We do not expect the purchase price allocated to goodwill and intangibles to be deductible for tax purposes. Other: During 2018 and 2017 , we completed other immaterial acquisitions.

Restructuring activities and as

Restructuring activities and asset impairment charges	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring activities and asset impairment charges	NOTE 4 — 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. Facility consolidation and other cost savings plans led us to recognize restructuring expenses, which consist of severance-related expenses and facility consolidation charges, accelerated depreciation, and asset impairment charges. As part of our plans, we are selling certain assets which we have classified as held-for-sale and for which we have reduced the carrying values to equal the fair values less costs to dispose. Severance-related expenses: We recorded severance-related expenses of $8.5 million and $8.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and June 25, 2017 , respectively. Of the expenses incurred for the three months ended June 30, 2018 , $7.1 million related to the publishing segment, $1.2 million related to the ReachLocal segment, and $0.2 million related to the corporate and other category. Of the expenses incurred for the three months ended June 25, 2017 , $5.3 million related to the publishing segment, $0.3 million related to the ReachLocal segment, and $2.8 million related to the corporate and other category. We recorded severance-related expenses of $15.0 million and $20.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018 and June 25, 2017 , respectively. Of the expenses incurred for the six months ended June 30, 2018 , $12.6 million related to the publishing segment, $1.8 million related to the ReachLocal segment, and $0.6 million related to the corporate and other category. Of the expenses incurred for the six months ended June 25, 2017 , $15.8 million related to the publishing segment, $0.3 million related to the ReachLocal segment, and $4.2 million related to the corporate and other category. The activity and balance of the severance-related liabilities are as follows: In thousands Severance Activities Balance at December 31, 2017 $ 10,562 Expense 15,029 Payments (16,796 ) Balance at June 30, 2018 $ 8,795 Facility consolidation charges and accelerated depreciation: We recorded facility consolidation charges of $4.1 million and $1.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and June 25, 2017 , respectively. Of the charges incurred for the three months ended June 30, 2018 , $2.4 million related to the publishing segment while the remainder related to the ReachLocal segment. For the three months ended June 25, 2017 , all of the charges related to the publishing segment. In addition, we incurred accelerated depreciation of $4.2 million and $13.8 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and June 25, 2017 , respectively, which is included in depreciation expense. All of these charges related to the publishing segment. We recorded facility consolidation charges of $6.9 million and $2.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018 and June 25, 2017 , respectively. Of the charges incurred for the six months ended June 30, 2018 , $5.1 million related to the publishing segment while the remainder related to the ReachLocal segment. For the six months ended June 25, 2017 , all of the charges related to the publishing segment. In addition, we incurred accelerated depreciation of $9.4 million and $23.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018 and June 25, 2017 , respectively, which is included in depreciation expense. All of these charges related to the publishing segment. Asset impairment charges: We recorded charges for asset impairments of $10.5 million and $14.7 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and June 25, 2017 , respectively, which consisted entirely of impairment charges for property, plant, and equipment. These expenses were related to the publishing segment. We recorded charges for asset impairments of $14.2 million and $18.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018 and June 25, 2017 , respectively, which consisted entirely of impairment charges for property, plant, and equipment. These expenses were related to the publishing segment. Sale of property: In February 2018 , we sold property in Nashville, Tennessee and entered into a 15 -month rent-free leaseback agreement. The sale generated proceeds of approximately $41.8 million and is accounted for under the financing method. The property, which has a net book value of approximately $12.1 million as of June 30, 2018 , remains on the balance sheet and will continue to be depreciated until the lease terminates. We recorded the financing liability within Other current liabilities in the Condensed consolidated balance sheets . The sale, along with any related gain, will be recognized when the lease terminates.

Debt

Debt	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt	NOTE 5 — Debt 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 June 30, 2018 . 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 June 30, 2018 . As of June 30, 2018 , we had $170.0 million in outstanding borrowings under the Credit Facility and $15.3 million of letters of credit outstanding, leaving $314.7 million of availability remaining. After the quarter ended, we made additional payments on the Credit Facility to reduce outstanding borrowings. Convertible debt: On April 9, 2018 , we completed an offering of 4.75% convertible senior notes, with an initial offering size of $175.0 million aggregate principal amount. As part of the offering, the initial purchaser of the notes exercised its option to purchase an additional $26.3 million aggregate principal amount of notes, resulting in total aggregate principal of $201.3 million and net proceeds of approximately $195.2 million . Interest on the notes is payable semi-annually in arrears. The notes mature on April 15, 2024 with our earliest redemption date being April 15, 2022 . The stated conversion rate of the notes is 82.4572 shares per $1,000 in principal or approximately $12.13 per share. Upon conversion, we have the option to settle in cash, shares of our common stock, or a combination of the two. Additionally, holders may convert the notes at their option prior to January 15, 2024 only if one or more of the following conditions are present: (1) if, during any 20 of the 30 trading days immediately preceding a quarter end, our common stock trading price is 130% of the stated conversion price, (2) if, during the five business day period after any ten consecutive trading day period, the trading price per $1,000 principal amount of notes is less than 98% of the product of (a) the last reported sale price of the Company's common stock and (b) the conversion rate on each such trading day, or (3) a qualified change in control event occurs. Depending on the nature of the triggering event, the conversion rate may also be subject to adjustment. As of June 30, 2018 , the $201.3 million principal value of the notes is bifurcated into debt and equity components. The $171.1 million liability component is measured at fair value using the present value of its cash flows at a discount rate of 7.94% and is reported as convertible debt in the Condensed consolidated balance sheets . The residual amount of $30.2 million is recorded within additional paid-in capital in the equity section of the Condensed consolidated balance sheets . $6.3 million of debt issuance costs were allocated between liabilities and equity in proportion to the allocation of the principal value of the notes, with $5.4 million allocated to liabilities and $0.9 million allocated to equity. These debt issuance costs will be amortized over the 6 -year contractual life of the notes. The unamortized discount totaled $29.3 million as of June 30, 2018 , which will be amortized over the remaining contractual life of the notes. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 , interest expense on the notes totaled $2.2 million , amortization of debt issuance costs was $0.2 million , and amortization of the discount was $0.9 million . The effective interest rate on the liability component of the notes was 7.91% as of June 30, 2018 . For the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 , no shares were issued upon conversion, exercise, or satisfaction of the required conditions because no conversion triggers were met during the period. Refer to Note 11 — Earnings (loss) per share for details on the convertible debt's impact to diluted earnings per share under the treasury stock method.

