GCI-2014.09.28-10Q


 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
_______________________
FORM 10-Q
_______________________
ý
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended September 28, 2014
OR
¨
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Commission file number 1-6961
___________________________
GANNETT CO., INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
___________________________
Delaware
 
16-0442930
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
 
 
 
7950 Jones Branch Drive, McLean, Virginia
 
22107-0910
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (703) 854-6000.
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ý No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes ý No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large Accelerated Filer
ý
Accelerated Filer
¨
 
 
 
 
Non-Accelerated Filer
¨
Smaller Reporting Company
¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act): Yes ¨ No ý
The total number of shares of the registrant’s Common Stock, $1 par value outstanding as of September 28, 2014 was 225,830,862.
 




PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
Gannett Co., Inc. and Subsidiaries
In thousands, except share data
 
Sept. 28, 2014
 
Dec. 29, 2013
 
(Unaudited)
 
 
ASSETS
 
 
 
Current assets
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
1,374,515

 
$
469,203

Trade receivables, less allowance for doubtful accounts (2014 - $19,702; 2013 - $15,275)
768,653

 
834,052

Other receivables
32,495

 
28,592

Inventories
52,100

 
49,950

Deferred income taxes
19,634

 
21,245

Assets held for sale
54,458

 
395,851

Prepaid expenses and other current assets
142,156

 
124,592

Total current assets
2,444,011

 
1,923,485

Property, plant and equipment
 
 
 
Cost
4,005,593

 
4,007,879

Less accumulated depreciation
(2,391,103
)
 
(2,338,247
)
Net property, plant and equipment
1,614,490

 
1,669,632

Intangible and other assets
 
 
 
Goodwill
3,836,940

 
3,790,472

Indefinite-lived and amortizable intangible assets, less accumulated amortization
1,573,045

 
1,477,231

Deferred income taxes
59,722

 

Investments and other assets
388,852

 
379,886

Total intangible and other assets
5,858,559

 
5,647,589

Total assets (a)
$
9,917,060

 
$
9,240,706

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

2



CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
Gannett Co., Inc. and Subsidiaries
In thousands, except share data
 
Sept. 28, 2014
 
Dec. 29, 2013
 
(Unaudited)
 
 
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
 
 
 
Current liabilities
 
 
 
Accounts payable and current portion of film contracts payable
$
241,830

 
$
215,300

Accrued expenses
473,313

 
499,162

Dividends payable
45,313

 
45,645

Income taxes
126,212

 
17,791

Deferred income
230,580

 
223,404

Current portion of long-term debt
5,890

 
5,890

Total current liabilities
1,123,138

 
1,007,192

Noncurrent liabilities
 
 
 
Income taxes
53,708

 
49,748

Deferred income taxes
650,408

 
587,904

Long-term debt
4,106,717

 
3,707,010

Post-retirement medical and life insurance liabilities
84,991

 
129,078

Pension liabilities
488,754

 
632,195

Other noncurrent liabilities
213,039

 
218,168

Total noncurrent liabilities
5,597,617

 
5,324,103

Total liabilities (a)
6,720,755

 
6,331,295

 
 
 
 
Redeemable noncontrolling interests
18,470

 
14,618

 
 
 
 
Commitments and contingent liabilities (See Note 13)


 


 
 
 
 
Equity
 
 
 
Gannett Co., Inc. shareholders’ equity
 
 
 
Preferred stock of $1 par value per share, 2,000,000 shares authorized, none issued

 

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
564,873

 
552,368

Retained earnings
7,971,532

 
7,720,903

Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(463,354
)
 
(494,055
)
 
8,397,470

 
8,103,635

Less treasury stock, at cost (2014 - 98,587,770 shares; 2013 - 96,849,744 shares)
(5,462,103
)
 
(5,410,537
)
Total Gannett Co., Inc. shareholders’ equity
2,935,367

 
2,693,098

Noncontrolling interests
242,468

 
201,695

Total equity
3,177,835

 
2,894,793

Total liabilities and equity
$
9,917,060

 
$
9,240,706

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

(a) Our consolidated assets as of September 28, 2014 include total assets of $60.4 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 September 28, 2014 include total liabilities of $2.1 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.

3



CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Gannett Co., Inc. and Subsidiaries
Unaudited, in thousands, except share data

 
Thirteen Weeks Ended
 
Thirty-nine Weeks Ended
 
Sept. 28, 2014
 
Sept. 29, 2013
 
Sept. 28, 2014
 
Sept. 29, 2013
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net Operating Revenues:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Broadcasting
$
416,509

 
$
203,364

 
$
1,197,035

 
$
606,906

Publishing advertising
494,899

 
520,189

 
1,526,382

 
1,609,164

Publishing circulation
276,829

 
274,999

 
836,756

 
840,626

All other Publishing
55,098

 
62,891

 
173,116

 
183,753

Digital
199,802

 
191,447

 
573,918

 
552,875

Total
1,443,137

 
1,252,890

 
4,307,207

 
3,793,324

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating Expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cost of sales and operating expenses, exclusive of depreciation
757,301

 
713,369

 
2,300,460

 
2,159,962

Selling, general and administrative expenses, exclusive of depreciation
347,123

 
315,677

 
1,056,115

 
950,407

Depreciation
46,681

 
38,195

 
136,295

 
115,588

Amortization of intangible assets
14,894

 
8,071

 
47,108

 
26,567

Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges
6,621

 
5,880

 
50,216

 
15,163

Total
1,172,620

 
1,081,192

 
3,590,194

 
3,267,687

Operating income
270,517

 
171,698

 
717,013

 
525,637

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Non-operating (expense) income:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Equity income in unconsolidated investees, net
1,756

 
11,711

 
166,787

 
28,929

Interest expense
(65,931
)
 
(41,628
)
 
(199,727
)
 
(113,207
)
Other non-operating items
(17,450
)
 
(17,580
)
 
(41,180
)
 
(28,954
)
Total
(81,625
)
 
(47,497
)
 
(74,120
)
 
(113,232
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income before income taxes
188,892

 
124,201

 
642,893

 
412,405

Provision for income taxes
48,900

 
26,700

 
207,400

 
71,700

Net income
139,992

 
97,501

 
435,493

 
340,705

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
(21,476
)
 
(17,753
)
 
(49,351
)
 
(42,772
)
Net income attributable to Gannett Co., Inc.
$
118,516

 
$
79,748

 
$
386,142

 
$
297,933

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income per share – basic
$
0.52

 
$
0.35

 
$
1.71

 
$
1.30

Net income per share – diluted
$
0.51

 
$
0.34

 
$
1.66

 
$
1.27

Dividends declared per share
$
0.20

 
$
0.20

 
$
0.60

 
$
0.60

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.


4



CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Gannett Co., Inc. and Subsidiaries
Unaudited, in thousands

 
Thirteen Weeks Ended
 
Thirty-nine Weeks Ended
 
Sept. 28, 2014
 
Sept. 29, 2013
 
Sept. 28, 2014
 
Sept. 29, 2013
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
$
139,992

 
$
97,501

 
$
435,493

 
$
340,705

Redeemable noncontrolling interests (income not available to shareholders)
(359
)
 
(396
)
 
(2,209
)
 
(642
)
Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
(28,412
)
 
30,471

 
(10,951
)
 
(2,402
)
Pension and other post-retirement benefit items:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Amortization of prior service credit, net
(1,191
)
 
(403
)
 
(2,891
)
 
(1,209
)
Amortization of actuarial loss
11,668

 
16,071

 
34,901

 
48,206

Remeasurement of post-retirement benefits liability

 

 
33,907

 

Other
18,068

 
(18,202
)
 
2,656

 
729

Pension and other post-retirement benefit items
28,545

 
(2,534
)
 
68,573

 
47,726

Other
(4,912
)
 
2,665

 
(3,851
)
 
802

Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax
(4,779
)
 
30,602

 
53,771

 
46,126

Income tax effect related to components of other comprehensive income
(4,945
)
 
(1,648
)
 
(26,921
)
 
(17,665
)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
(9,724
)
 
28,954

 
26,850

 
28,461

Comprehensive income
129,909

 
126,059

 
460,134

 
368,524

Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax
(16,205
)
 
(20,022
)
 
(43,291
)
 
(42,932
)
Comprehensive income attributable to Gannett Co., Inc.
$
113,704

 
$
106,037

 
$
416,843

 
$
325,592

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

5



CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Gannett Co., Inc. and Subsidiaries
Unaudited, in thousands

 
Thirty-nine Weeks Ended
 
Sept. 28, 2014
 
Sept. 29, 2013
 
 
 
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
Net income
$
435,493

 
$
340,705

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flow from operating activities:
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
183,403

 
142,155

Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges
51,210

 
16,082

Pension contributions, net of pension expense
(100,983
)
 
(76,251
)
Equity income in unconsolidated investees, net
(166,787
)
 
(28,929
)
Stock-based compensation – equity awards
25,133

 
23,130

Change in other assets and liabilities, net
145,132

 
(67,934
)
Net cash flow from operating activities
572,601

 
348,958

Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
 
Purchase of property, plant and equipment
(91,559
)
 
(72,668
)
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired
(202,724
)
 
(17,527
)
Payments for investments
(5,318
)
 
(3,380
)
Proceeds from investments
166,251

 
34,779

Proceeds from sale of certain assets
303,539

 
34,336

Net cash flow from (used for) investing activities
170,189

 
(24,460
)
Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
 
Payments of borrowings under revolving credit agreements, net

 
(205,000
)
Proceeds from (payments of) unsecured floating rate term loans
(27,627
)
 
154,800

Payments of unsecured fixed rate notes
(250,000
)
 

Proceeds from unsecured fixed rate notes
666,732

 
591,396

Payments of debt issuance and financing costs
(10,005
)
 
(21,838
)
Dividends paid
(136,059
)
 
(137,520
)
Cost of common shares repurchased
(75,815
)
 
(78,786
)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options
11,915

 
15,162

Distribution to noncontrolling interests
(877
)
 
(218
)
Deferred payments for acquisitions
(15,687
)
 
(6,132
)
Net cash from financing activities
162,577

 
311,864

Effect of currency exchange rate change on cash
(55
)
 
(25
)
Increase in cash and cash equivalents
905,312

 
636,337

Balance of cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
469,203

 
175,030

Balance of cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
1,374,515

 
$
811,367

 
 
 
 
Supplemental cash flow information:
 
 
 
Cash paid for taxes, net of refunds
$
112,802

 
$
102,793

Cash paid for interest
$
167,513

 
$
85,228

Non-cash investing and financing activities:
 
 
 
Assets-held-for-sale proceeds
$
146,428

 
$

Escrow deposit disbursement related to London Broadcasting Company television stations acquisition
$
(134,908
)
 
$

Capital expenditures
$
(11,520
)
 
$

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

6



NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
September 28, 2014
NOTE 1 – 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
Sept. 28, 2014

Dec. 29, 2013




Current assets
$
20,420


$
4,677

Plant, property and equipment, net
9,015


8,061

Intangible and other assets
30,918


32,008

Total assets
$
60,353


$
44,746

 
 
 
 
Current liabilities
$
6,973


$
7,827

Noncurrent liabilities
30,501


34,173

Total liabilities
$
37,474


$
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 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 are required to adopt ASU 2014-09 in the first quarter of 2017 and early application is not permitted. However, we will need to retroactively apply the standard to 2015 and 2016 at the time of adoption. 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).

