TEGNA (TGNA) 10-Q 6 May 15 2015 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	GANNETT CO INC /DE/
Entity Central Index Key	39899
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	29-Mar-15
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-15
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock Shares Outstanding	226,856,486
Trading Symbol	GCI

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Mar. 29, 2015		Dec. 28, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$135,681		$118,484
Trade receivables, less allowance for doubtful accounts (2015 - $18,476; 2014 - $16,498)	831,587		912,004
Other receivables	67,372		72,763
Inventories	41,732		38,861
Deferred income taxes	162,449		158,648
Assets held for sale	23,477		69,998
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	111,170		109,707
Total current assets	1,373,468		1,480,465
Property, plant and equipment
Cost	3,832,280		3,901,869
Less accumulated depreciation	-2,276,092		-2,292,654
Net property, plant and equipment	1,556,188		1,609,215
Intangible and other assets
Goodwill	4,475,941		4,499,927
Indefinite-lived and amortizable intangible assets, less accumulated amortization	3,204,871		3,239,593
Deferred income taxes	62,085		63,647
Investments and other assets	311,907		312,608
Total intangible and other assets	8,054,804		8,115,775
Total assets (a)	10,984,460	[1]	11,205,455	[1]
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Accounts payable and current portion of film contracts payable	230,553		281,784
Accrued expenses	509,017		564,628
Dividends payable	45,496		45,309
Income taxes	24,380		11,267
Deferred income	237,484		217,094
Current portion of long-term debt	7,854		7,854
Total current liabilities	1,054,784		1,127,936
Income taxes	58,612		56,578
Deferred income taxes	664,589		650,372
Long-term debt	4,351,548		4,488,028
Post-retirement medical and life insurance liabilities	94,596		97,648
Pension liabilities	907,996		941,715
Other noncurrent liabilities	303,851		333,435
Total noncurrent liabilities	6,381,192		6,567,776
Total liabilities (a)	7,435,976	[1]	7,695,712	[1]
Redeemable noncontrolling interest	12,817		20,470
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	527,195		546,406
Retained earnings	8,669,892		8,602,369
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-781,037		-778,769
Stockholders' Equity before Treasury Stock, Total	8,740,469		8,694,425
Less treasury stock, at cost (2015 - 97,562,146 shares; 2014 - 97,679,541 shares)	-5,445,983		-5,439,511
Total Gannett Co., Inc. shareholders’ equity	3,294,486		3,254,914
Noncontrolling interests	241,181		234,359
Total equity	3,535,667		3,489,273
Total liabilities, redeemable noncontrolling interest and equity	$10,984,460		$11,205,455
[1]	(a) Our consolidated assets as of Mar. 29, 2015 include total assets of $60.3 million related to variable interest entities (VIEs) and our consolidated assets as of Dec. 28, 2014, include $60.0 million of such assets. These assets can only be used to settle the obligations of the VIEs. Consolidated liabilities as of Mar. 29, 2015 include total liabilities of $3.2 million related to VIEs and our consolidated liabilities as of Dec. 28, 2014 include $4.3 million of such liabilities. The VIEs’ creditors have no recourse to us regarding these liabilities. See further description in Note 1 - Summary of significant accounting policies.

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance1

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Mar. 29, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable	$18,476	$16,498
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	97,562,146	97,679,541
Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets	60,353	60,037
Variable Interest Entity Consolidated Carrying Amount, Liabilities Subject to Recourse	$3,161	$4,253

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2015	Mar. 30, 2014
Income Statement [Abstract]
Operating Revenues	$1,472,765	$1,404,066
Operating Expenses:
Cost of sales and operating expenses, exclusive of depreciation	700,639	767,532
Selling, general and administrative expenses, exclusive of depreciation	447,244	355,213
Depreciation	49,483	44,764
Amortization of intangible assets	32,087	17,743
Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges	12,384	14,820
Total	1,241,837	1,200,072
Operating income	230,928	203,994
Non-operating (expense) income:
Equity income in unconsolidated investees, net	5,058	8,491
Interest expense	-70,759	-69,648
Other non-operating items	22,780	-20,748
Total	-42,921	-81,905
Income before income taxes	188,007	122,089
Provision for income taxes	60,523	52,500
Net income	127,484	69,589
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	-14,590	-10,430
Net income attributable to Gannett Co., Inc.	$112,894	$59,159
Net income per share – basic	$0.50	$0.26
Net income per share – diluted	$0.49	$0.25
Dividends declared per share	$0.20	$0.20

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme1

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2015	Mar. 30, 2014
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$127,484	$69,589
Redeemable noncontrolling interest (income not available to shareholders)	-1,233	-455
Other comprehensive income, before tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustments	-32,309	4,653
Pension and other postretirement benefit items:
Amortization of prior service credit, net	-618	-485
Amortization of actuarial loss	15,695	11,435
Remeasurement of post-retirement benefits liability	0	33,907
Other	18,539	-6,116
Pension and other post-retirement benefit items	33,616	38,741
Other	0	242
Other comprehensive income, before tax	1,307	43,636
Income tax effect related to components of other comprehensive (loss) income	-9,141	-16,535
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	-7,834	27,101
Comprehensive income	118,417	96,235
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax	-7,791	-10,217
Comprehensive income attributable to Gannett Co., Inc.	$110,626	$86,018