Pensions and other postretireme

Pensions and other postretirement benefit plans	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Pensions and other postretirement benefit plans	NOTE 6 — 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. (U.K. Pension 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 June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 Pension Postretirement Pension Postretirement Operating expenses: Service cost - benefits earned during the period $ 576 $ 33 $ 400 $ 26 Non-operating expenses: Interest cost on benefit obligation 26,598 699 27,595 863 Expected return on plan assets (44,476 ) — (41,961 ) — Amortization of prior service cost 483 (884 ) 1,675 (916 ) Amortization of actuarial loss (gain) 17,152 (275 ) 18,551 (73 ) Total non-operating expenses (credit) (243 ) (460 ) 5,860 (126 ) Total expense (benefit) for retirement plans $ 333 $ (427 ) $ 6,260 $ (100 ) In thousands Six months ended June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 Pension Postretirement Pension Postretirement Operating expenses: Service cost - benefits earned during the period $ 1,178 $ 88 $ 1,220 $ 78 Non-operating expenses: Interest cost on benefit obligation 52,019 1,482 55,374 1,804 Expected return on plan assets (89,025 ) — (84,378 ) — Amortization of prior service cost 962 (1,767 ) 3,335 (1,824 ) Amortization of actuarial loss 32,533 (180 ) 36,171 52 Total non-operating expenses (credit) (3,511 ) (465 ) 10,502 32 Total expense (benefit) for retirement plans $ (2,333 ) $ (377 ) $ 11,722 $ 110 During the six months ended June 30, 2018 , we contributed $42.4 million and $5.1 million to our pension and other post-retirement plans, respectively. We expect to contribute approximately $25.0 million to the GRP in each of the fiscal years 2018 through 2020 and $15.0 million in 2021 . We also expect to contribute to the U.K. Pension Plans £28.2 million in 2018 , £24.0 million in 2019 , £19.8 million in 2020 , and £18.0 million in 2021 . In June 2018, the inflation index used to determine payments to beneficiaries of the Newsquest pension plan was changed from the Retail Prices Index (RPI) to the Consumer Prices Index (CPI). As a result of this change, we remeasured the plan and recognized actuarial gains of $33.1 million and a net prior service credit of $103.4 million within accumulated other comprehensive loss in the Condensed consolidated balance sheets . The fair value of the funded status at June 30, 2018 was $54.4 million and is presented within Pension assets in the Condensed consolidated balance sheets . This value represents the fair value of the plan assets of $785.2 million net of benefit obligations of $730.8 million . Pursuant to the aforementioned change in index, we also reassessed the Newsquest plan's actuarial assumptions. As a result of this review, we lowered the rate of return on plan assets from 5.7% to 4.6% and raised the discount rate for the plan from 2.65% to 2.8% .

Income taxes

Income taxes	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income taxes	NOTE 7 — Income taxes The following table outlines our pre-tax net income and income tax expense amounts: In thousands Three months ended Six months ended June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 Pre-tax net income 16,207 1,749 15,701 (5,360 ) Income tax expense (99 ) 2,236 (228 ) (2,794 ) Effective tax rate *** *** *** 52.1 % *** Indicates a percentage that is not meaningful The Company benefited from favorable permanent differences such as a tax rate change adjustment due to tax reform of $2.1 million and the release of certain valuation allowances of $1.7 million during the three months ended June 30, 2018 , resulting in a lower tax expense compared to three months ended June 25, 2017 . Tax expense for the six months ended June 30, 2018 was higher than the comparable period in 2017 due to higher pre-tax net income, a lower tax benefit from share-based compensation, and a lower release of tax reserves compared to prior year. In December 2017 , the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the Tax Act) was signed into law. The Tax Act contains significant changes to corporate taxation, including a reduction of the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% , limitation of the tax deduction for interest expense to 30% of earnings, limitation of the deduction for net operating losses (generated after 2017 ) to 80% of current year taxable income, elimination of net operating loss carrybacks, one time taxation of offshore earnings at reduced rates regardless of whether offshore earnings are repatriated, elimination of U.S. tax on foreign earnings (subject to certain important exceptions), immediate deductions for certain new investments instead of deductions for depreciation expense over time, and modifying or repealing many business deductions and credits. The Tax Act also includes certain provisions that will offset the benefits of the rate reduction such as repeal of the domestic production deduction and disallowance of the deduction of performance-based officers’ compensation in excess of $1 million . In December 2017 , Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 (SAB 118) was issued to address the application of U.S. GAAP in situations when a registrant does not have the necessary information available, prepared, or analyzed (including computations) in reasonable detail to complete the accounting for certain income tax effects of the Tax Act. As of June 30, 2018 , we have not completed our accounting for the tax effects of the enactment of the Tax Act; however, where possible, as described herein, we have made a reasonable estimate of the effects on our existing deferred tax balances and related items and other tax liabilities. In 2017 , we remeasured our deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the rates at which they are expected to reverse in the future, which is generally 21% for U.S. federal tax purposes. During the six months ended June 30, 2018 , we recognized favorable adjustments of $2.1 million to the provisional amounts recorded at December 31, 2017 . As we finalize our analysis of these changes, including the impact on our 2017 tax return filing positions throughout the year, we will update our provisional amounts for this re-measurement. The Company is still evaluating the Tax Act’s Global Intangible Low-Taxed Income (GILTI) provisions and has not yet elected an accounting policy. The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate was approximately $28.6 million as of June 30, 2018 and $30.1 million as of December 31, 2017 . The amount of accrued interest and penalties payable related to unrecognized tax benefits was $0.9 million as of June 30, 2018 and $0.9 million as of December 31, 2017 . 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 $2.4 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	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Equity [Abstract]
Supplemental equity information	NOTE 8 — Supplemental equity information The following table summarizes equity account activity: In thousands Six months ended June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 Balance at beginning of period $ 1,017,395 $ 856,761 Comprehensive income: Net income (loss) 15,929 (2,566 ) Other comprehensive income 111,598 25,586 Total comprehensive income 127,527 23,020 Dividends declared (36,131 ) (36,364 ) Convertible debt conversion feature 21,561 — Stock-based compensation 9,221 10,059 Other activity (5,173 ) (2,986 ) Balance at end of period $ 1,134,400 $ 850,490 Changes in our common stock balance consist entirely of new shares issued for the settlement of employee stock awards. Approximately 1.2 million and 0.8 million new shares were issued for the six months ended June 30, 2018 and June 25, 2017 , respectively. 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 December 31, 2017 $ (1,000,790 ) $ 344,273 $ (656,517 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 101,753 (13,936 ) 87,817 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 23,781 — 23,781 Other comprehensive income 125,534 (13,936 ) 111,598 Balance at June 30, 2018 $ (875,256 ) $ 330,337 $ (544,919 ) Balance at December 25, 2016 $ (1,183,196 ) $ 300,284 $ (882,912 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (12,639 ) 13,957 1,318 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 24,268 — 24,268 Other comprehensive income 11,629 13,957 25,586 Balance at June 25, 2017 $ (1,171,567 ) $ 314,241 $ (857,326 ) Accumulated other comprehensive loss components are included in computing net periodic postretirement costs as outlined in Note 6 — 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 Six months ended June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 Amortization of prior service credit, net $ (401 ) $ 759 $ (805 ) $ 1,511 Amortization of actuarial loss 16,877 18,478 32,353 36,223 Total reclassifications, before tax 16,476 19,237 31,548 37,734 Income tax effect (4,064 ) (6,867 ) (7,767 ) (13,466 ) Total reclassifications, net of tax $ 12,412 $ 12,370 $ 23,781 $ 24,268