7



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.
NOTE 2 – Acquisitions and dispositions
On February 28, 2014, we completed the previously announced sale of KMOV-TV in St. Louis, MO, to Meredith Corporation, following regulatory approval. As a condition 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 needed to provide services to KMOV-TV, which we also acquired from Belo Corp.
In March 2014, Classified Ventures, in which we owned a 26.9% interest, agreed to sell Apartments.com to CoStar Group, Inc. for $585 million.  This transaction closed on April 1, 2014. As a result of our ownership stake, we received a special $154.6 million distribution from Classified Ventures after the close of the 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 June 19, 2014, we, together with Sander Media LLC, completed the previously announced sale of KTVK-TV and KASW-TV in Phoenix, AZ, to Meredith Corporation, following regulatory approval. As part of the sale, Sander Media conveyed to Meredith all of the assets used to operate both stations, which Sander Media acquired when the Belo transaction was completed in December 2013. We also conveyed certain other assets used to provide services to 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 plus working capital.
On July 8, 2014, we acquired six London Broadcasting Company television stations in Texas for approximately $215.0 million in an all-cash transaction. We used proceeds of $134.9 million from the sale of the Phoenix and St. Louis stations to partially pay for these London Broadcasting Company stations via a tax efficient structure. The acquisition included 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.
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. The planned separation of the Publishing business will be implemented through a tax-free distribution of shares of a new entity 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 to be filed with the SEC in regard to the shares of the entity formed to hold our Publishing assets, and other customary matters. There can be no assurance regarding the ultimate timing of the proposed transaction or that it will be completed.
On October 1, 2014, we acquired the remaining 73% interest in Classified Ventures LLC, which owns Cars.com, for $1.8 billion. We funded the acquisition from our sale of $350.0 million aggregate principal amount of 4.875% Senior Notes due 2021 and $325.0 million aggregate principal amount of 5.500% Senior Notes due 2024, plus cash and borrowings under our revolving credit agreement.
NOTE 3 – Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges
Throughout the year 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 recorded non-cash impairment charges to reduce the book value of goodwill and other intangible assets. 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 evaluations as of the beginning of the second quarter of 2014. Our testing indicated that the

8



implied $6.2 million fair value of the goodwill was less than the recorded value.  As a result, we recognized a $15.3 million pre-tax 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 $6.6 million in the third quarter and $50.2 million for the year-to-date period in 2014. For 2013, we recorded $5.9 million pre-tax charges for the third quarter and $15.2 million for the year-to-date period. We recorded a $1.0 million non-operating pre-tax charge in the second quarter of 2014 to write off certain broadcasting assets that were donated then and a $0.9 million non-operating pre-tax charge in the first quarter of 2013 to write off certain publishing assets.
NOTE 4 – Goodwill and other intangible assets
The following table displays goodwill, indefinite-lived intangible assets, and amortizable intangible assets at September 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013:
In thousands
Sept. 28, 2014
 
Dec. 29, 2013
 
Gross
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
Gross
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Goodwill
$
3,836,940

 
$

 
$
3,790,472

 
$

Indefinite-lived intangibles:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Television station FCC licenses
1,195,093

 

 
1,091,204

 

Mastheads and trade names
82,427

 

 
82,570

 

Amortizable intangible assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Customer relationships
300,443

 
200,128

 
290,845

 
177,515

Other
242,208

 
46,998

 
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 September 28, 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
35,769

 
4,578

 
33,396

 
73,743

Impairment

 
(15,310
)
 

 
(15,310
)
Foreign currency exchange rate changes

 
(2,871
)
 
(9,094
)
 
(11,965
)
Total
35,769

 
(13,603
)
 
24,302

 
46,468

Balance at Sept. 28, 2014:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Goodwill
2,579,102

 
7,775,083

 
779,830

 
11,134,015

Accumulated impairment losses

 
(7,168,805
)
 
(128,270
)
 
(7,297,075
)
Net balance at Sept. 28, 2014
$
2,579,102

 
$
606,278

 
$
651,560

 
$
3,836,940

On December 23, 2013, we acquired Belo and on July 8, 2014 we acquired six London Broadcasting Company television stations. 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 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 for the Belo acquisition have been made since the initial allocation in the fourth quarter of 2013.

9



NOTE 5 – Long-term debt
Our long-term debt is summarized below:
In thousands
Sept. 28, 2014
 
Dec. 29, 2013
 
 
 
 
Unsecured floating rate term loan due quarterly through August 2018
$
131,100

 
$
154,800

VIE unsecured floating rate term loans due quarterly through December 2018
35,343

 
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 4.875% due September 2021
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

 

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
4,141,440

 
3,744,067

Other (fair market value adjustments and discounts)
(28,833
)
 
(31,167
)
Total long-term debt
4,112,607

 
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
$
4,106,717

 
$
3,707,010

For the first nine months of 2014, our long-term debt increased by $399.7 million primarily reflecting the issuance of $675.0 million of new notes in support of the Classified Ventures, LLC (owner of Cars.com) acquisition, partially offset by the early repayment of the 9.375% notes due in 2017. We redeemed the 9.375% 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 $19.4 million in interest expense for 2014.
On September 8, 2014, we completed the private placement of $350.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 4.875% senior unsecured notes due 2021. The 2021 Notes were priced at 98.531% of face value, resulting in a yield to maturity of 5.125%. Subject to certain exceptions, we may not redeem the 2021 Notes before September 15, 2017. On the same day, we completed the private placement of $325.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 5.50% senior unsecured notes due 2024. The 2024 Notes were priced at 99.038% of face value, resulting in a yield to maturity of 5.625%. Subject to certain exceptions, we may not redeem the 2024 Notes before September 15, 2019. The 2021 and 2024 Notes were issued in a private offering that is exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933. The 2021 and 2024 Notes are guaranteed on a senior basis by our subsidiaries that guarantee our revolving credit facility, term loan and our other outstanding notes. After quarter end, we used the net proceeds from the private placements of the 2021 and 2024 Notes plus cash and borrowings under our revolving credit facility to finance the acquisition of all of the outstanding membership interests of Classified Ventures, LLC previously owned by other parties.
On September 28, 2014, we had unused borrowing capacity of $1.27 billion under our revolving credit agreement that expires in August 2018. Immediately following the Classified Ventures acquisition on October 1, 2014, our unused borrowing capacity under our revolving credit agreement was $617.5 million.

10



NOTE 6 – 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
 
Thirty-nine Weeks Ended
 
Sept. 28, 2014
 
Sept. 29, 2013
 
Sept. 28, 2014
 
Sept. 29, 2013
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Service cost-benefits earned during the period
$
1,358

 
$
1,942

 
$
4,066

 
$
5,823

Interest cost on benefit obligation
42,391

 
35,149

 
127,129

 
105,403

Expected return on plan assets
(58,902
)
 
(49,447
)
 
(176,650
)
 
(148,289
)
Amortization of prior service cost
1,892

 
1,888

 
5,675

 
5,664

Amortization of actuarial loss
11,455

 
15,779

 
34,356

 
47,329

Expense (credit) for company-sponsored retirement plans
$
(1,806
)
 
$
5,311

 
$
(5,424
)
 
$
15,930

For the thirty-nine weeks ended September 28, 2014, we contributed $55.0 million to the GRP, $20.1 million to the G.B. Dealey Retirement Plan (Dealey Plan) and $10.5 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. Based on current funding requirements, we expect no further contributions to the GRP or to the Dealey Plan for the remainder of 2014.
NOTE 7 – 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 pay a stipend to certain Medicare-eligible Gannett retirees. This stipend is accessible through a Healthcare Reimbursement Account and retirees can 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
 
Thirty-nine Weeks Ended
 
Sept. 28, 2014
 
Sept. 29, 2013
 
Sept. 28, 2014
 
Sept. 29, 2013
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Service cost-benefits earned during the period
$
92

 
$
132

 
$
278

 
$
396

Interest cost on net benefit obligation
1,098

 
1,414

 
3,613

 
4,242

Amortization of prior service credit
(3,083
)
 
(2,291
)
 
(8,566
)
 
(6,873
)
Amortization of actuarial loss
213

 
292

 
545

 
877

Net periodic post-retirement benefit credit
$
(1,680
)
 
$
(453
)
 
$
(4,130
)
 
$
(1,358
)

11



NOTE 8 – Income taxes
The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate was approximately $44.8 million as of September 28, 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
5,319

Additions for tax positions of prior years
313

Reductions for tax positions of prior years
(4,314
)
Reductions due to lapse of statutes of limitations
(2,759
)
Balance at Sept. 28, 2014
$
55,883

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 $1.4 million in the third quarter of 2014 and $1.6 million during the third quarter of 2013. We recognized a net benefit from the reversal of interest and penalty expense of $3.8 million during the first nine months of 2014 and $19.0 million during the first nine months of 2013. The net interest and penalty benefits recognized in the third quarter and first nine 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 September 28, 2014, was approximately $7.7 million and as of December 29, 2013, was approximately $11.5 million.
We file income tax returns in the U.S. as well as various state and foreign jurisdictions. The 2011 through 2013 tax years remain subject to IRS examination. The 2010 through 2013 tax years generally remain subject to examination by state authorities, and the 2012 and 2013 tax years are subject to examination in the U.K. Tax years before 2010 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 $6.0 million within the next 12 months primarily due to lapses of statutes of limitations and settlement of ongoing audits in various jurisdictions.

12



NOTE 9 – Supplemental equity information
The following table summarizes equity account activity for the thirty-nine week periods ended September 28, 2014 and September 29, 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
386,142

 
49,351

 
435,493

Redeemable noncontrolling interests (income not available to shareholders)

 
(2,209
)
 
(2,209
)
Other comprehensive income (loss)
30,701

 
(3,851
)
 
26,850

Total comprehensive income
416,843

 
43,291

 
460,134

Dividends declared
(135,513
)
 

 
(135,513
)
Stock-based compensation
25,133

 

 
25,133

Treasury shares acquired
(75,815
)
 

 
(75,815
)
Other activity
11,621

 
(2,518
)
 
9,103

Balance at Sept. 28, 2014
$
2,935,367

 
$
242,468

 
$
3,177,835

 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at Dec. 30, 2012
$
2,350,614

 
$
189,298

 
$
2,539,912

Comprehensive income:
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
297,933

 
42,772

 
340,705

Redeemable noncontrolling interests (income not available to shareholders)

 
(642
)
 
(642
)
Other comprehensive income
27,659

 
802

 
28,461

Total comprehensive income
325,592

 
42,932

 
368,524

Dividends declared
(137,246
)
 

 
(137,246
)
Stock-based compensation
23,130

 

 
23,130

Treasury shares acquired
(78,786
)
 

 
(78,786
)
Other activity
13,576

 
(1,053
)
 
12,523

Balance at Sept. 29, 2013
$
2,496,880

 
$
231,177

 
$
2,728,057

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. Holders of the remaining 26% 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 interests.”

13



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 Jun. 29, 2014
$
(903,180
)
 
$
444,638

 
$
(458,542
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
16,783

 
(28,412
)
 
(11,629
)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
6,817

 

 
6,817

Other comprehensive income (loss)
23,600

 
(28,412
)
 
(4,812
)
Balance at Sept. 28, 2014
$
(879,580
)
 
$
416,226

 
$
(463,354
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at Jun. 30, 2013
$
(1,085,020
)
 
$
385,249

 
$
(699,771
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
(14,016
)
 
30,471

 
16,455

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
9,834

 

 
9,834

Other comprehensive income (loss)
(4,182
)
 
30,471

 
26,289

Balance at Sept. 29, 2013
$
(1,089,202
)
 
$
415,720

 
$
(673,482
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Thirty-nine Weeks:
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at Dec. 29, 2013
$
(921,232
)
 
$
427,177

 
$
(494,055
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
20,845

 
(10,951
)
 
9,894

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
20,807

 

 
20,807

Other comprehensive income (loss)
41,652

 
(10,951
)
 
30,701

Balance at Sept. 28, 2014
$
(879,580
)
 
$
416,226

 
$
(463,354
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at Dec. 30, 2012
$
(1,119,263
)
 
$
418,122

 
$
(701,141
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
561

 
(2,402
)
 
(1,841
)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
29,500

 

 
29,500

Other comprehensive income (loss)
30,061

 
(2,402
)
 
27,659

Balance at Sept. 29, 2013
$
(1,089,202
)
 
$
415,720

 
$
(673,482
)
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
 
Thirty-nine Weeks Ended
 
Sept. 28, 2014
 
Sept. 29, 2013
 
Sept. 28, 2014
 
Sept. 29, 2013
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Amortization of prior service credit
$
(1,191
)
 
$
(403
)
 
$
(2,891
)
 
$
(1,209
)
Amortization of actuarial loss
11,668

 
16,071

 
34,901

 
48,206

Total reclassifications, before tax
10,477

 
15,668

 
32,010

 
46,997

Income tax effect
(3,660
)
 
(5,834
)
 
(11,203
)
 
(17,497
)
Total reclassifications, net of tax
$
6,817

 
$
9,834

 
$
20,807

 
$
29,500


14



NOTE 10 – 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 September 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013:
In thousands
Fair Value Measurements as of Sept. 28, 2014
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Employee compensation related investments
$
31,827

 
$

 
$

 
$
31,827

Sundry investments
35,846

 

 

 
35,846

Total assets
$
67,673

 
$

 
$

 
$
67,673

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Contingent consideration payable
$

 
$

 
$
12,394

 
$
12,394

Total liabilities
$

 
$

 
$
12,394

 
$
12,394


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 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 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 thirty-nine weeks ended September 28, 2014, the contingent consideration decreased by $19.9 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 $4.23 billion at September 28, 2014 and $3.93 billion at December 29, 2013.