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme2

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2015	Mar. 30, 2014
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$127,484	$69,589
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flow from operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	81,570	62,507
Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges	12,384	14,820
Pension contributions, net of pension expense	-5,606	-20,890
Equity income in unconsolidated investees, net	-5,058	-8,491
Stock-based compensation – equity awards	9,114	8,901
Change in other assets and liabilities, net	-74,424	39,566
Net cash flow from operating activities	145,464	166,002
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchase of property, plant and equipment	-19,121	-21,851
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired	-8,624	-32,598
Payments for investments	-5,000	-1,000
Proceeds from investments	7,883	5,759
Proceeds from sale of certain assets	103,813	44,735
Net cash flow from (used for) investing activities	78,951	-4,955
Cash flows from financing activities:
Payments of borrowings under revolving credit agreements, net	-130,000	0
Payments of unsecured fixed rate notes	-10,025	-7,900
Proceeds from (Repayments of) Notes Payable	0	-250,000
Dividends paid	-45,257	-45,369
Cost of common shares repurchased	-37,520	-37,937
Proceeds from issuance of common stock upon settlement of stock awards	19,049	9,028
Distribution to noncontrolling interests	-1,233	-877
Deferred payments for acquisitions	-1,841	-4,330
Net cash used for financing activities	-206,827	-337,385
Effect of currency exchange rate change on cash	-391	112
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	17,197	-176,226
Balance of cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	118,484	469,203
Balance of cash and cash equivalents at end of period	135,681	292,977
Supplemental cash flow information:
Cash paid for taxes, net of refunds	17,675	7,801
Cash paid for interest	47,981	49,798
Non-cash investing and financing activities:
Assets held for sale proceeds	$0	$157,275

Basis_of_presentation_and_summ

Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
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 of a normal recurring nature 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 significantly impact the VIE.
	We have 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. Accordingly, we evaluated the arrangements to determine whether we are considered the primary beneficiary, and as a result of this evaluation, we have consolidated four stations in the Louisville, KY, Portland, OR, and Tucson, AZ, television markets since December 23, 2013.
	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	Mar. 29, 2015		Dec. 28, 2014
	Current assets	$	21,247	$	20,541
	Plant, property and equipment, net	9,832		10,084
	Intangible and other assets	29,192		29,412
	Total assets	$	60,271	$	60,037
	Current liabilities	$	10,586	$	11,635
	Noncurrent liabilities	23,829		26,028
	Total liabilities	$	34,415	$	37,663
	Recent accounting standards: In April 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) decided to propose a one-year deferral of the effective date for Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2014-09 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). Under this proposal, the standard would be effective for public entities for annual reporting periods beginning after 15 December 2017 and interim periods therein. The core principle contemplated by ASU 2014-09 is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount 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 were originally required to adopt ASU 2014-09 in the first quarter of 2017 and early application is not permitted. Subsequently, the FASB proposed a one-year deferral of the effective date for this standard. If the deferral is adopted, we would be required to adopt the standard in the first quarter of 2018 and retroactively apply it to our 2016 and 2017 financial results at the time of adoption. We can choose to apply the standard using either the full retrospective approach or a modified retrospective approach, which recognizes a cumulative catch up adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings. We are currently assessing the impact of adopting this pronouncement and the transition method we will use.
	Also in April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-03 Interest - Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30) Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs. Under the ASU, an entity presents their debt issuance cost on the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of their debt liability, similar to their debt discounts, rather than as an asset as has been done previously. Amortization of the cost is reported as interest expense. We are required to adopt ASU 2015-03 in the first quarter of 2016, with early adoption being permitted. We are also required to apply the new guidance on a retrospective basis, wherein the balance sheet of each period presented is adjusted to reflect the effects of applying the new guidance. At the end of the first quarter, we had $51.2 million of debt issuance costs recorded as assets, which amount to less than 1% of our total assets.

Acquisitions_and_dispositions

Acquisitions and dispositions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
Acquisitions Investments and Dispositions [Abstract]
Acquisitions Investments and Dispositions	Acquisitions and dispositions
	On August 5, 2014, we announced our plan to create two publicly traded companies: one exclusively focused on our Broadcasting and Digital businesses, and the other on our Publishing business and related digital operations. Upon separation, the Broadcasting and Digital company will be named TEGNA Inc., and will trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “TGNA.” The company formed to hold our Publishing business will be named Gannett Co., Inc. and it intends to apply to list its common stock on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “GCI.” The planned separation of the Publishing business will be implemented through a tax-free distribution of shares of a new company formed to hold our Publishing assets to our shareholders. We expect to complete the transaction mid-2015, subject to a number of conditions, including final approval of our Board of Directors, receipt of an opinion from tax counsel regarding the tax-free nature of the distribution, the effectiveness of a Form 10 registration statement, and other customary matters. We filed our initial Form 10 registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 12, 2015 and our first amendment to the Form 10 was filed on May 1, 2015. There can be no assurance regarding the ultimate timing of the proposed transaction or that it will be completed.
	On December 29, 2014, we sold Gannett Healthcare Group (GHG) to OnCourse Learning, an online education and training provider. GHG is a leading provider of continuing education, certification test preparation, online recruitment, digital media, publications and related services for nurses and other healthcare professionals in the United States.
	In March 2015, CareerBuilder increased its controlling interest in Economic Modeling Specialists Intl. (EMSI) by 11% from 74% to 85%. EMSI is an economic software firm that specializes in employment data and labor market analysis. EMSI collects and interprets large amounts of labor data, which is used in work force development and talent strategy.

Facility_consolidation_and_ass

Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
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. In 2015, we also recorded non-cash impairment charges to reduce the book value of goodwill. The goodwill impairment non-cash charge 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 one of our smaller Publishing Segment reporting units, we accelerated our testing of this unit in the first quarter of 2015. Our testing showed that the implied fair value of the goodwill was less than the recorded value. Therefore, we recognized a non-cash charge of $5.9 million to reduce the carrying value of goodwill to the implied fair value.
	We recorded pre-tax charges for facility consolidations and asset impairments of $12.4 million in the first quarter in 2015. For 2014, we recorded $14.8 million pre-tax charges for the first quarter.

