TEGNA (TGNA) 10-Q 30 Jul 14 2014 Q2 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]	'
Entity Registrant Name	'GANNETT CO INC /DE/
Entity Central Index Key	'0000039899
Document Type	'10-Q
Document Period End Date	29-Jun-14
Amendment Flag	'false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q2
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-28
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock Shares Outstanding	225,647,176
Trading Symbol	'GCI

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Jun. 29, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets	'		'
Cash and cash equivalents	$430,666		$469,203
Trade receivables, less allowance for doubtful accounts (2014 - $17,666; 2013 - $15,275)	773,099		834,052
Other receivables	26,832		28,592
Inventories	55,050		49,950
Deferred income taxes	18,639		21,245
Assets held for sale	54,458		395,851
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	103,883		124,592
Total current assets	1,462,627		1,923,485
Property, plant and equipment	'		'
Cost	3,956,247		4,007,879
Less accumulated depreciation	-2,357,190		-2,338,247
Net property, plant and equipment	1,599,057		1,669,632
Intangible and other assets	'		'
Goodwill	3,804,551		3,790,472
Indefinite-lived and amortizable intangible assets, less accumulated amortization	1,466,718		1,477,231
Deferred income taxes	59,722		0
Investments and other assets	754,890		379,886
Total intangible and other assets	6,085,881		5,647,589
Total assets (a)	9,147,565	[1]	9,240,706	[1]
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY	'		'
Accounts payable and current portion of film contracts payable	173,388		215,300
Accrued expenses	437,161		499,162
Dividends payable	45,433		45,645
Income taxes	101,754		17,791
Deferred income	241,428		223,404
Current portion of long-term debt	5,890		5,890
Total current liabilities	1,005,054		1,007,192
Income taxes	47,985		49,748
Deferred income taxes	695,250		587,904
Long-term debt	3,446,737		3,707,010
Post-retirement medical and life insurance liabilities	88,173		129,078
Pension liabilities	548,932		632,195
Other noncurrent liabilities	212,949		218,168
Total noncurrent liabilities	5,040,026		5,324,103
Total liabilities (a)	6,045,080	[1]	6,331,295	[1]
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	17,904		14,618
Commitments and contingent liabilities (See Note 13)	'		'
Gannett Co., Inc. shareholders' equity	'		'
Preferred stock of $1 par value per share, 2,000,000 shares authorized, none issued	0		0
Common stock of $1 par value per share, 800,000,000 shares authorized, 324,418,632 shares issued	324,419		324,419
Additional paid-in capital	561,288		552,368
Retained earnings	7,898,034		7,720,903
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-458,542		-494,055
Stockholders' Equity before Treasury Stock, Total	8,325,199		8,103,635
Less treasury stock, at cost (2014 - 98,771,456 shares; 2013 - 96,849,744 shares)	-5,467,088		-5,410,537
Total Gannett Co., Inc. shareholders’ equity	2,858,111		2,693,098
Noncontrolling interests	226,470		201,695
Total equity	3,084,581		2,894,793
Total liabilities and equity	$9,147,565		$9,240,706
[1]	(a) Our consolidated assets as of June 29, 2014 include total assets of $57.5 million of variable interest entities (VIEs) and our consolidated assets as of December 29, 2013 include total assets of $44.7 million of VIEs. These assets can only be used to settle the obligations of the VIEs. Consolidated liabilities as of June 29, 2014 include total liabilities of $4.6 million of the VIEs and our consolidated liabilities as of December 29, 2013 include total liabilities of $2.7 million of the VIEs. The VIEs’ creditors have no recourse to us regarding these liabilities. See further description in Note 1 - Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies.

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance1

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Jun. 29, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]	'	'
Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable	$17,666	$15,275
Preferred stock, par value	$1	$1
Preferred stock, Authorized shares	2,000,000	2,000,000
Preferred stock, Issued shares	0	0
Common stock, par value	$1	$1
Common stock, Authorized shares	800,000,000	800,000,000
Common stock, Issued shares	324,418,632	324,418,632
Treasury stock, shares	98,771,456	96,849,744
Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets	57,474	44,746
Variable Interest Entity Consolidated Carrying Amount, Liabilities Subject to Recourse	$4,649	$2,730

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Net Operating Revenues:	'	'	'	'
Broadcasting	$398,258	$211,962	$780,526	$403,542
Publishing advertising	530,183	562,476	1,031,483	1,088,975
Publishing circulation	277,851	279,655	559,927	565,627
All other Publishing	59,331	62,100	118,018	120,862
Digital	194,381	186,506	374,116	361,428
Total	1,460,004	1,302,699	2,864,070	2,540,434
Operating Expenses:	'	'	'	'
Cost of sales and operating expenses, exclusive of depreciation	775,627	726,869	1,543,159	1,446,593
Selling, general and administrative expenses, exclusive of depreciation	353,779	320,615	708,992	634,730
Depreciation	44,850	38,467	89,614	77,393
Amortization of intangible assets	14,471	9,368	32,214	18,496
Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges	28,775	4,498	43,595	9,283
Total	1,217,502	1,099,817	2,417,574	2,186,495
Operating income	242,502	202,882	446,496	353,939
Non-operating (expense) income:	'	'	'	'
Equity income in unconsolidated investees, net	156,540	9,424	165,031	17,218
Interest expense	-64,148	-36,174	-133,796	-71,579
Other non-operating items	-2,982	-9,791	-23,730	-11,374
Total	89,410	-36,541	7,505	-65,735
Income before income taxes	331,912	166,341	454,001	288,204
Provision for income taxes	106,000	39,600	158,500	45,000
Net income	225,912	126,741	295,501	243,204
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	-17,445	-13,121	-27,875	-25,019
Net income attributable to Gannett Co., Inc.	$208,467	$113,620	$267,626	$218,185
Net income per share – basic	$0.92	$0.50	$1.18	$0.95
Net income per share – diluted	$0.90	$0.48	$1.15	$0.93
Dividends declared per share	$0.20	$0.20	$0.40	$0.40

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme1

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net income	$225,912	$126,741	$295,501	$243,204
Redeemable noncontrolling interests (income not available to shareholders)	-1,395	28	-1,850	-246
Other comprehensive income, before tax:	'	'	'	'
Foreign currency translation adjustments	12,809	-287	17,462	-32,873
Pension and other postretirement benefit items:	'	'	'	'
Amortization of prior service credit, net	-1,215	-384	-1,700	-806
Amortization of actuarial loss	11,798	16,275	23,233	32,135
Remeasurement of post-retirement benefits liability	0	0	33,907	0
Other	-9,297	-155	-15,413	18,931
Pension and other post-retirement benefit items	1,286	15,736	40,027	50,260
Other	819	-77	1,061	-1,863
Other comprehensive income, before tax	14,914	15,372	58,550	15,524
Income tax effect related to components of other comprehensive income	-5,441	-5,886	-21,976	-16,017
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	9,473	9,486	36,574	-493
Comprehensive income	233,990	136,255	330,225	242,465
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax	-16,869	-13,072	-27,086	-22,910
Comprehensive income attributable to Gannett Co., Inc.	$217,121	$123,183	$303,139	$219,555

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme2

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Cash flows from operating activities:	'	'
Net income	$295,501	$243,204
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flow from operating activities:	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	121,828	95,889
Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges	43,595	10,202
Pension contributions, net of pension expense	-64,179	-75,751
Equity income in unconsolidated investees, net	-165,031	-17,218
Stock-based compensation – equity awards	17,208	15,877
Change in other assets and liabilities, net	106,017	-48,262
Net cash flow from operating activities	354,939	223,941
Cash flows from investing activities:	'	'
Purchase of property, plant and equipment	-56,905	-48,898
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired	-121,956	-18,134
Payments for investments	-5,318	-2,379
Proceeds from investments	163,315	29,365
Proceeds from sale of certain assets	66,617	6,586
Net cash flow from (used for) investing activities	45,753	-33,460
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'
Payments of borrowings under revolving credit agreements, net	0	-79,000
Payments of unsecured fixed rate notes	-250,000	0
Payments of unsecured floating rate term loans	-17,925	0
Dividends paid	-90,848	-91,695
Cost of common shares repurchased	-75,815	-41,385
Proceeds from issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options	10,362	13,132
Distribution to noncontrolling interests	-877	-218
Deferred payments for acquisitions	-14,481	-3,693
Net cash used for financing activities	-439,584	-202,859
Effect of currency exchange rate change on cash	355	-1,155
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents	-38,537	-13,533
Balance of cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	469,203	175,030
Balance of cash and cash equivalents at end of period	430,666	161,497
Supplemental cash flow information:	'	'
Cash paid for taxes, net of refunds	45,284	73,683
Cash paid for interest	122,989	63,055
Cash flow, non-cash investing and financing activities:	'	'
Assets-held-for-sale proceeds	381,882	0
Capital Expenditures	$6,565	$0