Fair value measurement

Fair value measurement	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value measurement	NOTE 9 — 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 June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , assets and liabilities recorded at fair value and measured on a recurring basis primarily consist of pension plan assets. As permitted by U.S. GAAP, we use net asset values as a practical expedient to determine the fair value of certain investments. These investments measured at net asset value have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy. The Credit Facility is recorded at carrying value, which approximates fair value, in the Condensed consolidated balance sheets and is classified as Level 3. The liability component of the convertible debt is classified as Level 2 because it is measured at fair value using commonly accepted valuation methodologies and indirectly observable, market-based risk measurements. 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, letters of intent, or third-party valuation analyses when certain circumstances arise. Assets held for sale totaled $24.3 million as of June 30, 2018 and $18.9 million as of December 31, 2017 .

Commitments, contingencies and

Commitments, contingencies and other matters	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments, contingencies and other matters	NOTE 10 — 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 estimated settlements are reflected in our financial statements as of June 30, 2018 and were not material to our results of operations, financial position, or cash flows. Environmental contingency: In March 2011 , the Advertiser Company (Advertiser), 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. The 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	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings (loss) per share	NOTE 11 — 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 Six months ended June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 Net income (loss) $ 16,306 $ (487 ) $ 15,929 $ (2,566 ) Weighted average number of shares outstanding - basic 112,946 113,652 112,852 113,574 Effect of dilutive securities Restricted stock units 2,243 — 2,245 — Performance share units 954 — 855 — Stock options 76 — 83 — Weighted average number of shares outstanding - diluted 116,219 113,652 116,035 113,574 Earnings (loss) per share - basic $ 0.14 $ (0.00 ) $ 0.14 $ (0.02 ) Earnings (loss) per share - diluted $ 0.14 $ (0.00 ) $ 0.14 $ (0.02 ) For the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 , approximately 209,000 and 719,000 outstanding common stock equivalents, respectively, were excluded from the computation of diluted EPS because their effect would have been anti-dilutive. For the three and six months ended June 25, 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 losses in each period. In accordance with accounting for dilutive securities under the treasury stock method, no shares related to our convertible notes were included in our calculation of diluted EPS for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 because no conversion triggers were met during the period. On May 8, 2018 , we declared a dividend of $0.16 per share of common stock, which was paid on June 25, 2018 , to shareholders of record as of the close of business on June 11, 2018 . Furthermore, on July 25, 2018 , we declared a dividend of $0.16 per share of common stock, payable on September 24, 2018 , to shareholders of record as of the close of business on September 10, 2018 .

Segment reporting

Segment reporting	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment reporting	NOTE 12 — 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. Our reportable segments include the following: • Publishing, which consists of our portfolio of local, regional, national, and international newspaper publishers. The results of this segment include local, 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, 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, finance, and marketing as well as activities such as tax settlements and other general business costs. In the ordinary course of business, our reportable segments enter into transactions with one another. While intersegment transactions are treated like third-party transactions to determine segment performance, the revenues and expenses recognized by the segment that is the counterparty to the transaction are eliminated in consolidation and do not affect consolidated results. 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 and may be different than similarly-titled non-GAAP financial measures used by other companies. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income before (1) income taxes, (2) interest expense, (3) equity income, (4) other non-operating items, (5) restructuring costs, (6) acquisition-related expenses (including integration expenses), (7) asset impairment charges, (8) other items (including certain business transformation costs, litigation expenses, multi-employer pension withdrawals, and gains or losses on certain investments), (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. The following table presents our segment information: in thousands Publishing ReachLocal Corporate and Other Intersegment Eliminations Consolidated Three months ended June 30, 2018 Advertising and marketing services - external sales $ 319,728 $ 100,435 $ — $ — $ 420,163 Advertising and marketing services - intersegment sales 16,027 — — (16,027 ) — Circulation 263,806 — — — 263,806 Other 44,990 — 1,809 — 46,799 Total revenues $ 644,551 $ 100,435 $ 1,809 $ (16,027 ) $ 730,768 Adjusted EBITDA $ 94,358 $ 10,271 $ (19,030 ) $ — $ 85,599 Three months ended June 25, 2017 Advertising and marketing services - external sales $ 368,181 $ 85,926 $ — $ — $ 454,107 Advertising and marketing services - intersegment sales 4,640 — — (4,640 ) — Circulation 273,676 — — — 273,676 Other 45,683 — 1,041 — 46,724 Total revenues $ 692,180 $ 85,926 $ 1,041 $ (4,640 ) $ 774,507 Adjusted EBITDA $ 104,120 $ 1,217 $ (21,683 ) $ — $ 83,654 in thousands Publishing ReachLocal Corporate and Other Intersegment Eliminations Consolidated Six months ended June 30, 2018 Advertising and marketing services - external sales $ 633,552 $ 196,923 $ — $ — $ 830,475 Advertising and marketing services - intersegment sales 30,200 — — (30,200 ) — Circulation 530,392 — — — 530,392 Other 89,067 — 3,785 — 92,852 Total revenues $ 1,283,211 $ 196,923 $ 3,785 $ (30,200 ) $ 1,453,719 Adjusted EBITDA $ 172,116 $ 16,480 $ (47,929 ) $ — $ 140,667 Six months ended June 25, 2017 Advertising and marketing services - external sales $ 733,149 $ 163,491 $ (52 ) $ — $ 896,588 Advertising and marketing services - intersegment sales 4,640 — — (4,640 ) — Circulation 556,962 — — — 556,962 Other 92,353 — 2,061 — 94,414 Total revenues $ 1,387,104 $ 163,491 $ 2,009 $ (4,640 ) $ 1,547,964 Adjusted EBITDA $ 195,784 $ 4,363 $ (46,812 ) $ — $ 153,335 The following table presents our reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA to net income: In thousands Three months ended Six months ended June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 Net income (loss) (GAAP basis) $ 16,306 $ (487 ) $ 15,929 $ (2,566 ) Provision (benefit) for income taxes (99 ) 2,236 (228 ) (2,794 ) Interest expense 5,935 3,454 10,413 7,709 Other non-operating items, net (4,042 ) 5,301 (8,353 ) 9,188 Operating income (GAAP basis) 18,100 10,504 17,761 11,537 Depreciation and amortization 38,378 51,850 78,630 98,667 Restructuring costs 12,611 9,827 21,910 22,378 Asset impairment charges 10,483 14,719 14,239 18,497 Acquisition-related items 3,022 1,570 3,946 2,593 Other items 3,005 (4,816 ) 4,181 (337 ) Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP basis) $ 85,599 $ 83,654 $ 140,667 $ 153,335 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, 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	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent events	NOTE 13 — Subsequent events In July 2018 , we completed the acquisition of WordStream, Inc., a provider of cloud-based software-as-a-service solutions for local and regional businesses and agencies, for approximately $130.0 million , net of cash acquired. In addition, up to $20.0 million of additional consideration is payable in 2019 and 2020 based upon the achievement of certain revenue targets. We financed the transaction through borrowings under our Credit Facility as well as with available cash on hand. It is not practicable to disclose the preliminary purchase price allocation or consolidated pro forma financial information for this transaction given the short period of time between the respective acquisition date and the issuance of this report.