Goodwill_and_other_intangible_

Goodwill and other intangible assets	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
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 March 29, 2015 and December 28, 2014:
	In thousands	Mar. 29, 2015					Dec. 28, 2014
		Gross		Accumulated Amortization			Gross			Accumulated Amortization
	Goodwill	$	4,475,941	$	—		$	4,499,927		$	—
	Indefinite-lived intangibles:
	Television station FCC licenses	1,191,950		—			1,191,950			—
	Mastheads and trade names	951,357		—			951,776			—
	Amortizable intangible assets:
	Customer relationships	1,076,158		233,070			1,078,738			212,438
	Other	279,053		60,577			282,856			53,289
	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 March 29, 2015:
	In thousands	Broadcasting		Digital			Publishing			Total
	Balance at Dec. 28, 2014:
	Goodwill	$	2,578,601	$	1,488,139		$	7,662,543		$	11,729,283
	Accumulated impairment losses	—		(151,970		)	(7,077,386		)	(7,229,356		)
	Net balance at Dec. 28, 2014	2,578,601		1,336,169			585,157			4,499,927
	Activity during the period:
	Acquisitions and adjustments	516		2,248			—			2,764
	Impairment	—		—			(5,940		)	(5,940		)
	Foreign currency exchange rate changes	—		(12,425		)	(8,385		)	(20,810		)
	Total	516		(10,177		)	(14,325		)	(23,986		)
	Balance at Mar. 29, 2015:
	Goodwill	2,579,117		1,477,962			7,554,744			11,611,823
	Accumulated impairment losses	—		(151,970		)	(6,983,912		)	(7,135,882		)
	Net balance at Mar. 29, 2015	$	2,579,117	$	1,325,992		$	570,832		$	4,475,941
	On July 8, 2014, we acquired six London Broadcasting Company television stations and on October 1, 2014 we completed the acquisition of the remaining 73% that we did not already own in Cars.com (formerly Classified Ventures, LLC). The initial purchase price allocations are preliminary based upon all information available to us at the present time and are subject to change. We continue to review underlying assumptions utilized to calculate the fair value of primarily the indefinite-lived and amortizable intangible assets, property, plant and equipment, investments and deferred income taxes.

Longterm_debt

Long-term debt	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-term debt	Long-term debt
	Our long-term debt is summarized below:
	In thousands	Mar. 29, 2015			Dec. 28, 2014
	Unsecured floating rate term loan due quarterly through August 2018	$	115,300		$	123,200
	VIE unsecured floating rate term loans due quarterly through December 2018	31,254			33,379
	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
	Borrowings under revolving credit agreement expiring August 2018	510,000			640,000
	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 4.875% due September 2021	350,000			350,000
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 6.375% due October 2023	650,000			650,000
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 5.50% due September 2024	325,000			325,000
	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	4,381,551			4,521,576
	Other (fair market value adjustments and discounts)	(22,149		)	(25,694		)
	Total long-term debt	4,359,402			4,495,882
	Less current portion of long-term debt maturities of VIE loans	7,854			7,854
	Long-term debt, net of current portion	$	4,351,548		$	4,488,028
	For the first three months of 2015, our long-term debt decreased by $136.5 million, primarily reflecting net debt payments of $140.0 million partially offset by debt discount amortization. On March 29, 2015, we had unused borrowing capacity of $759.7 million under our revolving credit agreement.

Retirement_plans

Retirement plans (Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member])	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
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
		Mar. 29, 2015			Mar. 30, 2014
	Service cost-benefits earned during the period	$	1,334		$	1,831
	Interest cost on benefit obligation	38,327			42,366
	Expected return on plan assets	(56,069		)	(58,574		)
	Amortization of prior service cost	1,882			1,882
	Amortization of actuarial loss	15,295			11,227
	Expense (credit) for company-sponsored retirement plans	$	769		$	(1,268	)
	For the thirteen weeks ended March 29, 2015, we contributed $2.9 million (£1.9 million) to the Newsquest Pension Scheme in the U.K. (Newsquest Plan). We contributed $12.0 million to the GRP in the second quarter of 2015 and expect to contribute £6.3 million to the Newsquest Plan throughout the remainder of 2015.

Postretirement_benefits_other_

Postretirement benefits other than pension (Other Postretirement Benefit Plan, Defined Benefit [Member])	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
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. The cost of providing retiree health care and life insurance benefits is actuarially determined. Our policy is to fund benefits as claims and premiums are paid. In March 2014, we adopted changes to the retiree medical plan that were effective July 1, 2014. Beginning on that date, we pay a stipend to certain Medicare-eligible Gannett retirees. 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
		Mar. 29, 2015			Mar. 30, 2014
	Service cost-benefits earned during the period	$	106		$	118
	Interest cost on net benefit obligation	993			1,485
	Amortization of prior service credit	(2,500		)	(2,367		)
	Amortization of actuarial loss	400			208
	Net periodic post-retirement benefit credit	$	(1,001	)	$	(556	)

Income_taxes

Income taxes	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
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 $48.4 million as of March 29, 2015 and $46.8 million as of December 28, 2014. The amount of accrued interest and penalties payable related to unrecognized tax benefits was $7.0 million as of March 29, 2015 and $6.9 million as of December 28, 2014.
	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 $4.5 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	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Supplemental equity information	Supplemental equity information
	The following table summarizes equity account activity for the thirteen week periods ended March 29, 2015 and March 30, 2014:
	In thousands	Gannett Co., Inc. Shareholders’ Equity			Noncontrolling Interests			Total Equity
	Balance at Dec. 28, 2014	$	3,254,914		$	234,359		$	3,489,273
	Comprehensive income:
	Net income	112,894			14,590			127,484
	Redeemable noncontrolling interest (income not available to shareholders)	—			(1,233		)	(1,233		)
	Other comprehensive loss	(2,268		)	(5,566		)	(7,834		)
	Total comprehensive income	110,626			7,791			118,417
	Dividends declared	(45,371		)	—			(45,371		)
	Stock-based compensation	9,114			—			9,114
	Treasury shares acquired	(37,520		)	—			(37,520		)
	Other activity	2,723			(969		)	1,754
	Balance at Mar. 29, 2015	$	3,294,486		$	241,181		$	3,535,667
	Balance at Dec. 29, 2013	$	2,693,098		$	201,695		$	2,894,793
	Comprehensive income:
	Net income	59,159			10,430			69,589
	Redeemable noncontrolling interest (income not available to shareholders)	—			(455		)	(455		)
	Other comprehensive income	26,859			242			27,101
	Total comprehensive income	86,018			10,217			96,235
	Dividends declared	(45,234		)	—			(45,234		)
	Stock-based compensation	8,901			—			8,901
	Treasury shares acquired	(37,937		)	—			(37,937		)
	Other activity	9,296			(1,210		)	8,086
	Balance at Mar. 30, 2014	$	2,714,142		$	210,702		$	2,924,844
	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. In March 2015, CareerBuilder purchased an additional 11% ownership interest in EMSI. Holders of the remaining 15% ownership interest in EMSI 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 interest.”
	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 Dec. 28, 2014	$	(1,169,882	)	$	391,113		$	(778,769	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	14,831			(26,744		)	(11,913		)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	9,645			—			9,645
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	24,476			(26,744		)	(2,268		)
	Balance at Mar. 29, 2015	$	(1,145,406	)	$	364,369		$	(781,037	)
	Balance at Dec. 29, 2013	$	(921,232	)	$	427,177		$	(494,055	)
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	15,104			4,653			19,757
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	7,102			—			7,102
	Other comprehensive income	22,206			4,653			26,859
	Balance at Mar. 30, 2014	$	(899,026	)	$	431,830		$	(467,196	)
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss 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
		Mar. 29, 2015			Mar. 30, 2014
	Amortization of prior service credit	$	(618	)	$	(485	)
	Amortization of actuarial loss	15,695			11,435
	Total reclassifications, before tax	15,077			10,950
	Income tax effect	(5,432		)	(3,848		)
	Total reclassifications, net of tax	$	9,645		$	7,102