15



NOTE 11 – 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 third quarter includes our 46 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
 
Thirty-nine Weeks Ended
 
Sept. 28, 2014
 
Sept. 29, 2013
 
Sept. 28, 2014
 
Sept. 29, 2013
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net Operating Revenues:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Broadcasting
$
416,509

 
$
203,364

 
$
1,197,035

 
$
606,906

Publishing
826,826

 
858,079

 
2,536,254

 
2,633,543

Digital
199,802

 
191,447

 
573,918

 
552,875

Total
$
1,443,137

 
$
1,252,890

 
$
4,307,207

 
$
3,793,324

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating Income (net of depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Broadcasting
$
177,970

 
$
83,810

 
$
503,841

 
$
265,578

Publishing
62,424

 
62,744

 
158,651

 
208,073

Digital
48,342

 
42,050

 
107,861

 
100,931

Corporate
(18,219
)
 
(16,906
)
 
(53,340
)
 
(48,945
)
Total
$
270,517

 
$
171,698

 
$
717,013

 
$
525,637

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Depreciation, amortization and facility consolidation charges and asset impairment charges:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Broadcasting
$
20,307

 
$
7,059

 
$
68,122

 
$
20,968

Publishing
33,040

 
32,183

 
122,754

 
95,834

Digital
9,886

 
8,309

 
27,777

 
26,799

Corporate
4,963

 
4,595

 
14,966

 
13,717

Total
$
68,196

 
$
52,146

 
$
233,619

 
$
157,318


NOTE 12 – Earnings per share
Our earnings per share (basic and diluted) are presented below:
In thousands, except per share data
Thirteen Weeks Ended
 
Thirty-nine Weeks Ended
 
Sept. 28, 2014
 
Sept. 29, 2013
 
Sept. 28, 2014
 
Sept. 29, 2013
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income attributable to Gannett Co., Inc.
$
118,516

 
$
79,748

 
$
386,142

 
$
297,933

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - basic
225,761

 
228,587

 
226,374

 
228,940

Effect of dilutive securities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Restricted stock
2,900

 
3,083

 
2,809

 
2,960

Performance share units
2,424

 
1,500

 
1,958

 
1,698

Stock options
1,012

 
1,268

 
1,016

 
1,126

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - diluted
232,097

 
234,438

 
232,157

 
234,724

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income per share - basic
$
0.52

 
$
0.35

 
$
1.71

 
$
1.30

Net income per share - diluted
$
0.51

 
$
0.34

 
$
1.66

 
$
1.27


16



The diluted earnings per share amounts exclude the effects of approximately 1.7 million stock options outstanding for the third quarter and year-to-date of 2014 and 6.1 million stock options outstanding for the third quarter and year-to-date of 2013, as their inclusion would be anti-dilutive.
NOTE 13 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.
NOTE 14 Subsequent events
On October 1, 2014, we acquired the remaining 73% interest in Classified Ventures LLC, which owns Cars.com, for $1.8 billion. We funded the acquisition from our sale of $350.0 million aggregate principal amount of 4.875% Senior Notes due 2021 and $325.0 million aggregate principal amount of 5.50% Senior Notes due 2024, plus cash and borrowings under our revolving credit agreement.


17



Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Overview
We are a leading international media and marketing solutions company, and one of the largest, most geographically diverse local content providers in the U.S. Through a vast network of broadcast, digital, mobile and print products, we inform and engage more than 110 million people every month.
Our Broadcasting Segment currently includes 46 television stations that we either own or service through shared service agreements. Excluding owner-operators, we are the No. 1 NBC affiliate group; No. 1 CBS affiliate group; and the No. 4 ABC affiliate group. These stations cover almost a third of the U.S. population in markets with approximately 35 million households. We are the largest independent television station group of major network affiliates in the top 25 U.S. markets.
Within our Publishing Segment, we provide content through 82 local U.S. daily publications, including USA TODAY, a multi-platform news and information media company, as well as more than 400 non-daily local publications in 30 states and Guam. USA TODAY ranks No. 1 in the industry in total daily combined print and digital circulation, according to the Alliance for Audited Media. Our subsidiary Newsquest is one of the United Kingdom’s leading regional community news providers, providing its markets with 17 daily paid-for titles, more than 200 weekly print products, magazines and trade publications.
We own and operate a number of stand-alone digital subsidiaries, the results of which are included in our Digital Segment. The largest of these subsidiaries is CareerBuilder, a global leader in human capital solutions, providing everything from labor market intelligence to talent management software and other recruitment solutions, with a presence in more than 60 markets worldwide and a focus on technology solutions and niche sites. CareerBuilder.com is the largest online job site in the U.S., measured both by traffic and revenue.
Recent Developments

In the third quarter, we announced two transformative, highly strategic transactions:

A tax-free separation of our Publishing business
The acquisition of the remaining 73% interest in Classified Ventures for $1.8 billion cash
Separation into two public companies:
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. The planned separation of the Publishing business will be implemented through a tax-free distribution to our shareholders of shares of a new entity formed to hold our Publishing assets. We expect to complete the transaction in 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 to be filed with the SEC in regard to the shares of the entity formed to hold our Publishing business assets, and other customary matters. There can be no assurance regarding the ultimate timing of the proposed transaction or that it will be completed.
Classified Ventures acquisition:
On October 1, 2014, we acquired the remaining 73% interest in Classified Ventures LLC, which owns Cars.com, for $1.8 billion. Cars.com is a leading destination for online car shoppers, offering information from consumers and experts to help buyers formulate opinions on what to buy, where to buy and how much to pay for a car. We funded the acquisition with the net proceeds from our sale of $350 million aggregate principal amount of 4.875% Senior Notes due 2021 and $325 million aggregate principal amount of 5.50% Senior Notes due 2024, plus cash and borrowings under our revolving credit agreement. As part of the acquisition, Classified Ventures entered into new five year affiliation agreements with each of the former newspaper investors at economic terms much more favorable to Cars.com. Before this acquisition, we held a noncontrolling interest in Classified Ventures and accounted for our interest using the equity method. After the acquisition, we will consolidate the results of Classified Ventures. We expect our operating income will increase and equity income will decrease. Our Publishing businesses that sell Cars.com products are operating under new pricing terms following the acquisition which are similar to terms included in the new affiliate agreements we entered into with the former newspaper investors. The new terms will result in lower operating income in our Publishing Segment with corresponding increases in our Digital Segment.

18



Results from Operations
Our reportable segments based on our management and internal reporting structures are Broadcasting, Publishing, and Digital. The primary categories of Broadcasting Segment revenue are: 1) core advertising which includes local and national non-political advertising; 2) political advertising revenues which are seasonal with peaks occurring in even years (e.g., 2014 and 2012) and particularly in the fourth quarter of those years; 3) retransmission revenues representing fees paid by satellite and cable networks and telecommunications companies to carry our television signals on their network; 4) digital revenues generated through advertising on the stations’ web, tablet and mobile products; and 5) other revenues, which consist of payments by advertisers to television stations for other services, such as producing advertising material. We generate Publishing Segment revenue primarily through advertising and subscriptions to our print and digital publications. Our advertising departments sell retail, classified and national advertising across multiple platforms including print, web sites, mobile, tablet and other specialty publications. The largest subsidiary within our Digital Segment is CareerBuilder, which generates revenues both through its own sales force by providing talent and compensation intelligence, human resource related consulting services and recruitment solutions and through sales of employment advertising placed with its affiliated media organizations.
Our largest component of operating expense is payroll and benefits. Other significant operating expenses include the costs of locally produced content and purchased syndicated programming in the Broadcasting Segment, production (raw materials) and distribution costs within the Publishing Segment, and sales and marketing costs within the Digital Segment.
Consolidated Summary
A consolidated summary of our results is presented below:
In thousands, except per share data
Third Quarter
 
2014
 
% of Total
 
2013
 
% of Total
 
Change
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating revenues:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Broadcasting
$
416,509

 
29
%
 
$
203,364

 
16
%
 
105
%
Publishing
826,826

 
57
%
 
858,079

 
68
%
 
(4
%)
Digital
199,802

 
14
%
 
191,447

 
16
%
 
4
%
Total operating revenues
$
1,443,137

 
100
%
 
$
1,252,890

 
100
%
 
15
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating expenses
$
1,172,620

 
 
 
$
1,081,192

 
 
 
8
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


Broadcasting
$
177,970

 
66
%
 
$
83,810

 
49
%
 
112
%
Publishing
62,424

 
23
%
 
62,744

 
37
%
 
(1
%)
Digital
48,342

 
18
%
 
42,050

 
24
%
 
15
%
Corporate
(18,219
)
 
(7
%)
 
(16,906
)
 
(10
%)
 
8
%
Total operating income
270,517

 
100
%
 
171,698

 
100
%
 
58
%
Non-operating expense (income)
81,625

 
 
 
47,497

 
 
 
72
%
Provision for income taxes
48,900

 
 
 
26,700

 
 
 
83
%
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
21,476

 
 
 
17,753

 
 
 
21
%
Net income attributable to Gannett Co., Inc.
$
118,516

 
 
 
$
79,748

 
 
 
49
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income per share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
$
0.52

 
 
 
$
0.35

 
 
 
49
%
Diluted
$
0.51

 
 
 
$
0.34

 
 
 
50
%
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
Basic
225,761

 
 
 
228,587

 
 
 
(1
%)
Diluted
232,097

 
 
 
234,438

 
 
 
(1
%)


19



In thousands, except per share data
Year-to-Date
 
2014
 
% of Total
 
2013
 
% of Total
 
Change
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating revenues:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Broadcasting
$
1,197,035

 
28
%
 
$
606,906

 
16
%
 
97
%
Publishing
2,536,254

 
59
%
 
2,633,543

 
69
%
 
(4
%)
Digital
573,918

 
13
%
 
552,875

 
15
%
 
4
%
Total operating revenues
$
4,307,207

 
100
%
 
$
3,793,324

 
100
%
 
14
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating expenses
$
3,590,194

 
 
 
$
3,267,687

 
 
 
10
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Broadcasting
$
503,841

 
70
%
 
$
265,578

 
51
%
 
90
%
Publishing
158,651

 
22
%
 
208,073

 
40
%
 
(24
%)
Digital
107,861

 
15
%
 
100,931

 
19
%
 
7
%
Corporate
(53,340
)
 
(7
%)
 
(48,945
)
 
(10
%)
 
9
%
Total operating income
717,013

 
100
%
 
525,637

 
100
%
 
36
%
Non-operating expense (income)
74,120

 
 
 
113,232

 
 
 
(35
%)
Provision for income taxes
207,400

 
 
 
71,700

 
 
 
***

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
49,351

 
 
 
42,772

 
 
 
15
%
Net income attributable to Gannett Co., Inc.
$
386,142

 
 
 
$
297,933

 
 
 
30
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income per share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
$
1.71

 
 
 
$
1.30

 
 
 
32
%
Diluted
$
1.66

 
 
 
$
1.27

 
 
 
31
%
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
Basic
226,374

 
 
 
228,940

 
 
 
(1
%)
Diluted
232,157

 
 
 
234,724

 
 
 
(1
%)

A number of factors impacted 2014 revenue and expense comparisons. The largest of these drivers was the inclusion of the television stations acquired or serviced as a result of the Belo and London Broadcasting Company transactions as well as the continued growth of retransmission revenues. Strong political advertising spending, particularly in the third quarter, helped to drive record revenues in our broadcasting operations. We continued to stabilize our publishing operations and manage the industry-wide softening of revenues through a number of initiatives including the All Access Content Subscription Model and the inclusion of USA TODAY content editions within our local domestic publishing operations. Coupled with our efficiency initiatives, including consolidating printing and distribution platforms, global sourcing and real estate optimization, we are managing expenses to align with continuing industry-wide challenges for our Publishing Segment. Our Digital Segment, led by CareerBuilder, provided solid revenue growth as CareerBuilder continues to position itself for expansion in the software-as-a-service market for talent management solutions. Growth of digital revenues within our Publishing and Broadcasting Segments reflects the success of our expansion of digital marketing services, particularly with search and social products. As a result of these factors, the mix of our revenues and expenses is shifting, with a significantly higher share of our revenues being generated by higher growth and higher margin broadcasting and digital operations.
Our operating revenues were $1.44 billion in the third quarter of 2014, an increase of 15% from $1.25 billion in the same period last year. For the first nine months of 2014, operating revenues increased 14% to $4.31 billion from $3.79 billion in 2013. The increase in both periods was driven primarily by a record level of Broadcasting Segment revenues which increased 105% in the third quarter of 2014 and 97% in the first nine months of 2014, reflecting revenues from the acquisitions of Belo and the London Broadcasting Company television stations, as well as substantially higher retransmission and political advertising revenues. On a pro forma basis, had we owned and/or serviced the Belo and London Broadcasting Company television stations in the same period last year and excluding Captivate and the impact of the sale of a print business and Apartments.com, total operating revenue would have increased 4% in the third quarter and 3% in the first nine months of 2014. Broadcasting Segment revenues on a pro forma basis increased 19% in the third quarter of 2014 and 17% year-to-date. A separate discussion of pro forma information begins on page 32. Publishing Segment revenues were down 4% in both the third

