The legacy media’s had a bruising week. First, Sky News unveiled its “exciting” new strategy—hiding content behind a paywall as it scrambles away from traditional linear broadcasting. Now Guido hears it’s panic stations over at the Mail…
Rumours in the newsroom suggest a big shake-up is incoming, with an announcement expected as soon as today. Some Mail hacks fear a full-blown merger of print and online, meaning all paper hacks will have to start writing digital-first. Even worse, swathes of job cuts are being floated with potentially up to 200 journos facing the chop to streamline the outlet. Another brutal reality check for a crumbling media format…
UPDATE: Confirmed in staff email:
“So, from the middle of March, our print and digital news operations will fully come together with reporters and editors producing stories for online and the papers.
At the same time The Mail on Sunday, already a seven-day operation in many respects, will become even more integrated – while retaining its individual columnists and character under Editor David Dillon.
There will also be changes to other areas where we think we can be more efficient, and where there is still unnecessary duplication.
The aim is to target resources where they’re needed most – producing the superb-quality journalism and world-leading long- form features the Mail is famous for.
Regrettably, these changes will result in a number of job losses.
There will be a 30-day consultation period for those affected. Some roles will be placed at risk of redundancy, while other staff may see an alteration in working pattern, job title, line manager or duties. Others will see no change at all.
If you are likely to be impacted, then you will shortly hear from your Managing Editor who will explain what the proposed changes may mean for you and provide details about next steps. Of course, all those affected will be treated with dignity and fairness.
It’s never easy to lose talented colleagues and we understand that the next few weeks, while we implement this restructuring, will not be easy for many of you.
Although it is hard, this is undoubtedly the right choice for the business. Throughout its long history, the Mail has shaped its own destiny and will continue to do so.”
Speaking to Sky News off the back of Rachel Reeves’ Air Passenger Duty hike, Ryanair chief executive Michael O’Leary said:
“Labour is dependent on those Red Wall seats, and yet every move she makes poisons economic growth and damages the UK’s recovery… it’s the Chancellor who stumbles from policy misstep to policy misstep… I think her policy decisions are incredibly stupid.”