Fair_value_measurement

Fair value measurement	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
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 March 29, 2015 and December 28, 2014:
	In thousands	Fair Value Measurements as of Mar. 29, 2015
		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Employee compensation related investments	$	34,901	$	—	$	—	$	34,901
	Sundry investments	37,065		—		—		37,065
	Total assets	$	71,966	$	—	$	—	$	71,966
	Contingent consideration payable	$	—	$	—	$	7,974	$	7,974
	Total liabilities	$	—	$	—	$	7,974	$	7,974
	In thousands	Fair Value Measurements as of Dec. 28, 2014
		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Employee compensation related investments	$	41,017	$	—	$	—	$	41,017
	Sundry investments	36,641		—		—		36,641
	Total assets	$	77,658	$	—	$	—	$	77,658
	Contingent consideration payable	$	—	$	—	$	9,912	$	9,912
	Total liabilities	$	—	$	—	$	9,912	$	9,912
	Under certain acquisition agreements, we have agreed to pay the sellers earn-outs based on the 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 15% and 27% 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 thirteen weeks ended March 29, 2015, the contingent consideration decreased by $1.9 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 $4.59 billion at March 29, 2015 and $4.65 billion at December 28, 2014.
	During the first quarter of 2015, a small Publishing Segment goodwill asset was impaired as the implied fair value of the goodwill was less than the recorded value. Implied fair value of the goodwill asset was zero and we recognized a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of $5.9 million to reduce the carrying value to the implied fair value.

Business_segment_information

Business segment information	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Business segment information	Business segment information
	Our reportable segments based on our management and internal reporting structures are Broadcasting, Digital and Publishing. The Broadcasting Segment at the end of the first quarter includes our 46 owned and serviced television stations. The Digital Segment includes Cars.com, CareerBuilder, Shoplocal and PointRoll. The Publishing Segment principally includes local domestic publishing operations, Newsquest operations in the U.K. and the USA TODAY group.
	In thousands	Thirteen Weeks Ended
		Mar. 29, 2015			Mar. 30, 2014
	Net Operating Revenues:
	Broadcasting	$	396,794		$	382,268
	Digital	332,699			179,735
	Publishing	768,188			842,063
	Intersegment eliminations (a)	(24,916		)	—
	Total	$	1,472,765		$	1,404,066
	Operating Income (net of depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation and asset impairment charges):
	Broadcasting	$	175,330		$	154,549
	Digital	56,153			23,824
	Publishing	18,305			42,988
	Corporate	(18,860		)	(17,367		)
	Total	$	230,928		$	203,994
	Depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation and asset impairment charges:
	Broadcasting	$	21,261		$	27,194
	Digital	32,827			8,288
	Publishing	36,125			36,591
	Corporate	3,741			5,254
	Total	$	93,954		$	77,327
	(a) Includes intersegment eliminations of $19 million for Digital and $5 million for Publishing.

Earnings_per_share

Earnings per share	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
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
		Mar. 29, 2015		Mar. 30, 2014
	Net income attributable to Gannett Co., Inc.	$	112,894	$	59,159
	Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - basic	227,089		227,230
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Restricted stock	2,267		2,711
	Performance share units	1,692		1,239
	Stock options	883		1,088
	Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - diluted	231,931		232,268
	Net income per share - basic	$	0.5	$	0.26
	Net income per share - diluted	$	0.49	$	0.25
	The diluted earnings per share amounts exclude the effects of approximately 0.3 million stock options outstanding for the first quarter of 2015 and 2.3 million stock options outstanding for the first quarter of 2014, as their inclusion would be anti-dilutive.

Commitments_Contingencies_and_

Commitments Contingencies and Other Matters	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
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 our business. Management believes any liability that exists as a result of these matters is immaterial.

Basis_of_presentation_and_summ1

Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies (Policies)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
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 of a normal recurring nature 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 significantly impact the VIE.
	We have 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. Accordingly, we evaluated the arrangements to determine whether we are considered the primary beneficiary, and as a result of this evaluation, we have consolidated four stations in the Louisville, KY, Portland, OR, and Tucson, AZ, television markets since December 23, 2013.
	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	Mar. 29, 2015		Dec. 28, 2014
	Current assets	$	21,247	$	20,541
	Plant, property and equipment, net	9,832		10,084
	Intangible and other assets	29,192		29,412
	Total assets	$	60,271	$	60,037
	Current liabilities	$	10,586	$	11,635
	Noncurrent liabilities	23,829		26,028
	Total liabilities	$	34,415	$	37,663
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy	Recent accounting standards: In April 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) decided to propose a one-year deferral of the effective date for Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2014-09 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). Under this proposal, the standard would be effective for public entities for annual reporting periods beginning after 15 December 2017 and interim periods therein. The core principle contemplated by ASU 2014-09 is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount 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 were originally required to adopt ASU 2014-09 in the first quarter of 2017 and early application is not permitted. Subsequently, the FASB proposed a one-year deferral of the effective date for this standard. If the deferral is adopted, we would be required to adopt the standard in the first quarter of 2018 and retroactively apply it to our 2016 and 2017 financial results at the time of adoption. We can choose to apply the standard using either the full retrospective approach or a modified retrospective approach, which recognizes a cumulative catch up adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings. We are currently assessing the impact of adopting this pronouncement and the transition method we will use.
	Also in April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-03 Interest - Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30) Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs. Under the ASU, an entity presents their debt issuance cost on the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of their debt liability, similar to their debt discounts, rather than as an asset as has been done previously. Amortization of the cost is reported as interest expense. We are required to adopt ASU 2015-03 in the first quarter of 2016, with early adoption being permitted. We are also required to apply the new guidance on a retrospective basis, wherein the balance sheet of each period presented is adjusted to reflect the effects of applying the new guidance. At the end of the first quarter, we had $51.2 million of debt issuance costs recorded as assets, which amount to less than 1% of our total assets.