Basis of presentation and sum20

Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies (Policies)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [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 31, 2017 . Beginning in the second quarter of 2018 , we have realigned the presentation of web presence and software-as-a-service revenues from other revenues to advertising and marketing services revenue on the Condensed consolidated statements of income (loss) . As a result of this updated presentation, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 , advertising and marketing services revenues increased and other revenues decreased $13.1 million and $23.9 million , respectively. Additionally, advertising and marketing services revenues increased and other revenues decreased $8.9 million and $15.9 million for the three and six months ended June 25, 2017 , respectively. Operating revenues, net income, retained earnings, and earnings per share remained unchanged.
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 for income taxes, pension and other post-employment benefits, allowances for doubtful accounts, stock-based compensation, depreciation and amortization, business combinations, litigation matters, contingencies, and the valuation of long-lived and intangible assets.
New accounting pronouncements adopted	New accounting pronouncements adopted: The following are new accounting pronouncements that we adopted in the first six months of 2018 : Revenue from Contracts with Customers : We adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) guidance which prescribes a single comprehensive model for entities to use in the accounting of revenue arising from contracts with customers. The new guidance is centered around the core principle 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. We adopted the new revenue recognition standard using the modified retrospective approach; however, we did not record any one-time adjustments to beginning retained earnings as a result of adopting the new guidance. Refer to Note 2 — Revenues for further details regarding the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with our customers. Cash and Cash Equivalents, including Statement of Cash Flows and Restricted Cash: We adopted FASB guidance requiring entities to disclose, 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. The guidance was adopted retrospectively, and the impact was not material to our consolidated financial results. Restricted cash primarily consists of cash held in an irrevocable grantor trust for our deferred compensation plans and cash held with banking institutions for insurance plans. The restrictions will lapse when benefits are paid to plan participants and their beneficiaries as specified in the plans. The following table presents a reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash: in thousands June 30, 2018 December 31, 2017 June 25, 2017 Cash and cash equivalents $ 209,678 $ 120,589 $ 126,940 Restricted cash included in other current assets 4,419 2,942 3,514 Restricted cash included in investments and other assets 19,306 20,501 20,483 Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash $ 233,403 $ 144,032 $ 150,937 Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities : We adopted FASB guidance revising the classification and measurement of investments in equity securities and the presentation of certain fair value changes in financial liabilities measured at fair value. The impact of adopting this guidance was not material to our consolidated financial results. Business Combinations—Definition of a Business : We adopted FASB guidance which amends the definition of a business. This new guidance now requires an entity to evaluate if substantially all of the fair value of gross assets acquired is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or a group of similar identifiable assets; if so, the set of transferred assets and activities is not a business. The impact of adopting this guidance was not material to our consolidated financial results. New accounting pronouncements not yet adopted: The following are new accounting pronouncements that we are evaluating for future impacts on our financial position: 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 currently anticipate adopting the new leasing standard on January 1, 2019 using the modified retrospective approach and expect to elect certain available transitional practical expedients. To date, we have made progress in our assessment of the impact of adopting this new guidance, and steps towards implementation have been taken. Our approach to implementation has consisted of performing a bottoms-up analysis of the impact of the standard on our portfolio of leases, and we are in the process of implementing changes to our systems and processes in conjunction with our review of lease agreements. Based on our progress to date, we anticipate adopting the standard will have a material impact on our consolidated balance sheets in the form of the recognition of additional right of use assets and lease liabilities for existing operating leases with a lease term greater than twelve months. However, we do not believe adoption will have a material impact on our consolidated statements of income and cash flows. Our preliminary evaluation and conclusions are subject to change as our assessment continues to progress or in the event additional updates to the standard are approved. Our full evaluation is expected to be completed and finalized during the fourth quarter of 2018. 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 evaluating the provisions of the updated guidance and assessing the impact on our consolidated financial statements. Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income: In February 2018, the FASB issued new guidance that allows a reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings for the tax effects of items within accumulated other comprehensive income, generally described as stranded tax effects, resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. We are evaluating the provisions of the updated guidance and assessing the impact on our consolidated financial statements. Compensation—Stock Compensation : In June 2018, the FASB issued new guidance which expands the scope of share-based compensation accounting by applying, with limited exceptions, the specific requirements of employee stock compensation to the accounting for non-employee awards granted in exchange for goods and services. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. We are evaluating the provisions of the updated guidance and assessing the impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Basis of presentation and sum21

Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents	The following table presents a reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash: in thousands June 30, 2018 December 31, 2017 June 25, 2017 Cash and cash equivalents $ 209,678 $ 120,589 $ 126,940 Restricted cash included in other current assets 4,419 2,942 3,514 Restricted cash included in investments and other assets 19,306 20,501 20,483 Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash $ 233,403 $ 144,032 $ 150,937

Revenues (Tables)