Basis_of_presentation_and_summ

Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]	'
	Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies
	Basis of presentation: Our accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions for Form 10-Q and, therefore, do not include all information and footnotes which are normally included in the Form 10-K and annual report to shareholders. In our opinion, the financial statements reflect all adjustments, which are of a normal recurring nature, that are necessary for a fair presentation of results for the interim periods presented.
	Variable Interest Entities (VIE): A variable interest entity is an entity that lacks equity investors or whose equity investors lack a controlling interest in the entity through their equity investments. We consolidate VIEs when we are the primary beneficiary. In determining whether we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE for financial reporting purposes, we consider whether we have the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the economic performance of the VIE and whether we are obligated to absorb losses or the right to receive returns that would be significant to the VIE.
	We determined that the entities holding four of our television stations constitute VIEs and the various agreements that we entered into with these entities represent variable interests. We evaluated the arrangements to determine whether we are considered the primary beneficiary, and as a result of this evaluation, we consolidated four stations in the Louisville, KY; Portland, OR; and Tucson, AZ, television markets for the quarter ending June 29, 2014.
	The carrying amounts and classification of the assets and liabilities of the consolidated VIEs mentioned above and included in our consolidated balance sheets were as follows:
	In thousands	Jun. 29, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013
	Current assets	$	19,144	$	4,677
	Plant, property and equipment, net	7,375		8,061
	Intangible and other assets	30,955		32,008
	Total assets	$	57,474	$	44,746
	Current liabilities	$	9,590	$	7,827
	Noncurrent liabilities	32,204		34,173
	Total liabilities	$	41,794	$	42,000
	Recent accounting standards: In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2014-09 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) which supersedes the guidance in Revenue Recognition (Topic 605). The core principle of ASU 2014-09 is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. New disclosures about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers are also required.
	We are required to adopt ASU 2014-09 in the first quarter of 2017 and early application is not permitted. However, we will need to apply the standard to 2015 and 2016. We can choose to apply the standard using either the full retrospective approach or a modified retrospective approach where we will recognize a cumulative catch up adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings. We are currently assessing the impact of adopting this pronouncement and the transition method we will use.
	In July 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-11 Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, A Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists. ASU 2013-11 provides guidance on financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit (UTB) when a net operating loss (NOL) carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists. Under ASU 2013-11, an entity must present a UTB, or a portion of a UTB, in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset (DTA) for an NOL carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward except when:
	•	An NOL carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward is unavailable as of the reporting date under the tax law of the jurisdiction.
	•	The entity does not intend to use the DTA for this purpose (provided that the tax law permits a choice).
	If either of these conditions exists, an entity should present a UTB in the financial statements as a liability and should not net the UTB with a DTA. ASU 2013-11 is effective for public entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2013, and interim periods within those years. We were required to adopt ASU 2013-11 in the first quarter of 2014, and the impact on our consolidated results of operations, financial position and cash flows was insignificant.

Acquisitions_and_dispositions

Acquisitions and dispositions	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Acquisitions Investments and Dispositions [Abstract]	'
Acquisitions Investments and Dispositions	'
	Acquisitions and dispositions
	In March 2014, Classified Ventures, in which we own a 26.9% interest, agreed to sell Apartments.com to CoStar Group, Inc. for $585 million.  This transaction closed on April 1, 2014, early in our second quarter; as a result of our ownership stake, we received a special $154.6 million distribution from Classified Ventures after the closing of this transaction.
	Early in the second quarter, our subsidiary CareerBuilder acquired Broadbean. Broadbean is a leading international job distribution, candidate sourcing and big data analytics software company. Broadbean is headquartered in London, United Kingdom and has offices in the U.S., France, Germany, the Netherlands and Australia. The acquisition unites two technology companies which specialize in sourcing and recruitment.
	On February 28, 2014, we completed the previously announced sale of KMOV-TV in St. Louis, MO, to Meredith Corporation, following the receipt of regulatory approvals. As part of the sale, Sander Media conveyed to Meredith Corporation substantially all of its assets used to operate KMOV-TV, which Sander Media acquired when the Gannett-Belo transaction closed on December 23, 2013. We conveyed certain other assets that are needed to provide services to KMOV-TV, which we also acquired from Belo Corp.
	On June 19, 2014, we announced, together with Sander Media LLC, that we completed the previously announced sale of KTVK-TV and KASW-TV in Phoenix, AZ, to Meredith Corporation, following receipt of regulatory approvals. As part of the sale, Sander Media conveyed to Meredith all of the assets used in the operation of both stations, which Sander Media acquired upon completion of the Belo transaction last December 2013. We also conveyed certain other assets that we used to provide services for both stations, which were also acquired from the Belo transaction. At the closing, Meredith simultaneously conveyed KASW-TV to SagamoreHill of Phoenix, LLC, which, through its affiliates, owns and operates two television stations in two markets. The total sale price of the Phoenix and St. Louis stations was $407.5 million. The majority of this amount is held in escrow at the end of the second quarter. We used a portion of the proceeds in a tax efficient structure to pay for the acquisition of six London Broadcasting Company television stations from SunTX Capital Partners which closed early in our third quarter.

Facility_consolidation_and_ass

Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]	'
Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges	'
	Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges
	We evaluated the carrying values of property, plant and equipment at certain publishing businesses as a result of our ongoing facility consolidation efforts. We revised the useful lives of certain assets to reflect the use of those assets over a shortened period as a result. Certain assets classified as held-for-sale according to Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 360 resulted in us recognizing non-cash charges in both 2014 and 2013 as we reduced the carrying values to equal the fair value less cost to dispose. The fair values were based on the estimated prices of similar assets. We also recorded non-cash impairment charges to reduce the book value of goodwill and other intangible assets. The goodwill impairment and other intangible non-cash charges resulted from our application of the interim impairment testing provisions included within the goodwill subtopic ASC Topic 350. We are required to test goodwill and other indefinite lived assets for impairment annually.  Our annual measurement date for testing is the first day of the fourth quarter.  However, because of softening business conditions at two of our smaller Publishing Segment reporting units, we updated our testing as of the beginning of the second quarter of 2014. Our testing showed that the implied fair value of the goodwill was less than the recorded value.  Therefore, we recognized a charge to reduce the carrying value of goodwill to the implied fair value. We recorded pre-tax charges for facility consolidations and asset impairments of $28.8 million in the second quarter and $43.6 million for the year-to-date period in 2014. For 2013, we recorded $4.5 million pre-tax charges for the second quarter and $9.3 million for the year-to-date period. We also recorded a $1.0 million non-operating pre-tax charge to write off certain broadcasting assets that were donated in the second quarter of 2014 and a $0.9 million non-operating pre-tax charge to write off certain publishing assets in the first quarter of 2013.

Goodwill_and_other_intangible_

Goodwill and other intangible assets	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Goodwill and other intangible assets	'
	Goodwill and other intangible assets
	The following table displays goodwill, indefinite-lived intangible assets, and amortizable intangible assets at June 29, 2014 and December 29, 2013:
	In thousands	Jun. 29, 2014						Dec. 29, 2013
		Gross			Accumulated Amortization			Gross			Accumulated Amortization
	Goodwill	$	3,804,551		$	—		$	3,790,472		$	—
	Indefinite-lived intangibles:
	Television station FCC licenses	1,091,204			—			1,091,204			—
	Mastheads and trade names	82,903			—			82,570			—
	Amortizable intangible assets:
	Customer relationships	302,817			194,852			290,845			177,515
	Other	223,650			39,004			213,790			23,663
	Customer relationships include subscriber lists and advertiser relationships while other intangibles primarily include retransmission agreements, network affiliations, internally developed technology, patents and amortizable trade names.
	The following table summarizes the changes in our net goodwill balance through June 29, 2014:
	In thousands	Broadcasting			Publishing			Digital			Total
	Balance at Dec. 29, 2013:
	Goodwill	$	2,543,333		$	7,807,416		$	755,528		$	11,106,277
	Accumulated impairment losses	—			(7,187,535		)	(128,270		)	(7,315,805		)
	Net balance at Dec. 29, 2013	2,543,333			619,881			627,258			3,790,472
	Activity during the period:
	Acquisitions and adjustments	(16,430		)	4,578			33,233			21,381
	Impairment	—			(15,310		)	—			(15,310		)
	Foreign currency exchange rate changes	—			6,666			1,342			8,008
	Total	(16,430		)	(4,066		)	34,575			14,079
	Balance at Jun. 29, 2014:
	Goodwill	2,526,903			7,897,708			790,103			11,214,714
	Accumulated impairment losses	—			(7,281,893		)	(128,270		)	(7,410,163		)
	Net balance at Jun. 29, 2014	$	2,526,903		$	615,815		$	661,833		$	3,804,551
	On December 23, 2013, we completed our acquisition of Belo. The initial purchase price allocation is preliminary based upon all information available to us at the present time and is subject to change, and such changes could be material. We continue to review underlying assumptions and valuation techniques utilized to calculate the fair value of primarily the indefinite-lived and amortizable intangible assets, property, plant and equipment, investments and deferred income taxes. Certain immaterial adjustments have been made since the initial allocation in the fourth quarter of 2013.