20



quarter of 2014 and the year-to-date periods, reflecting continued pressure on advertising demand, partially offset by higher revenue associated with digital advertising and marketing solutions. On a pro forma basis, Publishing Segment revenues were down 2% in the third quarter of 2014 and down 3% year-to-date. Digital Segment revenues increased 4% in the third quarter of 2014, driven by continued growth at CareerBuilder.
Operating expenses increased 8% for the third quarter and 10% for the year-to-date period. Broadcasting Segment operating expenses increased 100% in the third quarter and 103% in the first nine months due to the impact of the acquisitions of Belo and the London Broadcasting Company television stations. On a pro forma basis, company-wide operating expenses were relatively unchanged in both the third quarter and the first nine months of 2014 compared to the same periods in 2013. Broadcasting Segment expenses on a pro forma basis were up 4% in both the third quarter and year-to-date 2014 compared to the same periods last year. Publishing Segment operating expenses were down 4% in the third quarter and 2% in the year-to-date period due to ongoing cost control and efficiency efforts as well as lower volumes. On a pro forma basis, Publishing Segment operating expenses were down 2% in both the third quarter of 2014 and the year-to-date periods. Digital Segment operating expenses increased 1% in the third quarter and 3% year-to-date reflecting incremental expenses incurred at CareerBuilder related to its Broadbean acquisition and also its continued investments in sales staff expansion as well as technology support for its human capital software solutions. A separate discussion of operating expenses excluding special items (non-GAAP basis) begins on page 26.
Non-operating expense increased from $47.5 million for the third quarter of 2013 and $113.2 million for the year-to-date period in 2013 to $81.6 million in the third quarter of 2014 and $74.1 million for the year-to-date period, driven primarily by higher interest expense. Equity income in unconsolidated investees totaled $1.8 million in the third quarter of 2014 and $166.8 million for the year-to-date period, reflecting primarily the gain in the second quarter from the sale of Apartments.com by Classified Ventures, an equity method investee. Interest expense was $65.9 million in the third quarter and $199.7 million for the year-to-date period in 2014 compared to $41.6 million and $113.2 million in the same periods last year, reflecting primarily the issuance of debt to fund the Belo acquisition and the Classified Ventures (which owns Cars.com) acquisition, partially offset by a lower average interest rate. With the successful completion of our private placement offering of $675.0 million senior notes related to acquiring Cars.com, the total average outstanding debt was $3.58 billion for the third quarter of 2014, compared to $1.81 billion last year. The weighted average interest rate on total outstanding debt was 6.89% for the third quarter of 2014 compared to 7.92% last year. For the year-to-date period total average outstanding debt was $3.56 billion compared to $1.66 billion last year. The weighted average interest rate on total outstanding debt was 6.98% year-to-date in 2014 compared to 8.02% in the same period last year.
Our reported effective income tax rate was 29.2% for the third quarter of 2014, compared to 25.1% for the third quarter of 2013. The tax rate for the third quarter in 2014 was higher than the comparable rate in 2013 due to non-operating special items that are not deductible for tax purposes. The reported effective income tax rate was 34.9% for the first nine months of 2014 compared to 19.4% for the same period last year. These rates also reflect special items. The year-to-date 2014 rate was negatively impacted by a $18.2 million tax charge recognized on the sale of KMOV-TV in St. Louis, MO to Meredith Corporation in February 2014. The year-to-date 2013 rate was positively impacted by a net tax benefit of $27.8 million related to resolving a multi-year federal audit settlement and the release of a significant reserve for an uncertain state tax position. A separate discussion of effective income tax rates excluding special items (non-GAAP basis) appears on page 32.
The weighted average number of diluted shares outstanding for the third quarter of 2014 decreased by 2.3 million shares from 2013. For the year-to-date period, the weighted average number of diluted shares outstanding in 2014 decreased by 2.6 million shares. These declines reflect shares repurchased in 2013 and the first half of 2014, partially offset by increases in stock option exercises. See Part II, Item 2 for information on share repurchases.

21



Segment Results
The following is a discussion of our reported operating segment results for the third quarter and year-to-date period of 2014. Unless otherwise noted, all comparisons are to the comparable prior year period.
Broadcasting Segment Results
A summary of our Broadcasting Segment results is presented below:
In thousands
Third Quarter
 
Year-to-Date
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating revenues
$
416,509

 
$
203,364

 
105
%
 
$
1,197,035

 
$
606,906

 
97
%
Operating expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating expenses, exclusive of depreciation
218,232

 
112,495

 
94
%
 
625,072

 
320,360

 
95
%
Depreciation
12,629

 
6,747

 
87
%
 
35,953

 
20,294

 
77
%
Amortization
6,448

 
173

 
***

 
22,554

 
535

 
***

Transformation costs
1,230

 
139

 
***

 
9,615

 
139

 
***

Total operating expenses
238,539

 
119,554

 
100
%
 
693,194

 
341,328

 
103
%
Operating income
$
177,970

 
$
83,810

 
112
%
 
$
503,841

 
$
265,578

 
90
%
Broadcasting Segment revenues are grouped into five categories: Core (Local and National), Political, Retransmission, Digital and Other. The following table summarizes the year-over-year changes in these select revenue categories.
In thousands
Third Quarter
 
Year-to-Date
 
2014
 
Percentage Change From 2013
 
2014
 
Percentage Change From 2013
 
Reported
 
Reported
 
Pro Forma(a)
 
Reported
 
Reported
 
Pro Forma(a)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Core (Local & National)
$
250,647

 
75
%
 
(3
%)
 
$
769,570

 
79
%
 
%
Political
39,995

 
***

 
***

 
66,539

 
***

 
***

Retransmission (b)
91,903

 
154
%
 
61
%
 
268,025

 
145
%
 
64
%
Digital
26,001

 
171
%
 
24
%
 
70,662

 
166
%
 
21
%
Other
7,963

 
(25
%)
 
(7
%)
 
22,239

 
(33
%)
 
(1
%)
Total
$
416,509

 
105
%
 
19
%
 
$
1,197,035

 
97
%
 
17
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(a) The pro forma figures are presented as if the acquisition of Belo Corp. and the six acquired London Broadcasting Company television stations as well as the Captivate disposition had occurred at the beginning of 2013.
(b) Reverse compensation to network affiliates is included as part of programming costs and therefore is excluded from this line.
Reported Broadcasting Segment revenues in the third quarter of 2014 increased 105% to $416.5 million, a record, driven primarily by the acquisitions of Belo and the London Broadcasting Company television stations, as well as substantially higher retransmission revenue and political advertising. Core advertising revenue, which consists of Local and National non-political advertising, increased 75% to $250.6 million in the third quarter of 2014 mainly due to television station acquisitions. Political advertising reached $40.0 million compared to $3.6 million in the third quarter a year ago, driven by maximizing the benefit of a strong political footprint. Retransmission revenue increased 154% to $91.9 million in the quarter resulting from rate increases and the expansion of our Broadcasting Segment portfolio. Digital revenue increased 171% to $26.0 million in the third quarter of 2014, reflecting our expanded portfolio and continued growth from digital marketing services products. Other revenue declined 25% to $8.0 million, reflecting the absence of Captivate revenue that was reported in the third quarter of 2013. On a pro forma basis, Broadcasting Segment revenues increased 19% driven by robust retransmission revenues and significantly higher political advertising.
For the year-to-date period, Broadcasting Segment revenues increased 97% to $1.20 billion driven primarily by the acquisitions, as well as substantially higher political and retransmission revenues.
Broadcasting Segment operating expenses for the third quarter of 2014 increased 100% to $238.5 million primarily due to the acquisitions as well as higher investments in digital initiatives and reverse network compensation. On a pro forma basis, Broadcasting Segment operating expenses increased 4% in the third quarter of 2014 and increased 4% year-to-date. Operating

22



income in the third quarter of 2014 increased 112% to $178.0 million compared to last year and increased 47% on a pro forma basis. Operating income in the first nine months of 2014 increased 90% to $503.8 million compared to last year and increased 40% on a pro forma basis.
Publishing Segment Results
A summary of our Publishing Segment results is presented below:
In thousands
Third Quarter
 
Year-to-Date
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating revenues
$
826,826

 
$
858,079

 
(4
%)
 
$
2,536,254

 
$
2,633,543

 
(4
%)
Operating expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating expenses, exclusive of depreciation
731,362

 
763,152

 
(4
%)
 
2,254,849

 
2,329,636

 
(3
%)
Depreciation
23,898

 
22,300

 
7
%
 
70,634

 
68,301

 
3
%
Amortization
3,751

 
4,142

 
(9
%)
 
11,519

 
12,509

 
(8
%)
Facility consolidation and asset impairment charges
5,391

 
5,741

 
(6
%)
 
40,601

 
15,024

 
***

Total operating expenses
764,402

 
795,335

 
(4
%)
 
2,377,603

 
2,425,470

 
(2
%)
Operating income
$
62,424

 
$
62,744

 
(1
%)
 
$
158,651

 
$
208,073

 
(24
%)
Publishing Segment revenues were generated principally from advertising and circulation sales. Advertising sales accounted for 60% of total Publishing Segment revenues for the third quarter of 2014 and the first nine months of 2014. Circulation sales accounted for 33% of total Publishing Segment revenues for the third quarter of 2014 and the first nine months of 2014. Advertising revenues include amounts generated from print advertising as well as digital advertising on publishing-related Internet websites, mobile and tablet applications. The table below presents the main components of Publishing Segment revenues:
In thousands
Third Quarter
 
Year-to-Date
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Advertising
$
494,899

 
$
520,189

 
(5
%)
 
$
1,526,382

 
$
1,609,164

 
(5
%)
Circulation
276,829

 
274,999

 
1
%
 
836,756

 
840,626

 
%
All other
55,098

 
62,891

 
(12
%)
 
173,116

 
183,753

 
(6
%)
Total Publishing Segment revenues
$
826,826

 
$
858,079

 
(4
%)
 
$
2,536,254

 
$
2,633,543

 
(4
%)
Publishing Segment revenues were down 4% both in the third quarter and year-to-date, reflecting continued pressure on advertising demand, partially offset by higher revenue associated with digital advertising and marketing solutions. On a pro forma basis, Publishing Segment revenues were down 2% in the third quarter of 2014 and down 3% year-to-date.
The table below presents the principal categories of advertising revenues for the Publishing Segment:
In thousands
Third Quarter
 
Year-to-Date
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Retail
$
258,063

 
$
269,516

 
(4
%)
 
$
793,614

 
$
831,553

 
(5
%)
National
73,705

 
81,489

 
(10
%)
 
236,301

 
261,315

 
(10
%)
Classified
163,131

 
169,184

 
(4
%)
 
496,467

 
516,296

 
(4
%)
Total Publishing Segment advertising revenues
$
494,899

 
$
520,189

 
(5
%)
 
$
1,526,382

 
$
1,609,164

 
(5
%)

23



The percentage changes within the advertising revenue categories for U.S. Publishing, Newsquest and the total Publishing Segment, presented as if the Apartments.com sale occurred at the beginning of 2013, are as follows:
 
Third Quarter
 
Year-to-Date
 
U.S. Publishing
 
Newsquest (in pounds)


Total Publishing Segment
 
U.S. Publishing
 
Newsquest (in pounds)

Total Publishing Segment
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Retail
(5
%)
 
(2
%)
 
(4
%)
 
(6
%)
 
(2
%)
 
(5
%)
National
(11
%)
 
(3
%)
 
(10
%)
 
(11
%)
 
(4
%)
 
(10
%)
Classified
(4
%)
 
(2
%)
 
(1
%)
 
(5
%)
 
(3
%)
 
(2
%)
Total Publishing Segment advertising revenues
(6
%)
 
(2
%)
 
(4
%)
 
(6
%)
 
(3
%)
 
(5
%)
Total advertising comparisons year over year in the Publishing Segment were lower both in the third quarter and year-to-date due to ongoing pressure on advertising demand, partially offset by higher revenue associated with digital advertising and marketing solutions. Pro forma advertising revenues were 4% lower. On the same basis, national and classified comparisons in the third quarter were better than second quarter year-over-year comparisons. Advertising revenue at Newsquest declined 2%, in pounds, as national advertising was 3% lower and retail advertising was 2% lower. The average exchange rate used to translate U.K. publishing results from the British pound to U.S. dollars increased 8% for the third quarter of 2014 and for the year-to-date period.
Overall percentage changes within the classified revenue categories for U.S. Publishing, Newsquest, and the total Publishing Segment, presented as if the Apartments.com sale occurred at the beginning of 2013, are as follows:
 
Third Quarter
 
Year-to-Date
 
U.S. Publishing
 
Newsquest (in pounds)


Total Publishing Segment
 
U.S. Publishing
 
Newsquest (in pounds)

Total Publishing Segment
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Automotive
(1
%)
 
(6
%)
 
(1
%)
 
(2
%)
 
(6
%)
 
(2
%)
Employment
(2
%)
 
9
%
 
4
%
 
(6
%)
 
8
%
 
1
%
Real Estate
(5
%)
 
(8
%)
 
(3
%)
 
(5
%)
 
(9
%)
 
(3
%)
Legal
(5
%)
 
%
 
(5
%)
 
(5
%)
 
%
 
(5
%)
Other
(7
%)
 
(6
%)
 
(4
%)
 
(8
%)
 
(6
%)
 
(5
%)
Total Publishing Segment classified revenue
(4
%)
 
(2
%)
 
(1
%)
 
(5
%)
 
(3
%)
 
(2
%)
Total circulation revenues increased 1% to $276.8 million in the third quarter of 2014 and were relatively unchanged to $836.8 million year-to-date compared to the same periods last year. Circulation revenue for our local domestic publishing business was 1% higher in the third quarter of 2014, the first quarterly increase in 2014, reflecting ongoing strength of the All Access Subscription Model as well as strategic home delivery price increases at our local domestic publishing sites. Circulation revenue at USA TODAY was 2% lower in the third quarter of 2014 due to planned volume losses. In the U.K., circulation revenues in local currency were 5% lower in the third quarter of 2014 reflecting the cycling of cover price increases last year.
Commercial printing and other publishing revenue was down 12% for the quarter and down 6% year-to-date reflecting the sale of a print business and a decrease in U.K. commercial printing revenues.
Digital revenues associated with the Publishing Segment increased 7% for the third quarter. Digital revenues at USA TODAY and its associated businesses increased 17%, fueled by increased user engagement across all digital platforms. Digital revenues for our local domestic publishing business increased 4% for the third quarter. Digital revenues in the U.K. were 20% higher for the quarter in local currency. These increases reflect the impact of our strategic successes in providing digital advertising and marketing solutions.
For the year-to-date period, digital revenues associated with the Publishing Segment increased 7%. Digital revenues at USA TODAY and its associated businesses increased 22% year-to-date driven by desktop and other mobile applications. Digital revenues for our local domestic publishing business increased 4% year-to-date. Digital revenues in the U.K. were 21% higher for the year-to-date period in local currency.