Revenues (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Disaggregation of Revenue	The following table presents our revenues disaggregated by source: in thousands Three months ended Six months ended June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 (1) June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 (1) Print advertising $ 227,894 $ 273,423 $ 453,720 $ 543,901 Digital advertising and marketing services 192,269 180,684 376,755 352,687 Total advertising and marketing services 420,163 454,107 830,475 896,588 Circulation 263,806 273,676 530,392 556,962 Other 46,799 46,724 92,852 94,414 Total revenues $ 730,768 $ 774,507 $ 1,453,719 $ 1,547,964 (1) Prior period amounts have not been adjusted under the modified retrospective method.
Deferred Revenue, by Arrangement, Disclosure	The following table presents changes in the deferred revenue balance for the six months ended June 30, 2018 by type of revenue: in thousands Six months ended June 30, 2018 Advertising and Other Circulation Total Beginning balance $ 33,986 $ 88,805 $ 122,791 Cash receipts 148,203 418,017 566,220 Revenue recognized (144,934 ) (415,713 ) (560,647 ) Ending balance $ 37,255 $ 91,109 $ 128,364

Restructuring activities and 23

Restructuring activities and asset impairment charges (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
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 December 31, 2017 $ 10,562 Expense 15,029 Payments (16,796 ) Balance at June 30, 2018 $ 8,795

Pensions and other postretire24

Pensions and other postretirement benefit plans (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Benefit costs	Retirement plan costs include the following components: In thousands Three months ended June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 Pension Postretirement Pension Postretirement Operating expenses: Service cost - benefits earned during the period $ 576 $ 33 $ 400 $ 26 Non-operating expenses: Interest cost on benefit obligation 26,598 699 27,595 863 Expected return on plan assets (44,476 ) — (41,961 ) — Amortization of prior service cost 483 (884 ) 1,675 (916 ) Amortization of actuarial loss (gain) 17,152 (275 ) 18,551 (73 ) Total non-operating expenses (credit) (243 ) (460 ) 5,860 (126 ) Total expense (benefit) for retirement plans $ 333 $ (427 ) $ 6,260 $ (100 ) In thousands Six months ended June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 Pension Postretirement Pension Postretirement Operating expenses: Service cost - benefits earned during the period $ 1,178 $ 88 $ 1,220 $ 78 Non-operating expenses: Interest cost on benefit obligation 52,019 1,482 55,374 1,804 Expected return on plan assets (89,025 ) — (84,378 ) — Amortization of prior service cost 962 (1,767 ) 3,335 (1,824 ) Amortization of actuarial loss 32,533 (180 ) 36,171 52 Total non-operating expenses (credit) (3,511 ) (465 ) 10,502 32 Total expense (benefit) for retirement plans $ (2,333 ) $ (377 ) $ 11,722 $ 110

Income taxes (Tables)

Income taxes (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	The following table outlines our pre-tax net income and income tax expense amounts: In thousands Three months ended Six months ended June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 Pre-tax net income 16,207 1,749 15,701 (5,360 ) Income tax expense (99 ) 2,236 (228 ) (2,794 ) Effective tax rate *** *** *** 52.1 % *** Indicates a percentage that is not meaningful

Supplemental equity informati26

Supplemental equity information (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Equity	The following table summarizes equity account activity: In thousands Six months ended June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 Balance at beginning of period $ 1,017,395 $ 856,761 Comprehensive income: Net income (loss) 15,929 (2,566 ) Other comprehensive income 111,598 25,586 Total comprehensive income 127,527 23,020 Dividends declared (36,131 ) (36,364 ) Convertible debt conversion feature 21,561 — Stock-based compensation 9,221 10,059 Other activity (5,173 ) (2,986 ) Balance at end of period $ 1,134,400 $ 850,490
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 December 31, 2017 $ (1,000,790 ) $ 344,273 $ (656,517 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 101,753 (13,936 ) 87,817 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 23,781 — 23,781 Other comprehensive income 125,534 (13,936 ) 111,598 Balance at June 30, 2018 $ (875,256 ) $ 330,337 $ (544,919 ) Balance at December 25, 2016 $ (1,183,196 ) $ 300,284 $ (882,912 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (12,639 ) 13,957 1,318 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 24,268 — 24,268 Other comprehensive income 11,629 13,957 25,586 Balance at June 25, 2017 $ (1,171,567 ) $ 314,241 $ (857,326 )
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 Six months ended June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 Amortization of prior service credit, net $ (401 ) $ 759 $ (805 ) $ 1,511 Amortization of actuarial loss 16,877 18,478 32,353 36,223 Total reclassifications, before tax 16,476 19,237 31,548 37,734 Income tax effect (4,064 ) (6,867 ) (7,767 ) (13,466 ) Total reclassifications, net of tax $ 12,412 $ 12,370 $ 23,781 $ 24,268

Earnings (loss) per share (Tabl

Earnings (loss) per share (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
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 Six months ended June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 Net income (loss) $ 16,306 $ (487 ) $ 15,929 $ (2,566 ) Weighted average number of shares outstanding - basic 112,946 113,652 112,852 113,574 Effect of dilutive securities Restricted stock units 2,243 — 2,245 — Performance share units 954 — 855 — Stock options 76 — 83 — Weighted average number of shares outstanding - diluted 116,219 113,652 116,035 113,574 Earnings (loss) per share - basic $ 0.14 $ (0.00 ) $ 0.14 $ (0.02 ) Earnings (loss) per share - diluted $ 0.14 $ (0.00 ) $ 0.14 $ (0.02 )

Segment reporting (Tables)