Longterm_debt

Long-term debt	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Long-term debt	'
	Long-term debt
	Our long-term debt is summarized below:
	In thousands	Jun. 29, 2014			Dec. 29, 2013
	Unsecured floating rate term loan due quarterly through August 2018	$	139,000		$	154,800
	VIE unsecured floating rate term loans due quarterly through December 2018	37,145			39,270
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 8.75% due November 2014	250,000			250,000
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 10% due June 2015	66,568			66,568
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 6.375% due September 2015	250,000			250,000
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 10% due April 2016	193,429			193,429
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 9.375% due November 2017	—			250,000
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 7.125% due September 2018	250,000			250,000
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 5.125% due October 2019	600,000			600,000
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 5.125% due July 2020	600,000			600,000
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 6.375% due October 2023	650,000			650,000
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 7.75% due June 2027	200,000			200,000
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 7.25% due September 2027	240,000			240,000
	Total principal long-term debt	3,476,142			3,744,067
	Other (fair market value adjustments and discounts)	(23,515		)	(31,167		)
	Total long-term debt	3,452,627			3,712,900
	Less current portion of long-term debt maturities of VIE loans	5,890			5,890
	Long-term debt, net of current portion	$	3,446,737		$	3,707,010
	For the first six months of 2014, our long-term debt decreased by $260.3 million as a result of our early repayment of the 9.375% notes due in 2017. We redeemed the notes by paying 104.688% of the outstanding principal amount in accordance with the original terms. The early redemption of these notes will save us approximately $12 million in interest expense for the remainder of 2014. On June 29, 2014, we had unused borrowing capacity of $1.27 billion under our revolving credit agreement that expires in August 2018.

Retirement_plans

Retirement plans (Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member])	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Retirement plans	'
	Retirement plans
	We, along with our subsidiaries, have various retirement plans, including plans established under collective bargaining agreements. The Gannett Retirement Plan (GRP) is our principal retirement plan. Our retirement plan costs include costs for qualified and nonqualified plans and are presented in the following table:
	In thousands	Thirteen Weeks Ended						Twenty-six Weeks Ended
		Jun. 29, 2014			Jun. 30, 2013			Jun. 29, 2014			Jun. 30, 2013
	Service cost-benefits earned during the period	$	877		$	1,756		$	2,708		$	3,881
	Interest cost on benefit obligation	42,372			35,071			84,738			70,254
	Expected return on plan assets	(59,174		)	(49,299		)	(117,748		)	(98,842		)
	Amortization of prior service cost	1,901			1,898			3,783			3,776
	Amortization of actuarial loss	11,674			16,190			22,901			31,550
	Expense (credit) for company-sponsored retirement plans	$	(2,350	)	$	5,616		$	(3,618	)	$	10,619
	For the twenty-six weeks ended June 29, 2014, we contributed $41.0 million to the GRP, $6.6 million to the G.B. Dealey Retirement Plan (Dealey Plan) and $6.9 million to the Newsquest Pension Scheme in the U.K. (Newsquest Plan). We assumed the Dealey Plan as part of the Belo acquisition that was completed on December 23, 2013. For the remainder of 2014 and based on current funding requirements, we expect to contribute $28.0 million to the GRP, $8.9 million to the Dealey Plan and approximately $7.4 million to the Newsquest Plan.

Postretirement_benefits_other_

Postretirement benefits other than pension (Other Postretirement Benefit Plan, Defined Benefit [Member])	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Other Postretirement Benefit Plan, Defined Benefit [Member]	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Postretirement benefits other than pension	'
	Post-retirement benefits other than pension
	We provide health care and life insurance benefits to certain retired employees who meet age and service requirements. Most of our retirees contribute to the cost of these benefits and retiree contributions are increased as actual benefit costs increase. Our policy is to fund benefits as claims and premiums are paid. In March 2014, we adopted changes to the retiree medical plan that were effective July 1, 2014. Beginning on that date, we will pay a stipend to certain Medicare-eligible Gannett retirees. This stipend will be accessible through a Healthcare Reimbursement Account and retirees will be able to select from a variety of plans offered through the individual Medicare marketplace. As a result of this change, we remeasured the related post-retirement benefit obligation during the first quarter of 2014, and recorded a reduction to the liability of $33.9 million (with a corresponding adjustment to “Accumulated other comprehensive loss”). Post-retirement benefit costs for health care and life insurance are presented in the following table:
	In thousands	Thirteen Weeks Ended						Twenty-six Weeks Ended
		Jun. 29, 2014			Jun. 30, 2013			Jun. 29, 2014			Jun. 30, 2013
	Service cost-benefits earned during the period	$	68		$	89		$	186		$	264
	Interest cost on net benefit obligation	1,030			1,303			2,515			2,828
	Amortization of prior service credit	(3,116		)	(2,282		)	(5,483		)	(4,582		)
	Amortization of actuarial loss	124			85			332			585
	Net periodic post-retirement benefit credit	$	(1,894	)	$	(805	)	$	(2,450	)	$	(905	)

Income_taxes

Income taxes	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income taxes	'
	Income taxes
	The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate was approximately $45.0 million as of June 29, 2014 and $46.5 million as of December 29, 2013. The following table summarizes the activity related to unrecognized tax benefits, excluding the federal tax benefit of state tax deductions:
	In thousands	Unrecognized Tax Benefits
	Balance at Dec. 29, 2013	$	57,324
	Changes in unrecognized tax benefits:
	Additions based on tax positions related to the current year	3,744
	Additions for tax positions of prior years	75
	Reductions for tax positions of prior years	(4,315		)
	Reductions due to lapse of statutes of limitations	(574		)
	Balance at Jun. 29, 2014	$	56,254
	We recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense. Interest income attributable to overpayment of income tax is recognized as a component of income tax expense. We recognized a net benefit from the reversal of interest and penalty expense of $1.2 million in the second quarter of 2014 and $4.6 million during the second quarter of 2013. We recognized a net benefit from the reversal of interest and penalty expense of $2.5 million during the first six months of 2014 and $17.4 million during the first six months of 2013. The net interest and penalty benefits recognized in the second quarter and first six months of 2014 and 2013 are primarily from the release of uncertain tax position reserves due to audit settlements and the lapse of the applicable statutes of limitations. The amount of net accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain tax benefits as of June 29, 2014, was approximately $9.0 million and as of December 29, 2013, was approximately $11.5 million.
	We file income tax returns in the U.S. and various state and foreign jurisdictions. The 2010 through 2012 tax years remain subject to IRS examination. The 2009 through 2012 tax years generally remain subject to examination by state authorities, and the 2012 tax year is subject to examination in the U.K. Tax years before 2009 remain subject to examination by certain states primarily due to the filing of amended tax returns as a result of the settlement of the IRS examination for these years and due to ongoing audits.
	It is reasonably possible that the amount of unrecognized benefits with respect to certain of our unrecognized tax positions will significantly 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 $8.2 million within the next 12 months primarily due to lapses of statutes of limitations and settlement of ongoing audits in various jurisdictions.