24



Publishing Segment operating expenses decreased 4% in the quarter to $764.4 million compared to $795.3 million last year. This decrease was primarily due to continued cost efficiency efforts. Newsprint expense was 7% lower in the quarter and year-to-date due primarily to declines in consumption. Drivers of year-to-date comparisons were similar to quarterly comparisons. Publishing Segment operating expenses decreased 2% for the year-to-date period to $2.38 billion from $2.43 billion last year.
Publishing Segment operating income was $62.4 million in the quarter compared to $62.7 million last year, a decrease of less than 1%. For the year-to-date period, Publishing Segment operating income was $158.7 million compared to $208.1 million last year. Publishing Segment operating income for the quarter and year-to-date periods for both 2014 and 2013 were impacted by special items. Financial results and comparisons excluding the impact of these special items are discussed in the “Results from Operations - Non-GAAP and Pro Forma Information” below.
Digital Segment Results
The Digital Segment includes results for stand-alone digital subsidiaries including CareerBuilder, PointRoll, and Shoplocal. The largest of these subsidiaries, CareerBuilder has been expanding both through internal growth and acquisitions. On April 1, 2014, CareerBuilder announced the acquisition of Broadbean, a leader in online recruitment software that enables job distribution, candidate sourcing and big data analytics for employers. The Broadbean acquisition, when combined with the addition of Economic Modeling Specialists Intl. in 2012, represents the next step in CareerBuilder’s transformation, positioning it as a leading company in the rapidly growing software-as-a-service market for talent management solutions. Many of our other digital offerings are tightly integrated within our existing publishing or broadcasting offerings, and therefore the results of these integrated digital offerings are reported within the operating results of the Publishing and Broadcasting Segments.
A summary of our Digital Segment results is presented below:
In thousands
Third Quarter
 
Year-to-Date
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating revenues
$
199,802

 
$
191,447

 
4
%
 
$
573,918

 
$
552,875

 
4
%
Operating expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating expenses, exclusive of depreciation
141,574

 
141,088

 
%
 
438,280

 
425,145

 
3
%
Depreciation
5,191

 
4,553

 
14
%
 
14,742

 
13,276

 
11
%
Amortization
4,695

 
3,756

 
25
%
 
13,035

 
13,523

 
(4
%)
Total operating expenses
151,460

 
149,397

 
1
%
 
466,057

 
451,944

 
3
%
Operating income
$
48,342

 
$
42,050

 
15
%
 
$
107,861

 
$
100,931

 
7
%
Digital Segment operating revenues increased 4% to $199.8 million in the third quarter of 2014 compared to $191.4 million in 2013. CareerBuilder revenues were up 7% for the quarter and 6% year-to-date, driven by expanding sales of human capital software solutions as well as their recent acquisition of Broadbean. Digital Segment revenues benefited from continued growth at Shoplocal driven by search work for major advertisers.
Digital Segment operating expenses increased 1% to $151.5 million in the third quarter of 2014 and 3% year-to-date, reflecting investments by CareerBuilder to grow its market-leading sales presence and other digital investments including technology development in human capital software solutions. As a result, Digital Segment operating income for the quarter was $48.3 million, an increase of 15% over the comparable period in 2013. Digital Segment operating income for the year-to-date period was $107.9 million, an increase of 7% over the comparable 2013 period.
Corporate Expense
Corporate expense in the third quarter of 2014 increased 8% to $18.2 million. Corporate expense for the year-to-date period increased 9% to $53.3 million compared to $48.9 million last year, driven by our investment in strategic initiatives and a slight increase in stock-based compensation.

25



Results from Operations - Non-GAAP and Pro Forma Information
Presentation of Non-GAAP information
We use non-GAAP financial performance and liquidity measures to supplement the financial information presented on a GAAP basis. These non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered in isolation from or as a substitute for the related GAAP measures, and should be read together with financial information presented on a GAAP basis.
We discuss in this report non-GAAP financial performance measures that exclude from our reported GAAP results the impact of special items consisting of workforce restructuring charges, transformation costs, non-cash asset impairment charges, certain gains and expenses recognized in non-operating categories and certain credits and charges to our income tax provision.
We believe that such expenses, charges and credits are not indicative of normal, ongoing operations and their inclusion in results makes for more difficult comparisons between years and with peer group companies. Workforce restructuring and transformation expenses primarily relate to incremental expenses we have incurred to consolidate or outsource production processes and centralize other functions. Workforce restructuring expenses include payroll and related benefit costs as well as charges related to our partial withdrawal from certain multi-employer pension plans. Transformation costs include incremental expenses incurred by us to execute on our transformation and growth plan, including those related to our recently completed acquisitions of Belo and London Broadcasting Company television stations and incremental expenses associated with optimizing our real estate portfolio. Transformation costs also include amortization of acquired advertising contracts. In connection with the Belo acquisition, we recognized intangible assets for Belo’s advertising contracts. Unlike most intangible assets which have useful lives of several years, these specific intangible assets had a benefit period and related amortization period that was less than three months from the date of acquisition. Asset impairment charges reflect non-cash charges to reduce the book value of certain intangible assets to their respective fair value, as our projections for the business underlying the related asset had declined.
In the second quarter of 2014, special items were recorded in other non-operating items primarily related to the pre-tax gain of $148 million related to the Classified Ventures sale of its Apartments.com business. This gain is reflected in the line equity income in unconsolidated investees, net. Other non-operating items for 2014 included special charges primarily related to (1) acquiring six London Broadcasting Company television stations and the remaining outstanding shares of Classified Ventures LLC, (2) expenses related to the planned spin-off of our publishing operation, and (3) the early retirement of our 9.375% notes due in 2017. The non-operating charges included a call premium paid as well as the write off of unamortized debt issuance costs and original issue discount. Other non-operating items in 2013 included Belo acquisition related expenses, a non-cash charge related to a sale of interests in a business and a currency loss related to the weakening of the British pound associated with the downgrade of the U.K. sovereign credit rating. The income tax provision for 2014 year-to-date reflects a charge related to the sale of our interest in television station KMOV‑TV in St. Louis, MO, in February 2014. The income tax provision for 2013 year-to-date included special credits related to reserve releases as a result of federal exam resolution.
We discuss Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP financial performance measure that we believe offers a useful view of our overall business operations. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income attributable to Gannett before (1) net income attributable to noncontrolling interests, (2) income taxes, (3) interest expense, (4) equity income, (5) other non-operating items, (6) workforce restructuring, (7) transformation costs, (8) asset impairment charges, (9) depreciation and (10) amortization. When Adjusted EBITDA is discussed in reference to performance on a consolidated basis, the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure is Net income attributable to Gannett.
We use non-GAAP financial performance measures for purposes of evaluating business unit and consolidated company performance. Therefore, we believe that each of the non-GAAP measures presented provides useful information to investors by allowing them to view our businesses through the eyes of our management and Board of Directors, facilitating comparison of results across historical periods, and providing a focus on the underlying ongoing operating performance of our businesses. Many of our peer group companies present similar non-GAAP measures to better facilitate industry comparisons.

26



Discussion of special charges and credits affecting reported results

Our results for 2014 included the following items we consider special and not indicative of our normal ongoing operations:

Costs associated with workforce restructuring;
Transformation costs;
Non-cash asset impairment charges;
Equity income gain on the sale of Apartments.com by Classified Ventures;
Other non-operating item charges; and
Special tax gain and charge.
Results for 2013 included the following special items:
Costs associated with workforce restructuring;
Transformation costs;
Other non-operating item charges; and
Special tax benefit.

Consolidated Summary - Non-GAAP
The following is a discussion of our as adjusted non-GAAP financial results. All as adjusted (non-GAAP basis) measures are labeled as such or “adjusted.”
Adjusted operating results were as follows:
In thousands, except share data
Third Quarter
 
Year-to-Date
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating revenues
$
1,443,137

 
$
1,252,890

 
15
%
 
$
4,307,207

 
$
3,793,324

 
14
%
Adjusted operating expenses
1,162,995

 
1,066,066

 
9
%
 
3,506,112

 
3,216,185

 
9
%
Adjusted operating income
$
280,142

 
$
186,824

 
50
%
 
$
801,095

 
$
577,139

 
39
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Adjusted net income attributable to Gannett Co., Inc.
$
136,319

 
$
99,799

 
37
%
 
$
399,392

 
$
320,967

 
24
%
Adjusted diluted earnings per share
$
0.59

 
$
0.43

 
37
%
 
$
1.72

 
$
1.37

 
26
%
Operating revenues totaled $1.44 billion in the third quarter of 2014, up 15% from $1.25 billion in the third quarter of 2013. Results were driven by a 105% increase in Broadcasting Segment revenue and a 4% increase in Digital Segment revenue. On a pro forma basis, had we owned the Belo and London Broadcasting Company television stations in the same period last year and excluding results for Captivate and the impact of the sale of a print business and Apartments.com, total operating revenue would have increased 4%.
On a year-to-date basis, total operating revenues increased 14% to $4.31 billion from $3.79 billion in the same period last year. We achieved a 97% increase in Broadcasting Segment revenue and a 4% increase in Digital Segment revenue. On a pro forma basis, total operating revenue would have increased 3%.
Broadcasting Segment revenues more than doubled year over year as a result of the acquisitions of Belo and London Broadcasting Company television stations, higher advertising demand related to political spending, and substantial increases in retransmission revenue. On a pro forma basis, Broadcasting Segment revenues increased 19% for the quarter and 17% year-to-date, reflecting substantially higher retransmission revenue, strong political advertising and digital marketing services revenues.

27



A summary of the impact of special items on our operating expenses is presented below:
In thousands
Third Quarter
 
Year-to-Date
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating expenses (GAAP basis)
$
1,172,620

 
$
1,081,192

 
8
%
 
$
3,590,194

 
$
3,267,687

 
10
%
Remove special items:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Workforce restructuring
(3,004
)
 
(9,246
)
 
(68
%)
 
(29,386
)
 
(36,339
)
 
(19
%)
Transformation costs
(6,621
)
 
(5,880
)
 
13
%
 
(38,509
)
 
(15,163
)
 
***

Asset impairment charges

 

 
***

 
(16,187
)
 

 
***

As adjusted (non-GAAP basis)
$
1,162,995

 
$
1,066,066

 
9
%
 
$
3,506,112

 
$
3,216,185

 
9
%
Adjusted operating expenses increased 9% for both the third quarter of 2014 and year-to-date period primarily due to acquiring Belo and television stations owned by London Broadcasting Company. On a pro forma basis, adjusted operating expenses were relatively unchanged in both the third quarter and year-to-date periods. Lower operating expenses in the Publishing Segment reflecting reduced circulation volumes and the impact of cost control and efficiency efforts were partially offset by higher expenses in the Broadcasting and Digital Segments associated with growth of revenues.
A summary of the impact of special items on operating income is presented below:
In thousands
Third Quarter
 
Year-to-Date
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income (GAAP basis)
$
270,517

 
$
171,698

 
58
%
 
$
717,013

 
$
525,637

 
36
%
Remove special items:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Workforce restructuring
3,004

 
9,246

 
(68
%)
 
29,386

 
36,339

 
(19
%)
Transformation costs
6,621

 
5,880

 
13
%
 
38,509

 
15,163

 
***

Asset impairment charges

 

 
***

 
16,187

 

 
***

As adjusted (non-GAAP basis)
$
280,142

 
$
186,824

 
50
%
 
$
801,095

 
$
577,139

 
39
%
Adjusted operating income increased 50% for the third quarter of 2014 and was up 39% for the year-to-date period, reflecting higher Broadcasting and Digital Segment adjusted operating income, partially offset by lower Publishing Segment adjusted operating income. Adjusted Broadcasting Segment operating income increased 112% to $179.3 million for the quarter and 95% to $520.3 million for the year-to-date period due primarily to the acquisitions of Belo and London Broadcasting Company television stations, substantially higher retransmission and strong political advertising revenues. The 2014 year-to-date period benefited from $41.3 million in advertising associated with the Winter Olympic Games as well as increases in retransmission and political revenue. Adjusted Digital Segment operating income was $48.3 million for the quarter and $107.9 million for the year-to-date period as solid revenue growth at CareerBuilder was partially offset by incremental expenses incurred at CareerBuilder related to its Broadbean acquisition and its continued investments in its sales staff expansion as well as technology support for its human capital software solutions. Adjusted Publishing Segment operating income was down 8% for the quarter and down 13% for the year-to-date period reflecting continued pressure on advertising demand, partially offset by higher revenue associated with digital advertising and marketing solutions and continued cost efficiency efforts.