Segment reporting (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment	The following table presents our segment information: in thousands Publishing ReachLocal Corporate and Other Intersegment Eliminations Consolidated Three months ended June 30, 2018 Advertising and marketing services - external sales $ 319,728 $ 100,435 $ — $ — $ 420,163 Advertising and marketing services - intersegment sales 16,027 — — (16,027 ) — Circulation 263,806 — — — 263,806 Other 44,990 — 1,809 — 46,799 Total revenues $ 644,551 $ 100,435 $ 1,809 $ (16,027 ) $ 730,768 Adjusted EBITDA $ 94,358 $ 10,271 $ (19,030 ) $ — $ 85,599 Three months ended June 25, 2017 Advertising and marketing services - external sales $ 368,181 $ 85,926 $ — $ — $ 454,107 Advertising and marketing services - intersegment sales 4,640 — — (4,640 ) — Circulation 273,676 — — — 273,676 Other 45,683 — 1,041 — 46,724 Total revenues $ 692,180 $ 85,926 $ 1,041 $ (4,640 ) $ 774,507 Adjusted EBITDA $ 104,120 $ 1,217 $ (21,683 ) $ — $ 83,654 in thousands Publishing ReachLocal Corporate and Other Intersegment Eliminations Consolidated Six months ended June 30, 2018 Advertising and marketing services - external sales $ 633,552 $ 196,923 $ — $ — $ 830,475 Advertising and marketing services - intersegment sales 30,200 — — (30,200 ) — Circulation 530,392 — — — 530,392 Other 89,067 — 3,785 — 92,852 Total revenues $ 1,283,211 $ 196,923 $ 3,785 $ (30,200 ) $ 1,453,719 Adjusted EBITDA $ 172,116 $ 16,480 $ (47,929 ) $ — $ 140,667 Six months ended June 25, 2017 Advertising and marketing services - external sales $ 733,149 $ 163,491 $ (52 ) $ — $ 896,588 Advertising and marketing services - intersegment sales 4,640 — — (4,640 ) — Circulation 556,962 — — — 556,962 Other 92,353 — 2,061 — 94,414 Total revenues $ 1,387,104 $ 163,491 $ 2,009 $ (4,640 ) $ 1,547,964 Adjusted EBITDA $ 195,784 $ 4,363 $ (46,812 ) $ — $ 153,335 The following table presents our reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA to net income: In thousands Three months ended Six months ended June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 June 30, 2018 June 25, 2017 Net income (loss) (GAAP basis) $ 16,306 $ (487 ) $ 15,929 $ (2,566 ) Provision (benefit) for income taxes (99 ) 2,236 (228 ) (2,794 ) Interest expense 5,935 3,454 10,413 7,709 Other non-operating items, net (4,042 ) 5,301 (8,353 ) 9,188 Operating income (GAAP basis) 18,100 10,504 17,761 11,537 Depreciation and amortization 38,378 51,850 78,630 98,667 Restructuring costs 12,611 9,827 21,910 22,378 Asset impairment charges 10,483 14,719 14,239 18,497 Acquisition-related items 3,022 1,570 3,946 2,593 Other items 3,005 (4,816 ) 4,181 (337 ) Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP basis) $ 85,599 $ 83,654 $ 140,667 $ 153,335

Basis of presentation and sum29

Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies - Narrative (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)brandstateorganization	Jun. 25, 2017USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)brandstateorganization	Jun. 25, 2017USD ($)
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Increase (decrease) in revenue	$ 730,768	$ 774,507	$ 1,453,719	$ 1,547,964
U.S.
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of media organizations | organization	109		109
Number of states in which entity operates | state	34		34
U.K.
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of media brands, more than | brand	165		165
Advertising and marketing services
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Increase (decrease) in revenue	$ 420,163	454,107	$ 830,475	896,588
Advertising and marketing services | Restatement Adjustment
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Increase (decrease) in revenue	13,100	8,900	23,900	15,900
Other
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Increase (decrease) in revenue	46,799	46,724	92,852	94,414
Other | Restatement Adjustment
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Increase (decrease) in revenue	$ (13,100)	$ (8,900)	$ (23,900)	$ (15,900)

Basis of presentation and sum30

Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies - Schedule of Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Restricted Cash (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Jun. 25, 2017	Dec. 25, 2016
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 209,678	$ 120,589	$ 126,940
Restricted cash included in other current assets	4,419	2,942	3,514
Restricted cash included in investments and other assets	19,306	20,501	20,483
Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash	$ 233,403	$ 144,032	$ 150,937	$ 138,212

Revenues - Disaggregation of Re

Revenues - Disaggregation of Revenue (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenues	$ 730,768	$ 774,507	$ 1,453,719	$ 1,547,964
Print
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenues	227,894	273,423	453,720	543,901
Digital
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenues	192,269	180,684	376,755	352,687
Advertising
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenues	420,163	454,107	830,475	896,588
Circulation
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenues	263,806	273,676	530,392	556,962
Other
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenues	$ 46,799	$ 46,724	$ 92,852	$ 94,414

Revenues - Narrative (Details)

Revenues - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017
Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items]
Increase (decrease) in revenue	$ 730,768	$ 774,507	$ 1,453,719	$ 1,547,964
Increase in deferred revenue			$ 5,600
International
Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items]
Revenue, percentage	14.00%		14.00%
Advertising and marketing services
Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items]
Increase (decrease) in revenue	$ 420,163	454,107	$ 830,475	896,588
Other
Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items]
Increase (decrease) in revenue	$ 46,799	$ 46,724	$ 92,852	$ 94,414

Revenues - Deferred Revenue (De

Revenues - Deferred Revenue (Details) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)
Movement in Deferred Revenue [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 122,791
Cash receipts	566,220
Revenue recognized	(560,647)
Ending balance	128,364
Advertising and Other
Movement in Deferred Revenue [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	33,986
Cash receipts	148,203
Revenue recognized	(144,934)
Ending balance	37,255
Circulation
Movement in Deferred Revenue [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	88,805
Cash receipts	418,017
Revenue recognized	(415,713)
Ending balance	$ 91,109

Acquisitions - Narrative (Detai

Acquisitions - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired		$ (1,401)	$ 31,459
Goodwill		$ 732,452		$ 737,716
SweetIQ
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired	$ 31,800
Goodwill	18,800
Intangible assets	15,200
Other noncurrent assets	600
Noncurrent liabilities	1,800
Net working capital	$ 300

Restructuring activities and 35

Restructuring activities and asset impairment charges - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Feb. 05, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Rent-free leaseback term	15 months
Proceeds from sale of property, plant, and equipment	$ 41,800
Book value		$ 12,100		$ 12,100
Severance
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges		8,500	$ 8,400	15,029	$ 20,300
Facility Closing
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Asset impairment and other charges, pre-tax amount		4,100	1,400	6,900	2,100
Corporate | Severance
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges		200	2,800	600	4,200
Publishing
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Asset impairment and other charges, pre-tax amount		10,500	14,700	14,200	18,500
Accelerated depreciation		4,200	13,800	9,400	23,600
Publishing | Severance
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges		7,100	5,300	12,600	15,800
Publishing | Facility Closing
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Asset impairment and other charges, pre-tax amount		2,400		5,100
ReachLocal | Severance
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges		$ 1,200	$ 300	$ 1,800	$ 300

Restructuring activities and 36

Restructuring activities and asset impairment charges - Restructuring Reserve (Details) - Severance - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Balance at December 31, 2017			$ 10,562
Expense	$ 8,500	$ 8,400	15,029	$ 20,300
Payments			(16,796)
Balance at June 30, 2018	$ 8,795		$ 8,795

Debt - Narrative (Details)