Supplemental_equity_informatio

Supplemental equity information	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Equity [Abstract]	'
Supplemental equity information	'
	Supplemental equity information
	The following table summarizes equity account activity for the twenty-six week periods ended June 29, 2014 and June 30, 2013:
	In thousands	Gannett Co., Inc. Shareholders’ Equity			Noncontrolling Interests			Total Equity
	Balance at Dec. 29, 2013	$	2,693,098		$	201,695		$	2,894,793
	Comprehensive income:
	Net income	267,626			27,875			295,501
	Redeemable noncontrolling interests (income not available to shareholders)	—			(1,850		)	(1,850		)
	Other comprehensive income	35,513			1,061			36,574
	Total comprehensive income	303,139			27,086			330,225
	Dividends declared	(90,495		)	—			(90,495		)
	Stock-based compensation	17,208			—			17,208
	Treasury shares acquired	(75,815		)	—			(75,815		)
	Other activity	10,976			(2,311		)	8,665
	Balance at Jun. 29, 2014	$	2,858,111		$	226,470		$	3,084,581
	Balance at Dec. 30, 2012	$	2,350,614		$	189,298		$	2,539,912
	Comprehensive income:
	Net income	218,185			25,019			243,204
	Redeemable noncontrolling interests (income not available to shareholders)	—			(246		)	(246		)
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	1,370			(1,863		)	(493		)
	Total comprehensive income	219,555			22,910			242,465
	Dividends declared	(91,485		)	—			(91,485		)
	Stock-based compensation	15,877			—			15,877
	Treasury shares acquired	(41,385		)	—			(41,385		)
	Other activity	11,728			(744		)	10,984
	Balance at Jun. 30, 2013	$	2,464,904		$	211,464		$	2,676,368
	In August 2012, our CareerBuilder subsidiary acquired 74% of Economic Modeling Specialists Intl. (EMSI), a software firm that specializes in employment data and labor market analytics. Shareholders for the remaining 26% of ownership hold put rights that permit them to put their equity interest to CareerBuilder. Since redemption of EMSI noncontrolling interest is outside of our control, the balance is presented on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets in the caption “Redeemable noncontrolling interests.”
	The following table summarizes the components of, and the changes in, “Accumulated other comprehensive loss” (net of tax and noncontrolling interests):
	In thousands	Retirement Plans			Foreign Currency Translation			Total
	Thirteen Weeks:
	Balance at Mar. 30, 2014	$	(899,026	)	$	431,830		$	(467,196	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(11,042		)	12,808			1,766
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	6,888			—			6,888
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	(4,154		)	12,808			8,654
	Balance at Jun. 29, 2014	$	(903,180	)	$	444,638		$	(458,542	)
	Balance at Mar. 31, 2013	$	(1,094,870	)	$	385,536		$	(709,334	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(120		)	(287		)	(407		)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	9,970			—			9,970
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	9,850			(287		)	9,563
	Balance at Jun. 30, 2013	$	(1,085,020	)	$	385,249		$	(699,771	)
	Twenty-six Weeks:
	Balance at Dec. 29, 2013	$	(921,232	)	$	427,177		$	(494,055	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	4,062			17,461			21,523
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	13,990			—			13,990
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	18,052			17,461			35,513
	Balance at Jun. 29, 2014	$	(903,180	)	$	444,638		$	(458,542	)
	Balance at Dec. 30, 2012	$	(1,119,263	)	$	418,122		$	(701,141	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	14,577			(32,873		)	(18,296		)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	19,666			—			19,666
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	34,243			(32,873		)	1,370
	Balance at Jun. 30, 2013	$	(1,085,020	)	$	385,249		$	(699,771	)
	Accumulated other comprehensive income components are included in computing net periodic post-retirement costs (see Notes 6 and 7 for more detail). Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive loss related to these post-retirement plans include the following:
	In thousands	Thirteen Weeks Ended						Twenty-six Weeks Ended
		Jun. 29, 2014			Jun. 30, 2013			Jun. 29, 2014			Jun. 30, 2013
	Amortization of prior service credit	$	(1,215	)	$	(384	)	$	(1,700	)	$	(806	)
	Amortization of actuarial loss	11,798			16,275			23,233			32,135
	Total reclassifications, before tax	10,583			15,891			21,533			31,329
	Income tax effect	(3,695		)	(5,921		)	(7,543		)	(11,663		)
	Total reclassifications, net of tax	$	6,888		$	9,970		$	13,990		$	19,666

Fair_value_measurement

Fair value measurement	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Compensation Related Costs [Abstract]	'
Fair value measurement	'
	Fair value measurement
	We measure and record in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements certain assets and liabilities at fair value.  ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement, establishes a hierarchy for those instruments measured at fair value that distinguishes between market data (observable inputs) and our own assumptions (unobservable inputs).  The hierarchy consists of three levels:
	Level 1 - Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;
	Level 2 - Inputs other than Level 1 inputs that are either directly or indirectly observable; and
	Level 3 - Unobservable inputs developed using our own estimates and assumptions, which reflect those that a market participant would use.
	The following table summarizes our assets and liabilities measured at fair value in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 29, 2014 and December 29, 2013:
	In thousands	Fair Value Measurements as of Jun. 29, 2014
		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Employee compensation related investments	$	30,950	$	—	$	—	$	30,950
	Sundry investments	36,024		—		—		36,024
	Total assets	$	66,974	$	—	$	—	$	66,974
	Contingent consideration payable	$	—	$	—	$	15,882	$	15,882
	Total liabilities	$	—	$	—	$	15,882	$	15,882
	In thousands	Fair Value Measurements as of Dec. 29, 2013
		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Employee compensation related investments	$	28,117	$	—	$	—	$	28,117
	Sundry investments	34,227		—		—		34,227
	Total assets	$	62,344	$	—	$	—	$	62,344
	Contingent consideration payable	$	—	$	—	$	32,267	$	32,267
	Total liabilities	$	—	$	—	$	32,267	$	32,267
	Under certain acquisition agreements, we have agreed to pay the sellers earn-outs based on achievement of future financial performance of the businesses. Contingent consideration payable in the table above represents the estimated fair value of future earn-outs payable under such agreements. The fair value of the contingent payments was measured based on the present value of the consideration expected to be transferred using a discounted cash flow analysis. The discount rate is a significant unobservable input in such present value computations. Discount rates ranged between 10% and 30% depending on the risk associated with the cash flows. Changes to the fair value of earn-outs are reflected in “Selling, general and administrative expenses” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income. For the twenty-six weeks ended June 29, 2014, the contingent consideration decreased by $16.4 million as a result of payments and adjustments to fair value.
	The fair value of our total long-term debt, based on the bid and ask quotes for the related debt (Level 2), totaled $3.68 billion at June 29, 2014 and $3.93 billion at December 29, 2013.
	During the second quarter of 2014, certain Publishing Segment goodwill assets were impaired as the implied fair value of the goodwill was less than the recorded value. Implied fair value of the goodwill assets totaled $6.2 million and we recognized a goodwill impairment charge of $15.3 million to reduce the carrying value to the implied fair value.

Business_segment_information

Business segment information	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Business segment information	'
	Business segment information
	Our reportable segments based on our management and internal reporting structures are Broadcasting, Publishing and Digital. The Broadcasting Segment at the end of the second quarter includes our 40 owned and serviced television stations. The Publishing Segment principally includes local domestic publishing operations, Newsquest operations in the U.K. and the USA TODAY group. The Digital Segment includes CareerBuilder, Shoplocal and PointRoll.
	In thousands	Thirteen Weeks Ended						Twenty-six Weeks Ended
		Jun. 29, 2014			Jun. 30, 2013			Jun. 29, 2014			Jun. 30, 2013
	Net Operating Revenues:
	Broadcasting	$	398,258		$	211,962		$	780,526		$	403,542
	Publishing	867,365			904,231			1,709,428			1,775,464
	Digital	194,381			186,506			374,116			361,428
	Total	$	1,460,004		$	1,302,699		$	2,864,070		$	2,540,434
	Operating Income (net of depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges):
	Broadcasting	$	171,322		$	98,092		$	325,871		$	181,768
	Publishing	53,239			85,192			96,227			145,329
	Digital	35,695			35,277			59,519			58,881
	Corporate	(17,754		)	(15,679		)	(35,121		)	(32,039		)
	Total	$	242,502		$	202,882		$	446,496		$	353,939
	Depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges:
	Broadcasting	$	20,621		$	6,974		$	47,815		$	13,909
	Publishing	53,123			31,415			89,714			63,651
	Digital	9,603			9,383			17,891			18,490
	Corporate	4,749			4,561			10,003			9,122
	Total	$	88,096		$	52,333		$	165,423		$	105,172

Earnings_per_share

Earnings per share	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Earnings per share	'
	Earnings per share
	Our earnings per share (basic and diluted) are presented below:
	In thousands, except per share data	Thirteen Weeks Ended				Twenty-six Weeks Ended
		Jun. 29, 2014		Jun. 30, 2013		Jun. 29, 2014		Jun. 30, 2013
	Net income attributable to Gannett Co., Inc.	$	208,467	$	113,620	$	267,626	$	218,185
	Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - basic	226,132		228,837		226,681		229,116
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Restricted stock	2,814		2,971		2,763		2,897
	Performance share units	2,212		1,734		1,725		1,797
	Stock options	948		1,094		1,018		1,056
	Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - diluted	232,106		234,636		232,187		234,866
	Net income per share - basic	$	0.92	$	0.5	$	1.18	$	0.95
	Net income per share - diluted	$	0.9	$	0.48	$	1.15	$	0.93
	The diluted earnings per share amounts exclude the effects of approximately 2.2 million stock options outstanding for the second quarter and year-to-date of 2014 and 6.2 million stock options outstanding for second quarter and year-to-date of 2013, as their inclusion would be anti-dilutive.

Commitments_Contingencies_and_

Commitments Contingencies and Other Matters	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Commitments, Contingencies and Other Matters	'
	Commitments, contingencies and other matters
	We, along with a number of our subsidiaries, are defendants in judicial and administrative proceedings involving matters incidental to their business. Management does not believe that any material liability exists as a result of these matters.