28



A summary of the impact of special items on non-operating income (expense), net income attributable to Gannett Co., Inc. and diluted earnings per share is presented below:
In thousands, except share data
Third Quarter
 
Year-to-Date
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total non-operating income (expense) (GAAP basis)
$
(81,625
)
 
$
(47,497
)
 
72
%
 
$
(74,120
)
 
$
(113,232
)
 
(35
%)
Remove special items:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Non-operating items (a)
20,478

 
21,025

 
(3
%)
 
(102,632
)
 
34,232

 
***

As adjusted (non-GAAP basis)
$
(61,147
)
 
$
(26,472
)
 
***

 
$
(176,752
)
 
$
(79,000
)
 
***

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income attributable to Gannett Co., Inc. (GAAP basis)
$
118,516

 
$
79,748

 
49
%
 
$
386,142

 
$
297,933

 
30
%
Remove special items (net of tax):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Workforce restructuring
2,004

 
5,646

 
(65
%)
 
18,586

 
22,039

 
(16
%)
Transformation costs
5,221

 
3,580

 
46
%
 
24,009

 
9,163

 
***

Asset impairment charges

 

 
***

 
15,387

 

 
***

Non-operating items (a)
16,178

 
10,825

 
49
%
 
(62,932
)
 
19,632

 
***

Special tax charges (benefits)
(5,600
)
 

 
***

 
18,200

 
(27,800
)
 
***

As adjusted (non-GAAP basis)
$
136,319

 
$
99,799

 
37
%
 
$
399,392

 
$
320,967

 
24
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Diluted earnings per share (GAAP basis)
$
0.51

 
$
0.34

 
50
%
 
$
1.66

 
$
1.27

 
31
%
Remove special items (net of tax):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Workforce restructuring
0.01

 
0.02

 
(50
%)
 
0.08

 
0.09

 
(11
%)
Transformation costs
0.02

 
0.02

 
%
 
0.10

 
0.04

 
***

Asset impairment charges

 

 
***

 
0.07

 

 
***

Non-operating items (a)
0.07

 
0.05

 
40
%
 
(0.27
)
 
0.08

 
***

Special tax charges (benefits)
(0.02
)
 

 
***

 
0.08

 
(0.12
)
 
***

As adjusted (non-GAAP basis) (b)
$
0.59

 
$
0.43

 
37
%
 
$
1.72

 
$
1.37

 
26
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(a)  2014 year-to-date period includes an equity income gain on the sale of Apartments.com by Classified Ventures ($148 million pre-tax gain, $89 million after-tax gain or $0.38 per diluted share).
(b)  Total per share amount may not sum due to rounding.
As adjusted net income attributable to Gannett increased 37% for the quarter and 24% for the year-to-date period. As adjusted diluted earnings per share increased 37% for the third quarter and 26% for the year-to-date period. These increases were due to higher Broadcasting and Digital Segment adjusted operating income partially offset by lower Publishing Segment adjusted operating income.

29



Reconciliations of Adjusted EBITDA to net income presented in accordance with GAAP on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income are presented below:
In thousands
Third Quarter
 
Year-to-Date
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income attributable to Gannett Co., Inc. (GAAP basis)
$
118,516

 
$
79,748

 
49
%
 
$
386,142

 
$
297,933

 
30
%
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
21,476

 
17,753

 
21
%
 
49,351

 
42,772

 
15
%
Provision for income taxes
48,900

 
26,700

 
83
%
 
207,400

 
71,700

 
***

Interest expense
65,931

 
41,628

 
58
%
 
199,727

 
113,207

 
76
%
Equity income in unconsolidated investees, net
(1,756
)
 
(11,711
)
 
(85
%)
 
(166,787
)
 
(28,929
)
 
***

Other non-operating items
17,450

 
17,580

 
(1
%)
 
41,180

 
28,954

 
42
%
Operating income (GAAP basis)
270,517

 
171,698

 
58
%
 
717,013

 
525,637

 
36
%
Workforce restructuring
3,004

 
9,246

 
(68
%)
 
29,386

 
36,339

 
(19
%)
Transformation costs
6,621

 
5,880

 
13
%
 
38,509

 
15,163

 
***

Asset impairment charges

 

 
***

 
16,187

 

 
***

Adjusted operating income (non-GAAP basis)
280,142

 
186,824

 
50
%
 
801,095

 
577,139

 
39
%
Depreciation
46,681

 
38,195

 
22
%
 
136,295

 
115,588

 
18
%
Adjusted amortization (non-GAAP basis)
14,894

 
8,071

 
85
%
 
42,628

 
26,567

 
60
%
Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP basis)
$
341,717

 
$
233,090

 
47
%
 
$
980,018

 
$
719,294

 
36
%
    
Our Adjusted EBITDA increased $108.6 million for the quarter and $260.7 million for the year-to-date period. Strong results from the Broadcasting and Digital Segments represent over 70% of the Adjusted EBITDA for both the quarter and year-to-date periods.
Broadcasting Segment - Non-GAAP
A summary of the impact of special items on the Broadcasting Segment is presented below:
In thousands
Third Quarter
 
Year-to-Date
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Broadcasting Segment operating expenses (GAAP basis)
$
238,539

 
$
119,554

 
100
%
 
$
693,194

 
$
341,328

 
103
%
Remove special items:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Workforce Restructuring
(120
)
 
(639
)
 
(81
%)
 
(2,340
)
 
(639
)
 
***

Transformation costs
(1,230
)
 
(139
)
 
***

 
(14,095
)
 
(139
)
 
***

As adjusted (non-GAAP basis)
$
237,189

 
$
118,776

 
100
%
 
$
676,759

 
$
340,550

 
99
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Broadcasting Segment operating income (GAAP basis)
$
177,970

 
$
83,810

 
112
%
 
$
503,841

 
$
265,578

 
90
%
Remove special items:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Workforce Restructuring
120

 
639

 
(81
%)
 
2,340

 
639

 
***

Transformation costs
1,230

 
139

 
***

 
14,095

 
139

 
***

As adjusted (non-GAAP basis)
$
179,320

 
$
84,588

 
112
%
 
$
520,276

 
$
266,356

 
95
%
Adjusted Broadcasting Segment operating expenses increased 100% for the third quarter and 99% for the year-to-date period mainly due to the acquisitions of Belo and London Broadcasting Company television stations. Adjusted expenses on a pro forma basis increased 4% for both the third quarter and year-to-date periods reflecting higher costs related to increased revenues, higher investments in digital initiatives and reverse network compensation.
Adjusted operating income for the Broadcasting Segment was $179.3 million for the third quarter of 2014, an increase of 112% and was $520.3 million for the year-to-date period, an increase of 95%. Adjusted operating income on a pro forma basis increased 47% reflecting substantial increases in both retransmission and political advertising revenues. Adjusted operating

30



income on a pro forma basis increased 40% for the year-to-date period driven by substantial increases in retransmission and political advertising revenues.
Publishing Segment - Non-GAAP
A summary of the impact of special items on the Publishing Segment is presented below:
In thousands
Third Quarter
 
Year-to-Date
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Publishing Segment operating expenses (GAAP basis)
$
764,402

 
$
795,335

 
(4
%)
 
$
2,377,603

 
$
2,425,470

 
(2
%)
Remove special items:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Workforce restructuring
(2,884
)
 
(8,607
)
 
(66
%)
 
(27,046
)
 
(35,700
)
 
(24
%)
Transformation costs
(5,391
)
 
(5,741
)
 
(6
%)
 
(24,414
)
 
(15,024
)
 
63
%
Asset impairment charges

 

 
***

 
(16,187
)
 

 
***

As adjusted (non-GAAP basis)
$
756,127

 
$
780,987

 
(3
%)
 
$
2,309,956

 
$
2,374,746

 
(3
%)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Publishing Segment operating income (GAAP basis)
$
62,424

 
$
62,744

 
(1
%)
 
$
158,651

 
$
208,073

 
(24
%)
Remove special items:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Workforce restructuring
2,884

 
8,607

 
(66
%)
 
27,046

 
35,700

 
(24
%)
Transformation costs
5,391

 
5,741

 
(6
%)
 
24,414

 
15,024

 
63
%
Asset impairment charges

 

 
***

 
16,187

 

 
***

As adjusted (non-GAAP basis)
$
70,699

 
$
77,092

 
(8
%)
 
$
226,298

 
$
258,797

 
(13
%)
Publishing Segment adjusted operating expenses decreased by 3% for both the third quarter of 2014 and the year-to-date period. Adjusted operating expenses on a pro forma basis decreased by 2% for both the third quarter of 2014 and the year-to-date period. Third quarter and year-to-date comparisons were lower due to continued cost efficiency efforts.
Adjusted operating income for the Publishing Segment was $70.7 million for the third quarter of 2014, a decrease of 8% compared to the same period last year. The decrease reflects lower Publishing Segment revenues partially offset by lower circulation volume-driven expense declines as well as cost control and efficiency efforts. For the year-to-date period, adjusted Publishing Segment operating income was $226.3 million, a decrease of 13%. On a pro forma basis, adjusted Publishing Segment operating income decreased 6% for the third quarter of 2014 and decreased 12% for the year-to-date period.

31



Provision for Income Taxes - Non-GAAP
A summary of the impact of special items on our effective tax rate follows:
In thousands
Third Quarter
 
Year-to-Date
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income before income taxes as reported
$
188,892

 
$
124,201

 
$
642,893

 
$
412,405

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
(21,476
)
 
(17,753
)
 
(49,351
)
 
(42,772
)
Gannett pretax income (GAAP basis)
167,416

 
106,448

 
593,542

 
369,633

Remove special items:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Workforce restructuring
3,004

 
9,246

 
29,386

 
36,339

Transformation costs
6,621

 
5,880

 
38,509

 
15,163

Asset impairment

 

 
16,187

 

Non-operating items
20,478

 
21,025

 
(102,632
)
 
34,232

As adjusted (non-GAAP basis)
$
197,519

 
$
142,599

 
$
574,992

 
$
455,367

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Provision for income taxes as reported (GAAP basis)
$
48,900

 
$
26,700

 
$
207,400

 
$
71,700

Remove special items:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Workforce restructuring
1,000

 
3,600

 
10,800

 
14,300

Transformation costs
1,400

 
2,300

 
14,500

 
6,000

Asset impairment

 

 
800

 

Non-operating items
4,300

 
10,200

 
(39,700
)
 
14,600

Special tax benefit (charge)
5,600

 

 
(18,200
)
 
27,800

As adjusted (non-GAAP basis)
$
61,200

 
$
42,800

 
$
175,600

 
$
134,400

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Effective tax rate (GAAP basis)
29.2
%
 
25.1
%
 
34.9
%
 
19.4
%
As adjusted effective tax rate (non-GAAP basis)
31.0
%
 
30.0
%
 
30.5
%
 
29.5
%
The adjusted effective tax rate for the third quarter of 2014 was 31.0% compared to 30.0% for the comparable period last year. The adjusted effective tax rate for year-to-date period in 2014 was 30.5% compared to 29.5% for the comparable period last year. The effective tax rates for both years reflect benefits from releases of reserves on prior year tax positions.
Presentation of Pro Forma Information
Pro forma information is presented on the basis as if the acquisitions of Belo and London Broadcasting Company televisions stations, the Captivate disposition, the sale of a print business and the Apartments.com sale had occurred at the beginning of 2013. This pro forma financial information is based on historical results of operations, adjusted for the allocation of the purchase price and other acquisition accounting adjustments, and is not necessarily indicative of what our results would have been had we operated the businesses since the beginning of 2013. Pro forma adjustments include revenues and expenses of the six television stations acquired from London Broadcasting Company on July 8, 2014. The pro forma adjustments reflect depreciation expense and amortization of intangibles related to the fair value adjustments of the assets acquired and the alignment of accounting policies. The pro forma adjustments include reductions to revenues and expenses for the former Belo stations in Phoenix, AZ and St. Louis, MO. Certain of our subsidiaries and Sander Media, a holding company that has a station-operation agreement with us, agreed to sell these stations upon receiving government approval. KMOV-TV, the television station in St. Louis, was sold in February 2014 and the two television stations in Phoenix were sold in June 2014. Pro forma adjustments include reductions to revenues and expenses for Captivate since we sold our controlling interest in Captivate in the third quarter of 2013. Pro forma adjustments for Publishing Segment revenue and expenses include reductions related to the second quarter 2014 sale of a print business and the impact from the Classified Ventures sale of Apartments.com.