Debt - Narrative (Details)	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Document Period End Date		Jun. 30, 2018
Convertible Debt | Senior Notes
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Interest Expense, Debt	$ 2,200,000	$ 2,200,000
Amortization of debt issuance costs	200,000	200,000
Amortization of debt discount	900,000	900,000
Line of Credit | Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Outstanding amount	170,000,000	170,000,000
Remaining borrowing capacity	314,700,000	314,700,000
Line of Credit | Letter of Credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	50,000,000	50,000,000
Outstanding amount	15,300,000	15,300,000
Line of Credit | Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	$ 500,000,000	$ 500,000,000
Consolidated interest coverage ratio, not to be less than		3
Total leverage ratio, not to exceed		3
Federal Funds Rate | Line of Credit | Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis point spread on variable rate (as a percent)		0.50%
LIBOR | Line of Credit | Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis point spread on variable rate (as a percent)		1.00%
Minimum | Line of Credit | Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment fee on undrawn commitments (as a percent)		0.30%
Minimum | LIBOR | Line of Credit | Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis point spread on variable rate (as a percent)		2.00%
Minimum | ABR | Line of Credit | Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis point spread on variable rate (as a percent)		1.00%
Maximum | Line of Credit | Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment fee on undrawn commitments (as a percent)		0.40%
Maximum | LIBOR | Line of Credit | Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis point spread on variable rate (as a percent)		2.50%
Maximum | ABR | Line of Credit | Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis point spread on variable rate (as a percent)		1.50%

Debt - Convertible Debt (Detail

Debt - Convertible Debt (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	Apr. 09, 2018USD ($)$ / shares	Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)shares	Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)consecutive_trading_daytrading_dayshares	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Convertible debt		$ 166,776	$ 166,776	$ 0
Debt conversion, converted instrument, shares issued | shares		0	0
Convertible Debt | Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt, stated percentage	4.75%
Aggregate principal amount	$ 175,000
Additional aggregate principal	26,300
Convertible aggregate principal value	201,300	$ 201,300	$ 201,300
Proceeds from debt	$ 195,200
Conversion ratio	0.0824572
Conversion price | $ / shares	$ 12.13
Convertible debt		171,100	$ 171,100
Discount rate			7.94%
Carrying amount of equity component		30,200	$ 30,200
Debt issuance costs, net		6,300	6,300
Debt issuance costs allocated to debt, net		5,400	5,400
Debt issuance costs allocated to equity, net		900	$ 900
Debt instrument, term			6 years
Unamortized discount		29,300	$ 29,300
Interest Expense, Debt		2,200	2,200
Amortization of debt issuance costs		200	200
Amortization of debt discount		$ 900	$ 900
Effective interest rate		7.91%	7.91%
Scenario One | Convertible Debt | Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Threshold trading days | trading_day			20
Threshold percentage of stock price trigger			130.00%
Scenario Two | Convertible Debt | Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Threshold consecutive trading days | consecutive_trading_day			10
Threshold percentage of stock price trigger			98.00%

Pensions and other postretire39

Pensions and other postretirement benefit plans - Retirement Plan Costs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017
Pension Plans
Company's pension costs
Total expense (benefit) for retirement plans	$ 333	$ 6,260	$ (2,333)	$ 11,722
Post-retirement Benefits Other Than Pension
Company's pension costs
Total expense (benefit) for retirement plans	(427)	(100)	(377)	110
Operating Expense | Pension Plans
Company's pension costs
Service cost - benefits earned during the period	576	400	1,178	1,220
Operating Expense | Post-retirement Benefits Other Than Pension
Company's pension costs
Service cost - benefits earned during the period	33	26	88	78
Non-Operating Expense (Credit) | Pension Plans
Company's pension costs
Interest cost on benefit obligation	26,598	27,595	52,019	55,374
Expected return on plan assets	(44,476)	(41,961)	(89,025)	(84,378)
Amortization of prior service cost	483	1,675	962	3,335
Amortization of actuarial loss (gain)	17,152	18,551	32,533	36,171
Total expense (benefit) for retirement plans	(243)	5,860	(3,511)	10,502
Non-Operating Expense (Credit) | Post-retirement Benefits Other Than Pension
Company's pension costs
Interest cost on benefit obligation	699	863	1,482	1,804
Expected return on plan assets	0	0	0	0
Amortization of prior service cost	(884)	(916)	(1,767)	(1,824)
Amortization of actuarial loss (gain)	(275)	(73)	(180)	52
Total expense (benefit) for retirement plans	$ (460)	$ (126)	$ (465)	$ 32

Pensions and other postretire40

Pensions and other postretirement benefit plans - Narrative (Details) £ in Millions, $ in Millions	1 Months Ended	5 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018GBP (£)	May 31, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated future employer contributions				$ 25
Actuarial gain due to plan remeasurement				33.1
Net prior service credit due to plan remeasurement				103.4
Funded status of pension plan				54.4
Fair value of plan assets				785.2
Benefit obligations of pension plan				730.8
Newsquest
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Rate of return on plan assets	4.60%	5.70%
Discount rate for plan assets	2.80%	2.65%
Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Contribution to the defined benefit plans			$ 42.4
Pension Plans | Gannett Retirement Plan
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated future employer contributions in 2019				25
Estimated future employer contributions in 2020				25
Estimated future employer contributions in 2021				$ 15
Post-retirement Benefits Other Than Pension
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Contribution to the defined benefit plans			$ 5.1
U.K. Pension Plan | Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated future employer contributions | £	£ 28.2
Estimated future employer contributions in 2019 | £	24
Estimated future employer contributions in 2020 | £	19.8
Estimated future employer contributions in 2021 | £	£ 18

Income taxes - Narrative (Detai

Income taxes - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Domestic production deduction limitation		$ 1
Document Period End Date		Jun. 30, 2018
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, valuation allowance	$ 1.7
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate	28.6	$ 28.6	$ 30.1
Accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits	0.9	0.9	$ 0.9
Estimated decrease in gross unrecognized tax positions within the next 12 months, maximum	2.4	2.4
Tax rate change adjustment	$ 2.1	$ 2.1

- Schedule of Pre-Tax Income an

- Schedule of Pre-Tax Income and Income Tax Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Document Period End Date			Jun. 30, 2018
Pre-tax net income	$ 16,207	$ 1,749	$ 15,701	$ (5,360)
Income tax expense	$ (99)	$ 2,236	$ (228)	$ (2,794)
Effective tax rate				52.10%