Basis_of_presentation_and_summ2

Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
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	Mar. 29, 2015		Dec. 28, 2014
	Current assets	$	21,247	$	20,541
	Plant, property and equipment, net	9,832		10,084
	Intangible and other assets	29,192		29,412
	Total assets	$	60,271	$	60,037
	Current liabilities	$	10,586	$	11,635
	Noncurrent liabilities	23,829		26,028
	Total liabilities	$	34,415	$	37,663

Goodwill_and_other_intangible_1

Goodwill and other intangible assets (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
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 March 29, 2015 and December 28, 2014:
	In thousands	Mar. 29, 2015					Dec. 28, 2014
		Gross		Accumulated Amortization			Gross			Accumulated Amortization
	Goodwill	$	4,475,941	$	—		$	4,499,927		$	—
	Indefinite-lived intangibles:
	Television station FCC licenses	1,191,950		—			1,191,950			—
	Mastheads and trade names	951,357		—			951,776			—
	Amortizable intangible assets:
	Customer relationships	1,076,158		233,070			1,078,738			212,438
	Other	279,053		60,577			282,856			53,289
Changes in the Company's net goodwill	The following table summarizes the changes in our net goodwill balance through March 29, 2015:
	In thousands	Broadcasting		Digital			Publishing			Total
	Balance at Dec. 28, 2014:
	Goodwill	$	2,578,601	$	1,488,139		$	7,662,543		$	11,729,283
	Accumulated impairment losses	—		(151,970		)	(7,077,386		)	(7,229,356		)
	Net balance at Dec. 28, 2014	2,578,601		1,336,169			585,157			4,499,927
	Activity during the period:
	Acquisitions and adjustments	516		2,248			—			2,764
	Impairment	—		—			(5,940		)	(5,940		)
	Foreign currency exchange rate changes	—		(12,425		)	(8,385		)	(20,810		)
	Total	516		(10,177		)	(14,325		)	(23,986		)
	Balance at Mar. 29, 2015:
	Goodwill	2,579,117		1,477,962			7,554,744			11,611,823
	Accumulated impairment losses	—		(151,970		)	(6,983,912		)	(7,135,882		)
	Net balance at Mar. 29, 2015	$	2,579,117	$	1,325,992		$	570,832		$	4,475,941
	On July 8, 2014, we acquired six London Broadcasting Company television stations and on October 1, 2014 we completed the acquisition of the remaining 73% that we did not already own in Cars.com (formerly Classified Ventures, LLC). The initial purchase price allocations are preliminary based upon all information available to us at the present time and are subject to change. We continue to review underlying assumptions utilized to calculate the fair value of primarily the indefinite-lived and amortizable intangible assets, property, plant and equipment, investments and deferred income taxes.

Longterm_debt_Tables

Long-term debt (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary Long-term debt	Our long-term debt is summarized below:
	In thousands	Mar. 29, 2015			Dec. 28, 2014
	Unsecured floating rate term loan due quarterly through August 2018	$	115,300		$	123,200
	VIE unsecured floating rate term loans due quarterly through December 2018	31,254			33,379
	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
	Borrowings under revolving credit agreement expiring August 2018	510,000			640,000
	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 4.875% due September 2021	350,000			350,000
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 6.375% due October 2023	650,000			650,000
	Unsecured notes bearing fixed rate interest at 5.50% due September 2024	325,000			325,000
	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	4,381,551			4,521,576
	Other (fair market value adjustments and discounts)	(22,149		)	(25,694		)
	Total long-term debt	4,359,402			4,495,882
	Less current portion of long-term debt maturities of VIE loans	7,854			7,854
	Long-term debt, net of current portion	$	4,351,548		$	4,488,028

Retirement_plans_Tables

Retirement plans (Tables) (Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member])	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
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
		Mar. 29, 2015			Mar. 30, 2014
	Service cost-benefits earned during the period	$	1,334		$	1,831
	Interest cost on benefit obligation	38,327			42,366
	Expected return on plan assets	(56,069		)	(58,574		)
	Amortization of prior service cost	1,882			1,882
	Amortization of actuarial loss	15,295			11,227
	Expense (credit) for company-sponsored retirement plans	$	769		$	(1,268	)

Postretirement_benefits_other_1

Postretirement benefits other than pension (Tables) (Other Postretirement Benefit Plan, Defined Benefit [Member])	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
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
		Mar. 29, 2015			Mar. 30, 2014
	Service cost-benefits earned during the period	$	106		$	118
	Interest cost on net benefit obligation	993			1,485
	Amortization of prior service credit	(2,500		)	(2,367		)
	Amortization of actuarial loss	400			208
	Net periodic post-retirement benefit credit	$	(1,001	)	$	(556	)