32



Reconciliations of our Broadcasting Segment, Publishing Segment and company-wide revenues and expenses on an as reported basis to a pro forma basis for the third quarter and for the year-to-date period in 2014 are below:
In thousands
Third Quarter 2014
 
Gannett
(as reported)
 
Special Items(a)
 
Pro Forma Adjustments (b)
 
 Gannett Pro Forma Combined
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Broadcasting revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Core (Local and National)
$
250,647

 
$

 
$
713

 
$
251,360

Political
39,995

 

 
1

 
39,996

Retransmission
91,903

 

 
193

 
92,096

Digital
26,001

 

 
23

 
26,024

Other
7,963

 

 
58

 
8,021

Total broadcasting revenue
416,509

 

 
988

 
417,497

Broadcasting expenses
238,539

 
(1,350
)
 
803

 
237,992

Broadcasting operating income
$
177,970

 
$
1,350

 
$
185

 
$
179,505

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(a) See reconciliation of special items beginning on page 26.
(b) We acquired six television stations from London Broadcasting Company on July 8, 2014. Results from these television stations from that date and forward are included in the as reported numbers above. The Gannett pro forma combined numbers above present results as if the acquisition had taken place on the first day of 2013.
In thousands
Year-to-Date 2014
 
Gannett
(as reported)
 
Special Items(a)
 
Pro Forma Adjustments (b)
 
 Gannett Pro Forma Combined
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Broadcasting revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Core (Local and National)
$
769,570

 
$

 
$
20,066

 
$
789,636

Political
66,539

 

 
773

 
67,312

Retransmission
268,025

 

 
3,622

 
271,647

Digital
70,662

 

 
593

 
71,255

Other
22,239

 

 
1,836

 
24,075

Total broadcasting revenue
1,197,035

 

 
26,890

 
1,223,925

Broadcasting expenses
693,194

 
(16,435
)
 
23,036

 
699,795

Broadcasting operating income
$
503,841

 
$
16,435

 
$
3,854

 
$
524,130

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(a) See reconciliation of special items beginning on page 26.
(b) We acquired six television stations from London Broadcasting Company on July 8, 2014. Results from these television stations from that date and forward are included in the as reported numbers above. The Gannett pro forma combined numbers above present results as if the acquisition had taken place on the first day of 2013.

33



In thousands
Year-to-Date 2014
 
Gannett
(as reported)
 
Special Items (a)
 
Pro Forma Adjustments (b)
 
 Gannett Pro Forma Combined
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Publishing revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Advertising
$
1,526,382

 
$

 
$
(3,761
)
 
$
1,522,621

Circulation
836,756

 

 

 
836,756

Other
173,116

 

 
(8,666
)
 
164,450

Total publishing revenue
2,536,254

 

 
(12,427
)
 
2,523,827

Publishing expenses
2,377,603

 
(67,647
)
 
(10,486
)
 
2,299,470

Publishing operating income
$
158,651

 
$
67,647

 
$
(1,941
)
 
$
224,357

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(a) See reconciliation of special items beginning on page 26.
(b) The pro forma adjustments include a reduction of $4 million in revenue and $1 million in expense for Apartments.com, which was sold by Classified Ventures in the second quarter of 2014. Pro forma adjustments include a reduction of $9 million of revenue and $9 million of expense related to the sale of a printing business in the second quarter of 2014.
In thousands
Year-to-Date 2014
 
Gannett
(as reported)
 
Special Items(a)
 
Pro Forma Adjustments (b)
 
 Gannett Pro Forma Combined
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Company-wide operating revenue
$
4,307,207

 
$

 
$
14,463

 
$
4,321,670

Company-wide operating expenses
3,590,194

 
(84,082
)
 
12,550

 
3,518,662

Company-wide operating income
$
717,013

 
$
84,082

 
$
1,913

 
$
803,008

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(a) See reconciliation of special items beginning on page 26.
(b) The pro forma adjustments include the Broadcasting and Publishing pro forma adjustments discussed above.

34



Reconciliations of our Broadcasting Segment, Publishing Segment and company-wide revenues and expenses on an as reported basis to a pro forma basis for the third quarter and for the year-to-date period in 2013 are below:
In thousands
Third Quarter 2013
 
Gannett
(as reported)
 
Belo
(as reported)
 
Special Items(a)
 
Pro Forma Adjustments (b)
 
 Gannett Pro Forma Combined
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Broadcasting revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Core (Local and National)
$
143,317

 
$
125,518

 
$

 
$
(9,563
)
 
$
259,272

Political
3,606

 
2,636

 

 
(394
)
 
5,848

Retransmission
36,240

 
21,996

 

 
(1,004
)
 
57,232

Digital
9,598

 
13,238

 

 
(1,869
)
 
20,967

Other
10,603

 
2,804

 

 
(4,768
)
 
8,639

Total broadcasting revenue
203,364

 
166,192

 

 
(17,598
)
 
351,958

Broadcasting expenses
119,554

 
123,828

 
(778
)
 
(12,793
)
 
229,811

Broadcasting operating income
$
83,810

 
$
42,364

 
$
778

 
$
(4,805
)
 
$
122,147

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(a) See reconciliation of special items beginning on page 26.
(b) The pro forma adjustments include reductions to revenues and expenses for the sale of stations in Phoenix, AZ and St. Louis, MO totaling $25 million and $20 million, respectively. Subsidiaries of Gannett and Sander Media, a holding company that had a shared services agreement with Gannett, agreed to sell these stations upon receiving government approval. KMOV-TV, the television station in St. Louis, was sold in February 2014 and the two television stations in Phoenix were sold in June 2014. Revenue and expense adjustments totaling $12 million and $10 million, respectively, were added as if the third quarter 2014 acquisition of six London Broadcasting Company television stations had occurred on the first day of 2013. Pro forma adjustments also include reductions to revenues and expenses for Captivate that totaled $5 million and $6 million, respectively, as Gannett sold its controlling interest in Captivate in the third quarter of 2013. The pro forma adjustments for broadcasting expense reflect the addition of $6 million of amortization for definite-lived intangible assets as if the acquisition of Belo had occurred on the first day of 2013. The pro forma adjustment for broadcasting expense removes $3 million of merger costs incurred by Belo.
In thousands
Year-to-Date 2013
 
Gannett
(as reported)
 
Belo
(as reported)
 
Special Items(a)
 
Pro Forma Adjustments (b)
 
 Gannett Pro Forma Combined
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Broadcasting revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Core (Local and National)
$
430,668

 
$
388,629

 
$

 
$
(32,939
)
 
$
786,358

Political
7,133

 
4,429

 

 
(970
)
 
10,592

Retransmission
109,182

 
59,693

 

 
(3,165
)
 
165,710

Digital
26,549

 
38,241

 

 
(5,690
)
 
59,100

Other
33,374

 
9,045

 

 
(18,060
)
 
24,359

Total broadcasting revenue
606,906

 
500,037

 

 
(60,824
)
 
1,046,119

Broadcasting expenses
341,328

 
368,486

 
(778
)
 
(36,735
)
 
672,301

Broadcasting operating income
$
265,578

 
$
131,551

 
$
778

 
$
(24,089
)
 
$
373,818

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(a) See reconciliation of special items beginning on page 26.
(b) The pro forma adjustments include reductions to revenues and expenses for the sale of stations in Phoenix, AZ and St. Louis, MO totaling $78 million and $61 million, respectively. Subsidiaries of Gannett and Sander Media, a holding company that had a shared services agreement with Gannett, agreed to sell these stations upon receiving government approval. KMOV-TV, the television station in St. Louis, was sold in February 2014 and the two television stations in Phoenix were sold in June 2014. Revenue and expense adjustments totaling $35 million and $30 million, respectively, were added as if the third quarter 2014 acquisition of six London Broadcasting Company television stations had occurred on the first day of 2013. Pro forma adjustments also include reductions to revenues and expenses for Captivate that totaled $18 million, respectively, as Gannett sold its controlling interest in Captivate in the third quarter of 2013. The pro forma adjustments for broadcasting expense reflect the addition of $18 million of amortization for definite-lived intangible assets as if the acquisition of Belo had occurred on the first day of 2013. The pro forma adjustment for broadcasting expense removes $6 million of merger costs incurred by Belo.


35



In thousands
Third Quarter 2013
 
Gannett
(as reported)
 
Special Items (a)
 
Pro Forma Adjustments (b)
 
 Gannett Pro Forma Combined
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Publishing revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Advertising
$
520,189

 
$

 
$
(3,721
)
 
$
516,468

Circulation
274,999

 

 

 
274,999

All other
62,891

 

 
(6,412
)
 
56,479

Total publishing revenue
858,079

 

 
(10,133
)
 
847,946

Publishing expenses
795,335

 
(14,348
)
 
(8,499
)
 
772,488

Publishing operating income
$
62,744

 
$
14,348

 
$
(1,634
)
 
$
75,458

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(a) See reconciliation of special items beginning on page 26.
(b) The pro forma adjustments include a reduction of $4 million in revenue and $1 million in expense for Apartments.com, which was sold by Classified Ventures in the second quarter of 2014. Pro forma adjustments include a reduction of $6 million of revenue and $7 million of expense related to the sale of a printing business in the second quarter of 2014.
In thousands
Year-to-Date 2013
 
Gannett
(as reported)
 
Special Items (a)
 
Pro Forma Adjustments (b)
 
 Gannett Pro Forma Combined
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Publishing revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
 

Advertising
$
1,609,164

 
$

 
$
(11,115
)
 
$
1,598,049

Circulation
840,626

 

 

 
840,626

All other
183,753

 

 
(19,284
)
 
164,469

Total publishing revenue
2,633,543

 

 
(30,399
)
 
2,603,144

Publishing expenses
2,425,470

 
(50,724
)
 
(25,270
)
 
2,349,476

Publishing operating income
$
208,073

 
$
50,724

 
$
(5,129
)
 
$
253,668

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(a) See reconciliation of special items beginning on page 26.
(b) The pro forma adjustments include a reduction of $11 million in revenue and $3 million in expense for Apartments.com, which was sold by Classified Ventures in the second quarter of 2014. Pro forma adjustments include a reduction of $19 million of revenue and $22 million of expense related to the sale of a printing business in the second quarter of 2014.
In thousands
Third Quarter 2013
 
Gannett
(as reported)
 
Belo
(as reported)
 
Special Items(a)
 
Pro Forma Adjustments (b)
 
 Gannett Pro Forma Combined
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Company-wide operating revenue
$
1,252,890

 
$
166,192

 
$

 
$
(27,731
)
 
$
1,391,351

Company-wide operating expenses
1,081,192

 
123,828

 
(15,126
)
 
(21,292
)
 
1,168,602

Company-wide operating income
$
171,698

 
$
42,364

 
$
15,126

 
$
(6,439
)
 
$
222,749

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(a) See reconciliation of special items beginning on page 26.
(b) The pro forma adjustments include the Broadcasting and Publishing pro forma adjustments discussed above.