Subsequent_Events

Subsequent Events	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Subsequent Events [Abstract]	'
Subsequent Events [Text Block]	'
	Subsequent events
	On July 8, 2014, we completed the previously announced acquisition of six of London Broadcasting Company’s television stations in Texas for approximately $215.0 million in an all-cash transaction. The acquisition includes KCEN (NBC) in Waco-Temple-Bryan, KYTX (CBS) in Tyler-Longview, KIII (ABC) in Corpus Christi, KBMT (ABC) and its digital sub-channel KJAC (NBC) in Beaumont-Port Arthur, KXVA (FOX) in Abilene-Sweetheart and KIDY (FOX) in San Angelo.

Basis_of_presentation_and_summ1

Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies (Policies)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	Basis of presentation: Our accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions for Form 10-Q and, therefore, do not include all information and footnotes which are normally included in the Form 10-K and annual report to shareholders. In our opinion, the financial statements reflect all adjustments, which are of a normal recurring nature, that are necessary for a fair presentation of results for the interim periods presented.
Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity, Policy	'
	Variable Interest Entities (VIE): A variable interest entity is an entity that lacks equity investors or whose equity investors lack a controlling interest in the entity through their equity investments. We consolidate VIEs when we are the primary beneficiary. In determining whether we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE for financial reporting purposes, we consider whether we have the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the economic performance of the VIE and whether we are obligated to absorb losses or the right to receive returns that would be significant to the VIE.
	We determined that the entities holding four of our television stations constitute VIEs and the various agreements that we entered into with these entities represent variable interests. We evaluated the arrangements to determine whether we are considered the primary beneficiary, and as a result of this evaluation, we consolidated four stations in the Louisville, KY; Portland, OR; and Tucson, AZ, television markets for the quarter ending June 29, 2014.
	The carrying amounts and classification of the assets and liabilities of the consolidated VIEs mentioned above and included in our consolidated balance sheets were as follows:
	In thousands	Jun. 29, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013
	Current assets	$	19,144	$	4,677
	Plant, property and equipment, net	7,375		8,061
	Intangible and other assets	30,955		32,008
	Total assets	$	57,474	$	44,746
	Current liabilities	$	9,590	$	7,827
	Noncurrent liabilities	32,204		34,173
	Total liabilities	$	41,794	$	42,000
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy	'
	Recent accounting standards: In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2014-09 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) which supersedes the guidance in Revenue Recognition (Topic 605). The core principle of ASU 2014-09 is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. New disclosures about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers are also required.
	We are required to adopt ASU 2014-09 in the first quarter of 2017 and early application is not permitted. However, we will need to apply the standard to 2015 and 2016. We can choose to apply the standard using either the full retrospective approach or a modified retrospective approach where we will recognize a cumulative catch up adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings. We are currently assessing the impact of adopting this pronouncement and the transition method we will use.
	In July 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-11 Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, A Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists. ASU 2013-11 provides guidance on financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit (UTB) when a net operating loss (NOL) carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists. Under ASU 2013-11, an entity must present a UTB, or a portion of a UTB, in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset (DTA) for an NOL carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward except when:
	•	An NOL carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward is unavailable as of the reporting date under the tax law of the jurisdiction.
	•	The entity does not intend to use the DTA for this purpose (provided that the tax law permits a choice).
	If either of these conditions exists, an entity should present a UTB in the financial statements as a liability and should not net the UTB with a DTA. ASU 2013-11 is effective for public entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2013, and interim periods within those years. We were required to adopt ASU 2013-11 in the first quarter of 2014, and the impact on our consolidated results of operations, financial position and cash flows was insignificant.

Basis_of_presentation_and_summ2

Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block]	'
	The carrying amounts and classification of the assets and liabilities of the consolidated VIEs mentioned above and included in our consolidated balance sheets were as follows:
	In thousands	Jun. 29, 2014		Dec. 29, 2013
	Current assets	$	19,144	$	4,677
	Plant, property and equipment, net	7,375		8,061
	Intangible and other assets	30,955		32,008
	Total assets	$	57,474	$	44,746
	Current liabilities	$	9,590	$	7,827
	Noncurrent liabilities	32,204		34,173
	Total liabilities	$	41,794	$	42,000

Goodwill_and_other_intangible_1

Goodwill and other intangible assets (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]	'
	The following table displays goodwill, indefinite-lived intangible assets, and amortizable intangible assets at June 29, 2014 and December 29, 2013:
	In thousands	Jun. 29, 2014						Dec. 29, 2013
		Gross			Accumulated Amortization			Gross			Accumulated Amortization
	Goodwill	$	3,804,551		$	—		$	3,790,472		$	—
	Indefinite-lived intangibles:
	Television station FCC licenses	1,091,204			—			1,091,204			—
	Mastheads and trade names	82,903			—			82,570			—
	Amortizable intangible assets:
	Customer relationships	302,817			194,852			290,845			177,515
	Other	223,650			39,004			213,790			23,663
Changes in the Company's net goodwill	'
	The following table summarizes the changes in our net goodwill balance through June 29, 2014:
	In thousands	Broadcasting			Publishing			Digital			Total
	Balance at Dec. 29, 2013:
	Goodwill	$	2,543,333		$	7,807,416		$	755,528		$	11,106,277
	Accumulated impairment losses	—			(7,187,535		)	(128,270		)	(7,315,805		)
	Net balance at Dec. 29, 2013	2,543,333			619,881			627,258			3,790,472
	Activity during the period:
	Acquisitions and adjustments	(16,430		)	4,578			33,233			21,381
	Impairment	—			(15,310		)	—			(15,310		)
	Foreign currency exchange rate changes	—			6,666			1,342			8,008
	Total	(16,430		)	(4,066		)	34,575			14,079
	Balance at Jun. 29, 2014:
	Goodwill	2,526,903			7,897,708			790,103			11,214,714
	Accumulated impairment losses	—			(7,281,893		)	(128,270		)	(7,410,163		)
	Net balance at Jun. 29, 2014	$	2,526,903		$	615,815		$	661,833		$	3,804,551
	On December 23, 2013, we completed our acquisition of Belo. The initial purchase price allocation is preliminary based upon all information available to us at the present time and is subject to change, and such changes could be material. We continue to review underlying assumptions and valuation techniques utilized to calculate the fair value of primarily the indefinite-lived and amortizable intangible assets, property, plant and equipment, investments and deferred income taxes. Certain immaterial adjustments have been made since the initial allocation in the fourth quarter of 2013.

Longterm_debt_Tables

Long-term debt (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Summary Long-term debt	'
	Our long-term debt is summarized below:
	In thousands	Jun. 29, 2014			Dec. 29, 2013
	Unsecured floating rate term loan due quarterly through August 2018	$	139,000		$	154,800
	VIE unsecured floating rate term loans due quarterly through December 2018	37,145			39,270
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 8.75% due November 2014	250,000			250,000
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 10% due June 2015	66,568			66,568
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 6.375% due September 2015	250,000			250,000
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 10% due April 2016	193,429			193,429
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 9.375% due November 2017	—			250,000
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 7.125% due September 2018	250,000			250,000
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 5.125% due October 2019	600,000			600,000
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 5.125% due July 2020	600,000			600,000
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 6.375% due October 2023	650,000			650,000
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 7.75% due June 2027	200,000			200,000
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 7.25% due September 2027	240,000			240,000
	Total principal long-term debt	3,476,142			3,744,067
	Other (fair market value adjustments and discounts)	(23,515		)	(31,167		)
	Total long-term debt	3,452,627			3,712,900
	Less current portion of long-term debt maturities of VIE loans	5,890			5,890
	Long-term debt, net of current portion	$	3,446,737		$	3,707,010

Retirement_plans_Tables

Retirement plans (Tables) (Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member])	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Benefit costs	'
	Our retirement plan costs include costs for qualified and nonqualified plans and are presented in the following table:
	In thousands	Thirteen Weeks Ended						Twenty-six Weeks Ended
		Jun. 29, 2014			Jun. 30, 2013			Jun. 29, 2014			Jun. 30, 2013
	Service cost-benefits earned during the period	$	877		$	1,756		$	2,708		$	3,881
	Interest cost on benefit obligation	42,372			35,071			84,738			70,254
	Expected return on plan assets	(59,174		)	(49,299		)	(117,748		)	(98,842		)
	Amortization of prior service cost	1,901			1,898			3,783			3,776
	Amortization of actuarial loss	11,674			16,190			22,901			31,550
	Expense (credit) for company-sponsored retirement plans	$	(2,350	)	$	5,616		$	(3,618	)	$	10,619