Supplemental_equity_informatio1

Supplemental equity information (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Equity	The following table summarizes equity account activity for the thirteen week periods ended March 29, 2015 and March 30, 2014:
	In thousands	Gannett Co., Inc. Shareholders’ Equity			Noncontrolling Interests			Total Equity
	Balance at Dec. 28, 2014	$	3,254,914		$	234,359		$	3,489,273
	Comprehensive income:
	Net income	112,894			14,590			127,484
	Redeemable noncontrolling interest (income not available to shareholders)	—			(1,233		)	(1,233		)
	Other comprehensive loss	(2,268		)	(5,566		)	(7,834		)
	Total comprehensive income	110,626			7,791			118,417
	Dividends declared	(45,371		)	—			(45,371		)
	Stock-based compensation	9,114			—			9,114
	Treasury shares acquired	(37,520		)	—			(37,520		)
	Other activity	2,723			(969		)	1,754
	Balance at Mar. 29, 2015	$	3,294,486		$	241,181		$	3,535,667
	Balance at Dec. 29, 2013	$	2,693,098		$	201,695		$	2,894,793
	Comprehensive income:
	Net income	59,159			10,430			69,589
	Redeemable noncontrolling interest (income not available to shareholders)	—			(455		)	(455		)
	Other comprehensive income	26,859			242			27,101
	Total comprehensive income	86,018			10,217			96,235
	Dividends declared	(45,234		)	—			(45,234		)
	Stock-based compensation	8,901			—			8,901
	Treasury shares acquired	(37,937		)	—			(37,937		)
	Other activity	9,296			(1,210		)	8,086
	Balance at Mar. 30, 2014	$	2,714,142		$	210,702		$	2,924,844
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 Dec. 28, 2014	$	(1,169,882	)	$	391,113		$	(778,769	)
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	14,831			(26,744		)	(11,913		)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	9,645			—			9,645
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	24,476			(26,744		)	(2,268		)
	Balance at Mar. 29, 2015	$	(1,145,406	)	$	364,369		$	(781,037	)
	Balance at Dec. 29, 2013	$	(921,232	)	$	427,177		$	(494,055	)
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	15,104			4,653			19,757
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	7,102			—			7,102
	Other comprehensive income	22,206			4,653			26,859
	Balance at Mar. 30, 2014	$	(899,026	)	$	431,830		$	(467,196	)
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
		Mar. 29, 2015			Mar. 30, 2014
	Amortization of prior service credit	$	(618	)	$	(485	)
	Amortization of actuarial loss	15,695			11,435
	Total reclassifications, before tax	15,077			10,950
	Income tax effect	(5,432		)	(3,848		)
	Total reclassifications, net of tax	$	9,645		$	7,102

Fair_value_measurement_Tables

Fair value measurement (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
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 March 29, 2015 and December 28, 2014:
	In thousands	Fair Value Measurements as of Mar. 29, 2015
		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Employee compensation related investments	$	34,901	$	—	$	—	$	34,901
	Sundry investments	37,065		—		—		37,065
	Total assets	$	71,966	$	—	$	—	$	71,966
	Contingent consideration payable	$	—	$	—	$	7,974	$	7,974
	Total liabilities	$	—	$	—	$	7,974	$	7,974
	In thousands	Fair Value Measurements as of Dec. 28, 2014
		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Employee compensation related investments	$	41,017	$	—	$	—	$	41,017
	Sundry investments	36,641		—		—		36,641
	Total assets	$	77,658	$	—	$	—	$	77,658
	Contingent consideration payable	$	—	$	—	$	9,912	$	9,912
	Total liabilities	$	—	$	—	$	9,912	$	9,912

Business_segment_information_T

Business segment information (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Business Segment Information
	In thousands	Thirteen Weeks Ended
		Mar. 29, 2015			Mar. 30, 2014
	Net Operating Revenues:
	Broadcasting	$	396,794		$	382,268
	Digital	332,699			179,735
	Publishing	768,188			842,063
	Intersegment eliminations (a)	(24,916		)	—
	Total	$	1,472,765		$	1,404,066
	Operating Income (net of depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation and asset impairment charges):
	Broadcasting	$	175,330		$	154,549
	Digital	56,153			23,824
	Publishing	18,305			42,988
	Corporate	(18,860		)	(17,367		)
	Total	$	230,928		$	203,994
	Depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation and asset impairment charges:
	Broadcasting	$	21,261		$	27,194
	Digital	32,827			8,288
	Publishing	36,125			36,591
	Corporate	3,741			5,254
	Total	$	93,954		$	77,327
	(a) Includes intersegment eliminations of $19 million for Digital and $5 million for Publishing.

Earnings_per_share_Tables

Earnings per share (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015
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
		Mar. 29, 2015		Mar. 30, 2014
	Net income attributable to Gannett Co., Inc.	$	112,894	$	59,159
	Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - basic	227,089		227,230
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Restricted stock	2,267		2,711
	Performance share units	1,692		1,239
	Stock options	883		1,088
	Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - diluted	231,931		232,268
	Net income per share - basic	$	0.5	$	0.26
	Net income per share - diluted	$	0.49	$	0.25

Basis_of_presentation_and_summ3

Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 29, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Debt Issuance Cost	$51,200,000
Assets, Current	1,373,468,000	1,480,465,000
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net	1,556,188,000	1,609,215,000
Intangible Assets And Other Assets Noncurrent	8,054,804,000	8,115,775,000
Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets	60,353,000	60,037,000
Liabilities, Current	1,054,784,000	1,127,936,000
Liabilities, Noncurrent	6,381,192,000	6,567,776,000
debt issuance cost as percent of total assets	1.00%
VIE Consolidated for Four Stations in Louisville, KY; Portland OR; and Tucson, AZ [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Assets, Current	21,247,000	20,541,000
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net	9,832,000	10,084,000
Intangible Assets And Other Assets Noncurrent	29,192,000	29,412,000
Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets	60,271,000	60,037,000
Liabilities, Current	10,586,000	11,635,000
Liabilities, Noncurrent	23,829,000	26,028,000
Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities	$34,415,000	$37,663,000

Acquisitions_and_dispositions_

Acquisitions and dispositions (Details Textual) (Economic Modeling [Member])	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Economic Modeling [Member]
Acquisitions Investments and Disposals [Line Items]
Noncontrolling interest, ownership change	11.00%
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent	85.00%	74.00%

