Talks are underway between the Fed and News UK executives following protests by members outside the newspaper publisher’s London and Glasgow offices and its print site at Knowsley, Merseyside yesterday (Wednesday, July 9).
Dozens of members had gathered outside the three sites to protest about News UK’s plans to cut the retail margin on both The Times and the Sun at the same time as the cover prices rise.
During the protest, the Fed’s new National President Hetal Patel, national vice president Hemanshu Patel and director of news and operations Brian Murphy were invited inside the building to meet with News UK’s director of retail and wholesale Tracy Hart.
During the 45-minute meeting, the Fed explained the impact that the move would have on members’ viability and the knock-on effect on local communities.
Speaking after the meeting, Hetal Patel said: “The news of the cut in terms was not well received by members which is why we took the decision to hold a peaceful protest outside News UK’s offices in London and Glasgow and at its Knowsley print site.
“Throughout the meeting, we appealed to News UK to think again and to reverse its decision to cut our percentage retail margin. We explained that members are being squeezed so much, that if publishers are not careful, there will be no retail estate left to sell its products.
“Pro rata terms are necessary if Fed members are to cover increasing overheads. Only by doing this can publishers ensure that independent retailers remain viable as news retailers.”
Mr Patel added: “Ms Hart listened to our concerns and said she would raise them internally with News UK executive officers, ahead of a follow up meeting next week.”