Postretirement_benefits_other_1

Postretirement benefits other than pension (Tables) (Other Postretirement Benefit Plan, Defined Benefit [Member])	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Other Postretirement Benefit Plan, Defined Benefit [Member]	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Postretirement benefit costs for health care and life insurance	'
	Post-retirement benefit costs for health care and life insurance are presented in the following table:
	In thousands	Thirteen Weeks Ended						Twenty-six Weeks Ended
		Jun. 29, 2014			Jun. 30, 2013			Jun. 29, 2014			Jun. 30, 2013
	Service cost-benefits earned during the period	$	68		$	89		$	186		$	264
	Interest cost on net benefit obligation	1,030			1,303			2,515			2,828
	Amortization of prior service credit	(3,116		)	(2,282		)	(5,483		)	(4,582		)
	Amortization of actuarial loss	124			85			332			585
	Net periodic post-retirement benefit credit	$	(1,894	)	$	(805	)	$	(2,450	)	$	(905	)

Income_taxes_Tables

Income taxes (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of summary for the activity related to unrecognized tax benefits, excluding the federal tax benefit of state tax deductions	'
	The following table summarizes the activity related to unrecognized tax benefits, excluding the federal tax benefit of state tax deductions:
	In thousands	Unrecognized Tax Benefits
	Balance at Dec. 29, 2013	$	57,324
	Changes in unrecognized tax benefits:
	Additions based on tax positions related to the current year	3,744
	Additions for tax positions of prior years	75
	Reductions for tax positions of prior years	(4,315		)
	Reductions due to lapse of statutes of limitations	(574		)
	Balance at Jun. 29, 2014	$	56,254

Supplemental_equity_informatio1

Supplemental equity information (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Equity [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Equity	'
	The following table summarizes equity account activity for the twenty-six week periods ended June 29, 2014 and June 30, 2013:
	In thousands	Gannett Co., Inc. Shareholders’ Equity			Noncontrolling Interests			Total Equity
	Balance at Dec. 29, 2013	$	2,693,098		$	201,695		$	2,894,793
	Comprehensive income:
	Net income	267,626			27,875			295,501
	Redeemable noncontrolling interests (income not available to shareholders)	—			(1,850		)	(1,850		)
	Other comprehensive income	35,513			1,061			36,574
	Total comprehensive income	303,139			27,086			330,225
	Dividends declared	(90,495		)	—			(90,495		)
	Stock-based compensation	17,208			—			17,208
	Treasury shares acquired	(75,815		)	—			(75,815		)
	Other activity	10,976			(2,311		)	8,665
	Balance at Jun. 29, 2014	$	2,858,111		$	226,470		$	3,084,581
	Balance at Dec. 30, 2012	$	2,350,614		$	189,298		$	2,539,912
	Comprehensive income:
	Net income	218,185			25,019			243,204
	Redeemable noncontrolling interests (income not available to shareholders)	—			(246		)	(246		)
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	1,370			(1,863		)	(493		)
	Total comprehensive income	219,555			22,910			242,465
	Dividends declared	(91,485		)	—			(91,485		)
	Stock-based compensation	15,877			—			15,877
	Treasury shares acquired	(41,385		)	—			(41,385		)
	Other activity	11,728			(744		)	10,984
	Balance at Jun. 30, 2013	$	2,464,904		$	211,464		$	2,676,368
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 and noncontrolling interests):
	In thousands	Retirement Plans			Foreign Currency Translation			Total
	Thirteen Weeks:
	Balance at Mar. 30, 2014	$	(899,026	)	$	431,830		$	(467,196	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(11,042		)	12,808			1,766
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	6,888			—			6,888
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	(4,154		)	12,808			8,654
	Balance at Jun. 29, 2014	$	(903,180	)	$	444,638		$	(458,542	)
	Balance at Mar. 31, 2013	$	(1,094,870	)	$	385,536		$	(709,334	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(120		)	(287		)	(407		)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	9,970			—			9,970
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	9,850			(287		)	9,563
	Balance at Jun. 30, 2013	$	(1,085,020	)	$	385,249		$	(699,771	)
	Twenty-six Weeks:
	Balance at Dec. 29, 2013	$	(921,232	)	$	427,177		$	(494,055	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	4,062			17,461			21,523
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	13,990			—			13,990
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	18,052			17,461			35,513
	Balance at Jun. 29, 2014	$	(903,180	)	$	444,638		$	(458,542	)
	Balance at Dec. 30, 2012	$	(1,119,263	)	$	418,122		$	(701,141	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	14,577			(32,873		)	(18,296		)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	19,666			—			19,666
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	34,243			(32,873		)	1,370
	Balance at Jun. 30, 2013	$	(1,085,020	)	$	385,249		$	(699,771	)
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	'
	Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive loss related to these post-retirement plans include the following:
	In thousands	Thirteen Weeks Ended						Twenty-six Weeks Ended
		Jun. 29, 2014			Jun. 30, 2013			Jun. 29, 2014			Jun. 30, 2013
	Amortization of prior service credit	$	(1,215	)	$	(384	)	$	(1,700	)	$	(806	)
	Amortization of actuarial loss	11,798			16,275			23,233			32,135
	Total reclassifications, before tax	10,583			15,891			21,533			31,329
	Income tax effect	(3,695		)	(5,921		)	(7,543		)	(11,663		)
	Total reclassifications, net of tax	$	6,888		$	9,970		$	13,990		$	19,666

Fair_value_measurement_Tables

Fair value measurement (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Compensation Related Costs [Abstract]	'
Financial Instruments Measured at Fair Value	'
	The following table summarizes our assets and liabilities measured at fair value in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 29, 2014 and December 29, 2013:
	In thousands	Fair Value Measurements as of Jun. 29, 2014
		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Employee compensation related investments	$	30,950	$	—	$	—	$	30,950
	Sundry investments	36,024		—		—		36,024
	Total assets	$	66,974	$	—	$	—	$	66,974
	Contingent consideration payable	$	—	$	—	$	15,882	$	15,882
	Total liabilities	$	—	$	—	$	15,882	$	15,882
	In thousands	Fair Value Measurements as of Dec. 29, 2013
		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Employee compensation related investments	$	28,117	$	—	$	—	$	28,117
	Sundry investments	34,227		—		—		34,227
	Total assets	$	62,344	$	—	$	—	$	62,344
	Contingent consideration payable	$	—	$	—	$	32,267	$	32,267
	Total liabilities	$	—	$	—	$	32,267	$	32,267

Business_segment_information_T

Business segment information (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Business Segment Information	'
	In thousands	Thirteen Weeks Ended						Twenty-six Weeks Ended
		Jun. 29, 2014			Jun. 30, 2013			Jun. 29, 2014			Jun. 30, 2013
	Net Operating Revenues:
	Broadcasting	$	398,258		$	211,962		$	780,526		$	403,542
	Publishing	867,365			904,231			1,709,428			1,775,464
	Digital	194,381			186,506			374,116			361,428
	Total	$	1,460,004		$	1,302,699		$	2,864,070		$	2,540,434
	Operating Income (net of depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges):
	Broadcasting	$	171,322		$	98,092		$	325,871		$	181,768
	Publishing	53,239			85,192			96,227			145,329
	Digital	35,695			35,277			59,519			58,881
	Corporate	(17,754		)	(15,679		)	(35,121		)	(32,039		)
	Total	$	242,502		$	202,882		$	446,496		$	353,939
	Depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges:
	Broadcasting	$	20,621		$	6,974		$	47,815		$	13,909
	Publishing	53,123			31,415			89,714			63,651
	Digital	9,603			9,383			17,891			18,490
	Corporate	4,749			4,561			10,003			9,122
	Total	$	88,096		$	52,333		$	165,423		$	105,172

Earnings_per_share_Tables

Earnings per share (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted	'
	Our earnings per share (basic and diluted) are presented below:
	In thousands, except per share data	Thirteen Weeks Ended				Twenty-six Weeks Ended
		Jun. 29, 2014		Jun. 30, 2013		Jun. 29, 2014		Jun. 30, 2013
	Net income attributable to Gannett Co., Inc.	$	208,467	$	113,620	$	267,626	$	218,185
	Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - basic	226,132		228,837		226,681		229,116
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Restricted stock	2,814		2,971		2,763		2,897
	Performance share units	2,212		1,734		1,725		1,797
	Stock options	948		1,094		1,018		1,056
	Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - diluted	232,106		234,636		232,187		234,866
	Net income per share - basic	$	0.92	$	0.5	$	1.18	$	0.95
	Net income per share - diluted	$	0.9	$	0.48	$	1.15	$	0.93

Basis_of_presentation_and_summ3

Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies (Details) (USD $)	Jun. 29, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'
Assets, Current	$1,462,627	$1,923,485
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net	1,599,057	1,669,632
Intangible Assets And Other Assets Noncurrent	6,085,881	5,647,589
Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets	57,474	44,746
Liabilities, Current	1,005,054	1,007,192
Liabilities, Noncurrent	5,040,026	5,324,103
VIE Consolidated for Four Stations in Louisville, KY; Portland OR; and Tucson, AZ [Member]	'	'
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'
Assets, Current	19,144	4,677
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net	7,375	8,061
Intangible Assets And Other Assets Noncurrent	30,955	32,008
Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets	57,474	44,746
Liabilities, Current	9,590	7,827
Liabilities, Noncurrent	32,204	34,173
Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities	$41,794	$42,000