Facility_consolidation_and_ass1

Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges (Details Textual) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015	Mar. 30, 2014
Unusual or Infrequent Item [Line Items]
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	$5,940,000
Property, plant and equipment and other [Member]
Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges (Textual) [Abstract]
Asset impairment and other charges, pre-tax amount	12,400,000	14,800,000
Publishing [Member]
Unusual or Infrequent Item [Line Items]
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	5,940,000
Broadcasting [Member]
Unusual or Infrequent Item [Line Items]
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] | Publishing [Member]
Unusual or Infrequent Item [Line Items]
Goodwill, Fair Value Disclosure	$0

Goodwill_and_other_intangible_2

Goodwill and other intangible assets (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 29, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Goodwill	$4,475,941	$4,499,927
Customer Relationships [Member]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	1,076,158	1,078,738
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	233,070	212,438
Other [Member]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	279,053	282,856
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	60,577	53,289
Television station FCC licenses [Member]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)	1,191,950	1,191,950
Intangible Assets Accumulated Amortization	0	0
Mastheads and trade names [Member]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)	951,357	951,776
Intangible Assets Accumulated Amortization	0	0
Goodwill [Member]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Goodwill	4,475,941	4,499,927
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 $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2015
Changes in the Company's net goodwill
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	$11,729,283
Accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	-7,229,356
Ending balance	4,499,927
Acquisitions and adjustments	2,764
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	-5,940
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	-20,810
Total	-23,986
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	11,611,823
Accumulated impairment losses ending balance	-7,135,882
Ending balance	4,475,941
Broadcasting [Member]
Changes in the Company's net goodwill
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	2,578,601
Accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	0
Ending balance	2,578,601
Acquisitions and adjustments	516
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	0
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	0
Total	516
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	2,579,117
Accumulated impairment losses ending balance	0
Ending balance	2,579,117
Publishing [Member]
Changes in the Company's net goodwill
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	7,662,543
Accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	-7,077,386
Ending balance	585,157
Acquisitions and adjustments	0
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	-5,940
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	-8,385
Total	-14,325
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	7,554,744
Accumulated impairment losses ending balance	-6,983,912
Ending balance	570,832
Digital [Member]
Changes in the Company's net goodwill
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	1,488,139
Accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	-151,970
Ending balance	1,336,169
Acquisitions and adjustments	2,248
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	0
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	-12,425
Total	-10,177
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	1,477,962
Accumulated impairment losses ending balance	-151,970
Ending balance	$1,325,992

Goodwill_and_other_intangible_4

Goodwill and other intangible assets (Details Textual)	Jul. 08, 2014	Oct. 01, 2014
	station
London Broadcasting Company [Member]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Number Of Television Stations	6
Classified Ventures [Member]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Business Acquisitions, Purchase Price Allocation, Year of Acquisition, Description		73.00%

Longterm_debt_Details

Long-term debt (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 29, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Gross	$4,381,551	$4,521,576
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net	-22,149	-25,694
Long-term Debt	4,359,402	4,495,882
Current portion of long-term debt	7,854	7,854
Summary Long-term debt
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities	4,351,548	4,488,028
Unsecured Floating Rate Term Loan Due Quarterly Through August 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	115,300	123,200
Unsecured Floating Rate Term Loan Due Quarterly Through December 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	31,254	33,379
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
Debt Instrument, 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
Debt Instrument, 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
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	10.00%
Revolving Credit Agreements Expiring August 2018 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	510,000	640,000
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
Debt Instrument, 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
Debt Instrument, 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
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	5.13%
Unsecured Fixed Rate Notes 4.875 Percent Due September 2021 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	350,000	350,000
Summary Long-term debt
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	4.88%
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
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	6.38%
Unsecured Fixed Rate Notes 5.500 Percent Due September 2024 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	325,000	325,000
Summary Long-term debt
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	5.50%
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
Debt Instrument, 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
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	7.25%

Longterm_debt_LongTerm_Debt_Ad

Long-term debt Long-Term Debt - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2015
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Reduction in Long Term Debt Repayments Net of Discount Amortization	($136.50)
Repayments of Long-term Debt	140
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity	$759.70

Retirement_plans_Details

Retirement plans (Details) (Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2015	Mar. 30, 2014
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Company's pension costs
Service cost-benefits earned during the period	$1,334	$1,831
Interest cost on benefit obligation	38,327	42,366
Expected return on plan assets	-56,069	-58,574
Amortization of prior service cost	1,882	1,882
Amortization of actuarial loss	15,295	11,227
Expense (credit) for company-sponsored retirement plans	$769	($1,268)

Retirement_plans_Details_Textu

Retirement plans (Details Textual) (Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member])	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2015	Mar. 29, 2015	Jun. 28, 2015
	Newsquest Retirement Plan [Member]	Newsquest Retirement Plan [Member]	Subsequent Event [Member]
	USD ($)	United Kingdom, Pounds	Gannett Retirement Plan [Member]
		GBP (£)	USD ($)
Retirement Plans (Textual) [Abstract]
Contribution to the defined benefit plans	$2.90	£ 1.9	$12
Defined Benefit Plans, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Current Fiscal Year		£ 6.3

Postretirement_benefits_other_2

Postretirement benefits other than pension (Details) (Other Postretirement Benefit Plan, Defined Benefit [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2015	Mar. 30, 2014
Other Postretirement Benefit Plan, Defined Benefit [Member]
Postretirement benefit costs for health care and life insurance
Service cost-benefits earned during the period	$106	$118
Interest cost on net benefit obligation	993	1,485
Amortization of prior service credit	-2,500	-2,367
Amortization of actuarial loss	400	208
Net periodic post-retirement benefit credit	($1,001)	($556)

Postretirement_benefits_other_3

Postretirement benefits other than pension (Details Textual) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2015	Mar. 30, 2014
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Remeasurement of post-retirement benefits liability	$0	$33,907
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 $)	Mar. 29, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Income Taxes (Textual) [Abstract]
Unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact effective tax rate	$48.40	$46.80
Accrued interest and penalties payable related to unrecognized tax benefits	7	6.9
Estimated decrease in gross unrecognized tax positions within the next 12 months, maximum	$4.50