Supplemental equity informati43

Supplemental equity information - Equity Activity (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands, shares in Millions	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			$ 1,017,395	$ 856,761
Comprehensive income:
Net income (loss)	$ 16,306	$ (487)	15,929	(2,566)
Other comprehensive income	91,723	13,245	111,598	25,586
Comprehensive income	108,029	12,758	127,527	23,020
Dividends declared			(36,131)	(36,364)
Convertible debt conversion feature			21,561	0
Stock-based compensation			9,221	10,059
Other activity			(5,173)	(2,986)
Ending Balance	$ 1,134,400	$ 850,490	$ 1,134,400	$ 850,490
Common Stock
Comprehensive income:
Shares issued during period (in shares)			1.2	0.8

Supplemental equity informati44

Supplemental equity information - Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			$ 1,017,395	$ 856,761
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	$ 91,723	$ 13,245	111,598	25,586
Ending Balance	1,134,400	850,490	1,134,400	850,490
Retirement Plans
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			(1,000,790)	(1,183,196)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications			101,753	(12,639)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss			23,781	24,268
Other comprehensive income, net of tax			125,534	11,629
Ending Balance	(875,256)	(1,171,567)	(875,256)	(1,171,567)
Foreign Currency Translation
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			344,273	300,284
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications			(13,936)	13,957
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss			0	0
Other comprehensive income, net of tax			(13,936)	13,957
Ending Balance	330,337	314,241	330,337	314,241
Total
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			(656,517)	(882,912)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications			87,817	1,318
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss			23,781	24,268
Other comprehensive income, net of tax			111,598	25,586
Ending Balance	$ (544,919)	$ (857,326)	$ (544,919)	$ (857,326)

Supplemental equity informati45

Supplemental equity information - Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Details) - Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017
Net Prior Service Credit
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Total reclassifications, before tax	$ (401)	$ 759	$ (805)	$ 1,511
Actuarial Loss
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Total reclassifications, before tax	16,877	18,478	32,353	36,223
Retirement Plans
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Total reclassifications, before tax	16,476	19,237	31,548	37,734
Income tax effect	(4,064)	(6,867)	(7,767)	(13,466)
Total reclassifications, net of tax	$ 12,412	$ 12,370	$ 23,781	$ 24,268

Fair value measurement - Narrat

Fair value measurement - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Jun. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets held for sale	$ 24.3	$ 18.9

Commitments, contingencies an47

Commitments, contingencies and other matters - Narrative (Details)	1 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2014USD ($)
Minimum
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Statutory penalty per incident	$ 500
Maximum
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Statutory penalty per incident	$ 1,500

Earnings (loss) per share - Nar

Earnings (loss) per share - Narrative (Details) - $ / shares shares in Thousands	Jul. 25, 2018	May 08, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018
Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Common stock equivalents excluded from computation of diluted loss per share (in shares)			209	719
Dividend declared per common share (in dollars per share)		$ 0.16
Subsequent Event
Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Dividend declared per common share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.16

Earnings (loss) per share - (De

Earnings (loss) per share - (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Net income (loss)	$ 16,306	$ (487)	$ 15,929	$ (2,566)
Weighted average number of shares outstanding - basic (in shares)	112,946	113,652	112,852	113,574
Effect of dilutive securities - Stock options (in shares)	76	0	83	0
Weighted average number of shares outstanding - diluted (in shares)	116,219	113,652	116,035	113,574
Loss per share – basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.14	$ 0	$ 0.14	$ (0.02)
Loss per share – diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.14	$ 0	$ 0.14	$ (0.02)
Restricted stock units
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Effect of dilutive securities - RSU and PSU (in shares)	2,243	0	2,245	0
Performance share units
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Effect of dilutive securities - RSU and PSU (in shares)	954	0	855	0

Segment reporting - Narrative (

Segment reporting - Narrative (Details)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018segment
Publishing
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of operating segments	2

Segment reporting (Details)

Segment reporting (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Advertising revenue	$ 420,163	$ 454,107	$ 830,475	$ 896,588
Circulation	263,806	273,676	530,392	556,962
Other revenue	46,799	46,724	92,852	94,414
Total operating revenues	730,768	774,507	1,453,719	1,547,964
Adjusted EBITDA	85,599	83,654	140,667	153,335
Publishing
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Advertising revenue	319,728	368,181	633,552	733,149
Circulation	263,806	273,676	530,392	556,962
Other revenue	44,990	45,683	89,067	92,353
Adjusted EBITDA	94,358	104,120	172,116	195,784
ReachLocal
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Advertising revenue	100,435	85,926	196,923	163,491
Circulation	0	0	0	0
Other revenue	0	0	0	0
Adjusted EBITDA	10,271	1,217	16,480	4,363
Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Advertising revenue	0	0	0	(52)
Circulation	0	0	0	0
Other revenue	1,809	1,041	3,785	2,061
Adjusted EBITDA	(19,030)	(21,683)	(47,929)	(46,812)
Operating Segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues	730,768	774,507	1,453,719	1,547,964
Operating Segments | Publishing
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues	644,551	692,180	1,283,211	1,387,104
Operating Segments | ReachLocal
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues	100,435	85,926	196,923	163,491
Operating Segments | Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total operating revenues	1,809	1,041	3,785	2,009
Intersegment Eliminations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Advertising revenue	(16,027)	(4,640)	(30,200)	(4,640)
Total operating revenues	(16,027)	(4,640)	(30,200)	(4,640)
Intersegment Eliminations | Publishing
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Advertising revenue	16,027	4,640	30,200	4,640
Intersegment Eliminations | ReachLocal
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Advertising revenue	0	0	0	0
Intersegment Eliminations | Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Advertising revenue	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Segment reporting - Reconciliat

Segment reporting - Reconciliation of EBITDA to Operating Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 16,306	$ (487)	$ 15,929	$ (2,566)
Provision (benefit) for income taxes	(99)	2,236	(228)	(2,794)
Interest expense	5,935	3,454	10,413	7,709
Other non-operating items, net	(4,042)	5,301	(8,353)	9,188
Operating income	18,100	10,504	17,761	11,537
Depreciation and amortization	38,378	51,850	78,630	98,667
Restructuring costs	12,611	9,827	21,910	22,378
Asset impairment charges	10,483	14,719	14,239	18,497
Acquisition-related items	3,022	1,570	3,946	2,593
Other items	3,005	(4,816)	4,181	(337)
Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP basis)	$ 85,599	$ 83,654	$ 140,667	$ 153,335

Subsequent events - Narrative (

Subsequent events - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 25, 2017
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired		$ (1,401)	$ 31,459
WordStream | Subsequent Event
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired	$ 130,000
Additional consideration payable	$ 20,000