Acquisitions_and_dispositions_

Acquisitions and dispositions (Details Textual) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 29, 2014	Jul. 08, 2014
		Investment Classified Ventures [Member]	London Broadcasting Company [Member]
			Subsequent Event [Member]
			station
Investment [Line Items]	'	'	'
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	'	26.90%	'
Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses and Interests in Affiliates	'	$585	'
Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions	'	154.6	'
Proceeds From Sale Of Assets	$407.50	'	'
Number Of Television Stations	'	'	6

Facility_consolidation_and_ass1

Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges (Details Textual) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Jun. 29, 2014
	Broadcast and publishing member [Member]	Broadcast and publishing member [Member]	Publishing [Member]	Publishing [Member]	Publishing [Member]	Broadcasting [Member]
			Property Plant And Equipment [Member]	Property Plant And Equipment [Member]	Publishing Assets Donated [Member]	Broadcasting Assets Donated [Member]
Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges (Textual) [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Asset impairment and other charges, pre-tax amount	$28.80	$43.60	$4.50	$9.30	$0.90	$1

Goodwill_and_other_intangible_2

Goodwill and other intangible assets (Details) (USD $)	Jun. 29, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill	$3,804,551	$3,790,472
Customer Relationships [Member]	'	'
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	302,817	290,845
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	194,852	177,515
Other [Member]	'	'
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	223,650	213,790
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	39,004	23,663
Television station FCC licenses [Member]	'	'
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)	1,091,204	1,091,204
Intangible Assets Accumulated Amortization	0	0
Mastheads and trade names [Member]	'	'
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)	82,903	82,570
Intangible Assets Accumulated Amortization	0	0
Goodwill [Member]	'	'
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill	3,804,551	3,790,472
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Intangible Assets Accumulated Amortization	$0	$0

Goodwill_and_other_intangible_3

Goodwill and other intangible assets (Details 1) (USD $)	6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 29, 2014
Changes in the Company's net goodwill	'
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	$11,106,277
Accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	-7,315,805
Ending balance	3,790,472
Acquisitions and adjustments	21,381
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	-15,310
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	8,008
Total	14,079
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	11,214,714
Accumulated impairment losses ending balance	-7,410,163
Ending balance	3,804,551
Broadcasting [Member]	'
Changes in the Company's net goodwill	'
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	2,543,333
Accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	0
Ending balance	2,543,333
Acquisitions and adjustments	-16,430
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	0
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	0
Total	-16,430
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	2,526,903
Accumulated impairment losses ending balance	0
Ending balance	2,526,903
Publishing [Member]	'
Changes in the Company's net goodwill	'
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	7,807,416
Accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	-7,187,535
Ending balance	619,881
Acquisitions and adjustments	4,578
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	-15,310
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	6,666
Total	-4,066
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	7,897,708
Accumulated impairment losses ending balance	-7,281,893
Ending balance	615,815
Digital [Member]	'
Changes in the Company's net goodwill	'
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	755,528
Accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	-128,270
Ending balance	627,258
Acquisitions and adjustments	33,233
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	0
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	1,342
Total	34,575
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	790,103
Accumulated impairment losses ending balance	-128,270
Ending balance	$661,833

Longterm_debt_Details

Long-term debt (Details) (USD $)	Jun. 29, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term Debt, Gross	$3,476,142	$3,744,067
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net	-23,515	-31,167
Long-term Debt	3,452,627	3,712,900
Summary Long-term debt	'	'
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months	5,890	5,890
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities	3,446,737	3,707,010
Unsecured Floating Rate Term Loan Due December 2013 Through August 2018 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	139,000	154,800
Unsecured Floating Rate Term Loan Due March 2014 Through December 2018 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	37,145	39,270
Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 8.75% due November 2014 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	250,000	250,000
Summary Long-term debt	'	'
Long-term debt, interest rate, stated percentage	8.75%	'
Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 10% due June 2015 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	66,568	66,568
Summary Long-term debt	'	'
Long-term debt, interest rate, stated percentage	10.00%	'
Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 6.375% due September 2015 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	250,000	250,000
Summary Long-term debt	'	'
Long-term debt, interest rate, stated percentage	6.38%	'
Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 10% due April 2016 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	193,429	193,429
Summary Long-term debt	'	'
Long-term debt, interest rate, stated percentage	10.00%	'
Unsecured Fixed Rate Notes 9.375 Percent Due November 2017 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	0	250,000
Summary Long-term debt	'	'
Long-term debt, interest rate, stated percentage	9.38%	'
Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 7.125% due September 2018 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	250,000	250,000
Summary Long-term debt	'	'
Long-term debt, interest rate, stated percentage	7.13%	'
Unsecured Fixed Rate Notes 5.125 Percent Due October 2019 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	600,000	600,000
Summary Long-term debt	'	'
Long-term debt, interest rate, stated percentage	5.13%	'
Unsecured Fixed Rate Notes 5.125 Percent Due July 2020 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	600,000	600,000
Summary Long-term debt	'	'
Long-term debt, interest rate, stated percentage	5.13%	'
Unsecured Fixed Rate Notes 6.375 Percent Due October 2023 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	650,000	650,000
Summary Long-term debt	'	'
Long-term debt, interest rate, stated percentage	6.38%	'
Unsecured Fixed Rate Notes 7.75 Percent Due June 2027 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	200,000	200,000
Summary Long-term debt	'	'
Long-term debt, interest rate, stated percentage	7.75%	'
Unsecured Fixed Rate Notes 7.25 Percent Due September 2027 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$240,000	$240,000
Summary Long-term debt	'	'
Long-term debt, interest rate, stated percentage	7.25%	'

Longterm_debt_LongTerm_Debt_Ad

Long-term debt Long-Term Debt - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Reduction in Long Term Debt Repayments Net of Discount Amortization	$260,300,000
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	1,270,000,000
Unsecured Fixed Rate Notes 9.375 Percent Due November 2017 [Member]	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Long-term debt, interest rate, stated percentage	9.38%
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	15-Nov-17
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Redeemed	104.69%
Interest expense saved from early redemption	$12,000,000

Retirement_plans_Details

Retirement plans (Details) (Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]	'	'	'	'
Company's pension costs	'	'	'	'
Service cost-benefits earned during the period	$877	$1,756	$2,708	$3,881
Interest cost on benefit obligation	42,372	35,071	84,738	70,254
Expected return on plan assets	-59,174	-49,299	-117,748	-98,842
Amortization of prior service cost	1,901	1,898	3,783	3,776
Amortization of actuarial loss	11,674	16,190	22,901	31,550
Expense (credit) for company-sponsored retirement plans	($2,350)	$5,616	($3,618)	$10,619

Retirement_plans_Details_Textu

Retirement plans (Details Textual) (Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member], USD $)	6 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 29, 2014
Gannett Retirement Plan [Member]	'
Retirement Plans (Textual) [Abstract]	'
Contribution to the defined benefit plans	$41
Future estimated contributions to defined benefit plans for the current fiscal year	28
Dealey Retirement Plan [Member]	'
Retirement Plans (Textual) [Abstract]	'
Contribution to the defined benefit plans	6.6
Future estimated contributions to defined benefit plans for the current fiscal year	8.9
Newsquest Retirement Plan [Member]	'
Retirement Plans (Textual) [Abstract]	'
Contribution to the defined benefit plans	6.9
Future estimated contributions to defined benefit plans for the current fiscal year	$7.40

Postretirement_benefits_other_2

Postretirement benefits other than pension (Details) (Other Postretirement Benefit Plan, Defined Benefit [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Other Postretirement Benefit Plan, Defined Benefit [Member]	'	'	'	'
Postretirement benefit costs for health care and life insurance	'	'	'	'
Service cost-benefits earned during the period	$68	$89	$186	$264
Interest cost on net benefit obligation	1,030	1,303	2,515	2,828
Amortization of prior service credit	-3,116	-2,282	-5,483	-4,582
Amortization of actuarial loss	124	85	332	585
Net periodic post-retirement benefit credit	($1,894)	($805)	($2,450)	($905)

Postretirement_benefits_other_3

Postretirement benefits other than pension (Details Textual) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Remeasurement of post-retirement benefits liability	$0	$0	($33,907)	$0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plan, Defined Benefit [Member]	'	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Remeasurement of post-retirement benefits liability	'	'	($33,900)	'