Supplemental_equity_informatio2

Supplemental equity information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2015	Mar. 30, 2014
Equity Note [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	$3,489,273	$2,894,793
Comprehensive income:
Net income	127,484	69,589
Redeemable noncontrolling interest (income not available to shareholders)	-1,233	-455
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-7,834	27,101
Total comprehensive income	118,417	96,235
Dividends declared	-45,371	-45,234
Stock-based compensation	9,114	8,901
Treasury shares acquired	-37,520	-37,937
Other activity	1,754	8,086
Ending Balance	3,535,667	2,924,844
Gannett Co., Inc. Shareholders' Equity [Member]
Equity Note [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	3,254,914	2,693,098
Comprehensive income:
Net income	112,894	59,159
Redeemable noncontrolling interest (income not available to shareholders)	0	0
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-2,268	26,859
Total comprehensive income	110,626	86,018
Dividends declared	-45,371	-45,234
Stock-based compensation	9,114	8,901
Treasury shares acquired	-37,520	-37,937
Other activity	2,723	9,296
Ending Balance	3,294,486	2,714,142
Noncontrolling Interests [Member]
Equity Note [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	234,359	201,695
Comprehensive income:
Net income	14,590	10,430
Redeemable noncontrolling interest (income not available to shareholders)	-1,233	-455
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-5,566	242
Total comprehensive income	7,791	10,217
Dividends declared	0	0
Stock-based compensation	0	0
Treasury shares acquired	0	0
Other activity	-969	-1,210
Ending Balance	$241,181	$210,702

Supplemental_equity_informatio3

Supplemental equity information (Details Textual) (Economic Modeling [Member])	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Economic Modeling [Member]
Supplemental equity information (Textual) [Abstract]
Percentage of acquired company	85.00%	74.00%
Noncontrolling interest, ownership change	11.00%
Shareholders for remaining of ownership percentage	15.00%

Supplemental_equity_informatio4

Supplemental equity information (Details 1) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2015	Mar. 30, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	($778,769)	($494,055)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	-11,913	19,757
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	9,645	7,102
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-2,268	26,859
Ending Balance	-781,037	-467,196
Retirement Plans [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	-1,169,882	-921,232
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	14,831	15,104
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	9,645	7,102
Other comprehensive income (loss)	24,476	22,206
Ending Balance	-1,145,406	-899,026
Foreign Currency Translation [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	391,113	427,177
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	-26,744	4,653
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	0	0
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-26,744	4,653
Ending Balance	$364,369	$431,830

Supplemental_equity_informatio5

Supplemental equity information (Details 2) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2015	Mar. 30, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Amortization of actuarial loss	$15,695	$11,435
Income before income taxes	188,007	122,089
Income tax effect	-60,523	-52,500
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	9,645	7,102
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	9,645	7,102
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	-618	-485
Amortization of actuarial loss	15,695	11,435
Income before income taxes	15,077	10,950
Income tax effect	($5,432)	($3,848)

Fair_value_measurement_Details

Fair value measurement (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
assets and liabilities measured at fair value
Employee compensation related investments	34,901	$41,017
Sundry investments	37,065	36,641
Total assets	71,966	77,658
Contingent consideration payable	7,974	9,912
Total liabilities	7,974	9,912
Level 1 [Member]
assets and liabilities measured at fair value
Employee compensation related investments	34,901	41,017
Sundry investments	37,065	36,641
Total assets	71,966	77,658
Contingent consideration payable	0	0
Total liabilities	0	0
Level 2 [Member]
assets and liabilities measured at fair value
Employee compensation related investments	0	0
Sundry investments	0	0
Total assets	0	0
Contingent consideration payable	0	0
Total liabilities	0	0
Level 3 [Member]
assets and liabilities measured at fair value
Employee compensation related investments	0	0
Sundry investments	0	0
Total assets	0	0
Contingent consideration payable	7,974	9,912
Total liabilities	7,974	$9,912
Minimum [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	15.00%
Maximum [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	27.00%

Fair_value_measurement_Details1

Fair value measurement (Details Textual) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2015	Dec. 28, 2014
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	$5,940,000
Fair Value Measurement (Textual) [Abstract]
Contingent Consideration change in value	1,900,000
Fair value of total long-term debt	4,590,000,000	4,650,000,000
Publishing [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	5,940,000
Publishing [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Goodwill, Fair Value Disclosure	$0

Business_segment_information_D

Business segment information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2015	Mar. 30, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Revenues	$1,472,765	$1,404,066
Operating Income (net of depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges)	230,928	203,994
Depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges	93,954	77,327
Broadcasting [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of television stations	46
Operating Revenues	396,794	382,268
Operating Income (net of depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges)	175,330	154,549
Depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges	21,261	27,194
Digital [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Revenues	332,699	179,735
Operating Income (net of depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges)	56,153	23,824
Depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges	32,827	8,288
Publishing [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Revenues	768,188	842,063
Operating Income (net of depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges)	18,305	42,988
Depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges	36,125	36,591
Corporate [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Income (net of depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges)	-18,860	-17,367
Depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges	3,741	5,254
Intersegment Eliminations [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Revenues	-24,916	0
Intersegment Eliminations [Member] | Digital [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Revenues	19,000
Intersegment Eliminations [Member] | Publishing [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Revenues	$5,000

Earnings_per_share_Details

Earnings per share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2015	Mar. 30, 2014
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract]
Net income attributable to Gannett Co., Inc.	$112,894	$59,159
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - basic	227,089	227,230
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - diluted	231,931	232,268
Net income per share – basic (In dollars per share)	$0.50	$0.26
Net income per share – diluted (In dollars per share)	$0.49	$0.25
Restricted Stock [Member]
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract]
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements	2,267	2,711
Performance Shares [Member]
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract]
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements	1,692	1,239
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract]
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements	883	1,088

Earnings_per_share_Details_Tex

Earnings per share (Details Textual)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2015	Mar. 30, 2014
Earnings Per Share (Textual) [Abstract]
Diluted earnings per share amounts excluded stock options outstanding	0.3	2.3