Income_taxes_Details_Textual

Income taxes (Details Textual) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 29, 2013
Income Taxes (Textual) [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'
Unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact effective tax rate	$45	'	$45	'	$46.50
Net benefit from the reversal of interest and penalty expense	1.2	4.6	2.5	17.4	'
Accrued interest and penalties payable related to unrecognized tax benefits	9	'	9	'	11.5
Estimated decrease in gross unrecognized tax positions within the next 12 months, maximum	$8.20	'	$8.20	'	'
Federal [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Tax years subject to examination	'	'	'2010 through 2012 tax years remain subject to IRS examination	'	'
State [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Tax years subject to examination	'	'	'The 2009 through 2012 tax years generally remain subject to examination by state authorities	'	'
UNITED KINGDOM	'	'	'	'	'
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Tax years subject to examination	'	'	'the 2012 tax year is subject to examination in the U.K	'	'

Income_taxes_Details

Income taxes (Details) (USD $)	6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 29, 2014
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]	'
Beginning balance	$57,324
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year	3,744
Additions for tax positions of prior years	75
Reductions for tax positions of prior years	-4,315
Reductions due to lapse of statutes of limitations	-574
Ending balance	$56,254

Supplemental_equity_informatio2

Supplemental equity information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Equity Note [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Beginning Balance	'	'	$2,894,793	$2,539,912
Comprehensive income:	'	'	'	'
Net income	225,912	126,741	295,501	243,204
Redeemable noncontrolling interests (income not available to shareholders)	-1,395	28	-1,850	-246
Other comprehensive income	9,473	9,486	36,574	-493
Total comprehensive income	233,990	136,255	330,225	242,465
Dividends declared	'	'	-90,495	-91,485
Stock-based compensation	'	'	17,208	15,877
Treasury shares acquired	'	'	-75,815	-41,385
Other activity	'	'	8,665	10,984
Ending Balance	3,084,581	2,676,368	3,084,581	2,676,368
Gannett Co., Inc. Shareholders' Equity [Member]	'	'	'	'
Equity Note [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Beginning Balance	'	'	2,693,098	2,350,614
Comprehensive income:	'	'	'	'
Net income	'	'	267,626	218,185
Redeemable noncontrolling interests (income not available to shareholders)	'	'	0	0
Other comprehensive income	'	'	35,513	1,370
Total comprehensive income	'	'	303,139	219,555
Dividends declared	'	'	-90,495	-91,485
Stock-based compensation	'	'	17,208	15,877
Treasury shares acquired	'	'	-75,815	-41,385
Other activity	'	'	10,976	11,728
Ending Balance	2,858,111	2,464,904	2,858,111	2,464,904
Noncontrolling Interests [Member]	'	'	'	'
Equity Note [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Beginning Balance	'	'	201,695	189,298
Comprehensive income:	'	'	'	'
Net income	'	'	27,875	25,019
Redeemable noncontrolling interests (income not available to shareholders)	'	'	-1,850	-246
Other comprehensive income	'	'	1,061	-1,863
Total comprehensive income	'	'	27,086	22,910
Dividends declared	'	'	0	0
Stock-based compensation	'	'	0	0
Treasury shares acquired	'	'	0	0
Other activity	'	'	-2,311	-744
Ending Balance	$226,470	$211,464	$226,470	$211,464

Supplemental_equity_informatio3

Supplemental equity information (Details Textual) (Economic Modeling [Member])	Aug. 31, 2012
Economic Modeling [Member]	'
Supplemental equity information (Textual) [Abstract]	'
Percentage of acquired company	74.00%
Shareholders for remaining of ownership percentage	26.00%

Supplemental_equity_informatio4

Supplemental equity information (Details 1) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Beginning Balance	($467,196)	($709,334)	($494,055)	($701,141)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	1,766	-407	21,523	-18,296
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	6,888	9,970	13,990	19,666
Other comprehensive income (loss)	8,654	9,563	35,513	1,370
Ending Balance	-458,542	-699,771	-458,542	-699,771
Retirement Plans [Member]	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Beginning Balance	-899,026	-1,094,870	-921,232	-1,119,263
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	-11,042	-120	4,062	14,577
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	6,888	9,970	13,990	19,666
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-4,154	9,850	18,052	34,243
Ending Balance	-903,180	-1,085,020	-903,180	-1,085,020
Foreign Currency Translation [Member]	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Beginning Balance	431,830	385,536	427,177	418,122
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	12,808	-287	17,461	-32,873
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	0	0	0	0
Other comprehensive income (loss)	12,808	-287	17,461	-32,873
Ending Balance	$444,638	$385,249	$444,638	$385,249

Supplemental_equity_informatio5

Supplemental equity information (Details 2) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Amortization of actuarial loss	$11,798	$16,275	$23,233	$32,135
Income before income taxes	331,912	166,341	454,001	288,204
Income tax effect	-106,000	-39,600	-158,500	-45,000
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	6,888	9,970	13,990	19,666
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	6,888	9,970	13,990	19,666
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Amortization of prior service credit	-1,215	-384	-1,700	-806
Amortization of actuarial loss	11,798	16,275	23,233	32,135
Income before income taxes	10,583	15,891	21,533	31,329
Income tax effect	($3,695)	($5,921)	($7,543)	($11,663)

Fair_value_measurement_Details

Fair value measurement (Details) (USD $)	Jun. 29, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Jun. 29, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Jun. 29, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Jun. 29, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 29, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified			Level 1 [Member]	Level 1 [Member]	Level 2 [Member]	Level 2 [Member]	Level 3 [Member]	Level 3 [Member]	Minimum [Member]	Maximum [Member]
									Level 3 [Member]	Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	10.00%	30.00%
assets and liabilities measured at fair value	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Employee compensation related investments	$30,950	$28,117	$30,950	$28,117	$0	$0	$0	$0	'	'
Sundry investments	36,024	34,227	36,024	34,227	0	0	0	0	'	'
Total assets	66,974	62,344	66,974	62,344	0	0	0	0	'	'
Contingent consideration payable	15,882	32,267	0	0	0	0	15,882	32,267	'	'
Total liabilities	$15,882	$32,267	$0	$0	$0	$0	$15,882	$32,267	'	'

Fair_value_measurement_Details1

Fair value measurement (Details Textual) (USD $)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 29, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	$15,310,000	'
Fair Value Measurement (Textual) [Abstract]	'	'
Contingent Consideration change in value	16,400,000	'
Fair value of total long-term debt	3,680,000,000	3,930,000,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill, Fair Value Disclosure	6,200,000	'
Publishing [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	$15,310,000	'

Business_segment_information_D

Business segment information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net Operating Revenues	$1,460,004	$1,302,699	$2,864,070	$2,540,434
Operating Income (net of depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges)	242,502	202,882	446,496	353,939
Depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges	88,096	52,333	165,423	105,172
Broadcasting [Member]	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Number of television stations	40	'	40	'
Net Operating Revenues	398,258	211,962	780,526	403,542
Operating Income (net of depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges)	171,322	98,092	325,871	181,768
Depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges	20,621	6,974	47,815	13,909
Publishing [Member]	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net Operating Revenues	867,365	904,231	1,709,428	1,775,464
Operating Income (net of depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges)	53,239	85,192	96,227	145,329
Depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges	53,123	31,415	89,714	63,651
Digital [Member]	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net Operating Revenues	194,381	186,506	374,116	361,428
Operating Income (net of depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges)	35,695	35,277	59,519	58,881
Depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges	9,603	9,383	17,891	18,490
Corporate [Member]	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Operating Income (net of depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges)	-17,754	-15,679	-35,121	-32,039
Depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges	$4,749	$4,561	$10,003	$9,122

Earnings_per_share_Details

Earnings per share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net income attributable to Gannett Co., Inc.	$208,467	$113,620	$267,626	$218,185
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - basic	226,132	228,837	226,681	229,116
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - diluted	232,106	234,636	232,187	234,866
Net income per share – basic (In dollars per share)	$0.92	$0.50	$1.18	$0.95
Net income per share – diluted (In dollars per share)	$0.90	$0.48	$1.15	$0.93
Restricted Stock [Member]	'	'	'	'
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements	2,814	2,971	2,763	2,897
Performance Shares [Member]	'	'	'	'
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements	2,212	1,734	1,725	1,797
Employee Stock Option [Member]	'	'	'	'
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements	948	1,094	1,018	1,056

Earnings_per_share_Details_Tex

Earnings per share (Details Textual)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 29, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Earnings Per Share (Textual) [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Diluted earnings per share amounts excluded stock options outstanding	2.2	6.2	2.2	6.2

Subsequent_Events_Details

Subsequent Events (Details) (Subsequent Event [Member], USD $)	Jul. 08, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Subsequent Event [Line Items]	'
Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Acquisition Costs or Sale Proceeds	$215
London Broadcasting Company [Member]	'
Subsequent Event [Line Items]	'
Number Of Television Stations	6