36



In thousands
Year-to-Date 2013
 
Gannett
(as reported)
 
Belo
(as reported)
 
Special Items(a)
 
Pro Forma Adjustments (b)
 
 Gannett Pro Forma Combined
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Company-wide operating revenue
$
3,793,324

 
$
500,037

 
$

 
$
(91,223
)
 
$
4,202,138

Company-wide operating expenses
3,267,687

 
368,486

 
(51,502
)
 
(62,005
)
 
3,522,666

Company-wide operating income
$
525,637

 
$
131,551

 
$
51,502

 
$
(29,218
)
 
$
679,472

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(a) See reconciliation of special items beginning on page 26.
(b) The pro forma adjustments include the Broadcasting and Publishing pro forma adjustments discussed above.
Certain Matters Affecting Future Operating Results
The following items will affect year-over-year comparisons for future results:
Broadcasting Segment Revenues and Expenses - Broadcasting Segment revenues will increase significantly in the fourth quarter of 2014 due to the expanded broadcasting portfolio, a substantial increase in political advertising, higher retransmission revenue and digital revenue growth. We expect political revenue to increase significantly as our political footprint is larger than ever with our markets covering many of the key toss-up Senate and Governor races across the country. We expect Broadcasting Segment expenses to increase with the expanded portfolio as well as from increases in reverse network compensation and investments in digital initiatives. Based on current trends and including a full quarter of results for the former Belo and London Broadcasting Company television stations, we expect the increase in total Broadcasting Segment revenues for the fourth quarter of 2014 compared to the fourth quarter of 2013 to exceed 115%. On a pro forma basis, the percentage increase in total Broadcasting Segment revenues in the fourth quarter of 2014 is projected to be up in the low-twenties compared to the fourth quarter of 2013.
Acquisition of remaining 73% interest in Classified Ventures LLC - On October 1, 2014, we acquired the remaining 73% interest in Classified Ventures, LLC, which owns Cars.com, for $1.8 billion. With respect to the financial impact of consolidating Cars.com and the impact of the new affiliate agreements that went into effect at closing, we expect a substantial increase in Digital Segment Adjusted EBITDA in the fourth quarter compared to 2013. The Publishing Segment Adjusted EBITDA year-over-year comparison will be negatively impacted by approximately $7 million in the fourth quarter, as a result of new terms with Classified Ventures that are similar to the new affiliate agreements entered into with the former newspaper investors. Overall equity income will be lower by about $6 million now that we own Cars.com in its entirety. As a result, we expect the addition of Cars.com to be about neutral to net income and earnings per share in the fourth quarter after including additional interest expense and amortization of intangibles related to the acquisition.
Interest Expense - We expect our interest expense to increase significantly in the fourth quarter 2014, reflecting the debt incurred to acquire the remaining 73% interest in Classified Ventures LLC, which owns Cars.com.
Income Taxes - We estimate the non-GAAP income tax rate to be just under 30% for the fourth quarter and in the range of 30% - 31% for the full year of 2014.
Foreign Currency - Our U.K. publishing operations are conducted through our Newsquest subsidiary. Newsquest earnings are translated at the average British pound-to-U.S. dollar exchange rate. Therefore, a strengthening in the exchange rate will improve Newsquest revenue and earnings contributions to consolidated results. A weakening of the exchange rate will have a negative impact. Newsquest results for the full year of 2013 were translated from the British pound sterling to U.S. dollars at an average rate of 1.56. By comparison, Newsquest results for the first nine months of 2014 were translated into U.S. dollars at an average rate of 1.67.
Liquidity, Capital Resources and Cash Flows
Our cash generating capability and financial condition, together with our revolving credit agreement, are sufficient to fund our capital expenditures, interest, dividends, share repurchases, contributions to our pension plans, investments in strategic initiatives and other operating requirements. Looking ahead, we expect to continue to fund debt maturities, acquisitions and investments through a combination of cash flows from operations, borrowings under our revolving credit agreement and/or funds raised in the capital or credit markets.
In February 2012, we announced a new capital allocation plan, which aimed to return $1.3 billion to shareholders by 2015. This plan included increasing our dividend to its current level of $0.80 per share on an annual basis. A $300 million share repurchase program was also launched. On June 13, 2013, we announced that the existing share buyback program was replaced

37



with a new $300 million authorization projected to be completed within the two year period following its announcement. As of September 28, 2014, we had $148.9 million remaining under this authorization. However, repurchases have been temporarily suspended in support of the Classified Ventures acquisition. As a result, during the third quarter of 2014 there were no share repurchases. Our existing dividend program remains unchanged.
On September 8, 2014, we completed the private placement of $350.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 4.875% senior unsecured notes due 2021. The 2021 Notes were priced at 98.531% of face value, resulting in a yield to maturity of 5.125%. On the same day, we completed the private placement of $325.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 5.50% senior unsecured notes due 2024. The 2024 Notes were priced at 99.038% of face value, resulting in a yield to maturity of 5.625%. We used the net proceeds, cash and borrowings under our revolving credit facility to finance the acquisition of all of the outstanding membership interests of Classified Ventures, LLC (owner of Cars.com) that we did not previously own.
At the end of the third quarter of 2014, our total long-term debt was $4.11 billion and our leverage ratio was 2.99x, substantially below the maximum leverage ratio of 4.0x permitted by our Amended and Restated Credit Agreement. Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the third quarter totaled $1.37 billion. Early in the fourth quarter of 2014, we borrowed $650.0 million under our revolving credit agreement. We used the proceeds of this borrowing as well as cash at the end of the third quarter to pay for the Classified Ventures, LLC acquisition. Immediately following the acquisition, our unused borrowing capacity on the revolving credit agreement was $617.5 million. We plan to fund the $250.0 million notes due in November 2014 through additional borrowings under our revolving credit agreement.
Our financial and operating performance, as well as our ability to generate sufficient cash flow to maintain compliance with credit facility covenants, are subject to certain risk factors as noted in the section below titled “Certain Factors Affecting Forward-Looking Statements.”
Cash Flows
Our net cash flow from operating activities was $572.6 million for the first nine months of 2014, compared to $349.0 million for the first nine months of 2013. The increase in net cash flow from operating activities resulted principally from incremental cash flow from the new Gannett television stations we acquired from Belo in late 2013.
Cash flows from investing activities totaled $170.2 million for the first nine months of 2014, compared to cash outflow of $24.5 million for the same period in 2013 or a difference of $194.7 million. We received a $154.6 million cash distribution from Classified Ventures related to its sale of Apartments.com as a return of investment in the second quarter of 2014. Year-to-date 2014 payments for acquisitions reflect the cash spent to acquire the London Broadcasting Company television stations and CareerBuilder’s acquisition of Broadbean. Payments for acquisitions also reflect the cash spent by us to acquire KMOV-TV, KASW-TV and KTVK-TV television station assets that were previously owned by other parties. We purchased those assets pursuant to an option agreement we had with the former owner. These assets and other KMOV-TV, KASW-TV and KTVK-TV assets we already owned were immediately sold to Meredith Corporation. Meredith purchased the assets for $407.5 million plus working capital. We used a portion of the proceeds in a tax efficient structure to acquire six London Broadcasting Company television stations from SunTX Capital Partners, which closed early in our third quarter.
Cash inflows from financing activities totaled $162.6 million for the first nine months of 2014, compared to $311.9 million for the first nine months of 2013. The decrease in cash inflows from financing activities was mainly due to lower net debt issuance proceeds. Such proceeds were $666.7 million in the first nine months of 2014 compared to $746.2 million in 2013 which were offset by debt payments of $277.6 million in the first nine months of 2014 compared to $205.0 million in 2013.
Non-GAAP Liquidity Measure
Our free cash flow, a non-GAAP liquidity measure, was $185.9 million for the quarter ended September 28, 2014 and $642.0 million for the year-to-date period. Free cash flow, which we reconcile to “net cash flow from operating activities,” is cash flow from operations reduced by “purchase of property, plant and equipment” as well as “payments for investments” and increased by “proceeds from investments” and voluntary pension contributions, net of related tax benefit. We believe that free cash flow is a useful measure for management and investors to evaluate the level of cash generated by operations and the ability of its operations to fund investments in new and existing businesses, return cash to shareholders under our capital program, repay indebtedness or to use in other discretionary activities.

38



Reconciliations from “Net cash flow from operating activities” to “Free cash flow” follow:
In thousands
Third Quarter
 
Year-to-Date
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net cash flow from operating activities
$
217,662

 
$
125,017

 
$
572,601

 
$
348,958

Purchase of property, plant and equipment
(34,654
)
 
(23,770
)
 
(91,559
)
 
(72,668
)
Voluntary pension employer contributions

 

 

 
15,507

Tax benefit for voluntary pension employer contributions

 

 

 
(6,125
)
Payments for investments

 
(1,001
)
 
(5,318
)
 
(3,380
)
Proceeds from investments
2,936

 
5,414

 
166,251

 
34,779

Free cash flow
$
185,944

 
$
105,660

 
$
641,975

 
$
317,071

Our net cash flow from operating activities and free cash flow in 2014 were substantially higher than in 2013. This increase reflects incremental cash flow from our new television stations acquired in late 2013 and a $154.6 million cash distribution received from Classified Ventures related to its sale of Apartments.com in the second quarter of 2014.
Certain Factors Affecting Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contain forward-looking information. The words “expect,” “intend,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “likely,” “will” and similar expressions generally identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. We are not responsible for updating or revising any forward-looking statements, whether the result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.
Potential risks and uncertainties which could adversely affect our results include, without limitation, the following factors: (a) increased consolidation among major retailers or other events which may adversely affect business operations of major customers and depress the level of local and national advertising; (b) a potential increase in competition for our Digital Segment businesses; (c) a decline in viewership of major networks and local news programming resulting from increased competition, including alternative forms of media, or other factors; (d) a continuance of the generally soft economic conditions in the U.S. and the U.K. or a further economic downturn leading to a continuing or accelerated decrease in circulation or local, national or classified advertising; (e) a further decline in general print readership and/or advertiser patterns as a result of competitive alternative media or other factors; (f) an increase in newsprint or syndication programming costs over the levels anticipated; (g) labor disputes which may cause revenue declines or increased labor costs; (h) acquisitions of new businesses or dispositions of existing businesses; (i) rapid technological changes and frequent new product introductions prevalent in electronic publishing and digital businesses; (j) an increase in interest rates; (k) a weakening in the British pound to U.S. dollar exchange rate; (l) volatility in financial and credit markets which could affect the value of retirement plan assets and our ability to raise funds through debt or equity issuances; (m) changes in the regulatory environment could encumber or impede our efforts to improve operating results or the value of assets; (n) credit rating downgrades, which could affect the availability and cost of future financing; (o) adverse outcomes in proceedings with governmental authorities or administrative agencies; (p) cyber security breaches; (q) the proposed separation of our Publishing business from our Broadcasting and Digital businesses may not be completed on the terms or timeline currently contemplated, if at all; (r) general economic, political and business conditions; and (s) an other than temporary decline in operating results and enterprise value that could lead to non-cash goodwill, other intangible asset, investment or property, plant and equipment impairment charges. We continue to monitor the uneven economic recovery in the U.S. and U.K., as well as new and developing competition and technological change, to evaluate whether any indicators of impairment exist, particularly for those reporting units where fair value is closer to carrying value.
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
We believe that our market risk from financial instruments, such as accounts receivable, accounts payable and debt, is immaterial. We are exposed to foreign exchange rate risk primarily due to our operations in the United Kingdom, for which the British pound is the functional currency. If the price of the British pound against the U.S. dollar had been 10% more or less than the actual price, operating income for the third quarter of 2014 would have increased or decreased approximately 1%.
At the end of the third quarter of 2014, we had $166.4 million in long-term floating rate obligations outstanding. While these fluctuate with market interest rates, by way of comparison, a 50 basis points increase or decrease in the average interest rate for these obligations would result in a change in annualized interest expense of less than $1 million.
The fair value of our total long-term debt, based on bid and ask quotes for the related debt, totaled $4.23 billion at September 28, 2014 and $3.93 billion at December 29, 2013.

39



Item 4. Controls and Procedures
Based on their evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective, as of September 28, 2014, to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that the we file or submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 are recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms.
There have been no changes in our internal controls or in other factors during the fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controls over financial reporting.
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
There have been no material developments with respect to our potential liability for environmental matters previously reported in our 2013 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Item 1A. Risk Factors

The following is an update to our risk factors disclosed in our 2013 Annual Report on Form 10-K and should be read in conjunction with the other risk factors disclosed therein.

The proposed separation of our Publishing business from our Broadcasting and Digital businesses is subject to various risks and uncertainties, and may not be completed on the terms or timeline currently contemplated, if at all.

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. The separation, which is expected to be completed in mid-2015, is subject to final approval of our Board of Directors. In addition, unanticipated developments, including possible delays in obtaining various tax opinions or rulings, regulatory approvals or clearances and uncertainty of the financial markets, could delay or prevent the completion of the proposed separation or cause the proposed separation to occur on terms or conditions that are different from those currently expected. As a result, we cannot assure that we will be able to complete the proposed separation on the terms or the timeline that we announced, if at all.
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
On June 11, 2013, our Board of Directors approved a new $300 million share repurchase program (replacing the 2012 $300 million program). Share repurchases have been temporarily suspended in support of the Classified Ventures acquisition. As a result, during the third quarter of 2014 there were no share repurchases.
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities
This item is not applicable.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures
This item is not applicable.
Item 5. Other Information
This item is not applicable.
Item 6. Exhibits
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibit Index attached hereto and made a part hereof.

40



SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

Date: November 5, 2014
GANNETT CO., INC.
 
 
 
/s/ Victoria D. Harker
 
Victoria D. Harker
 
Chief Financial Officer
 
(on behalf of Registrant and as Principal Financial Officer)


41



EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit Number
 
Exhibit
 
Location
 
 
 
 
 
3-1
 
Third Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Gannett Co., Inc.
 
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Gannett Co., Inc.’s Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended April 1, 2007.
 
 
 
 
 
3-2
 
Amended by-laws of Gannett Co., Inc.
 
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to Gannett Co., Inc.’s Form 8-K dated July 29, 2014 and filed on August 1, 2014.
 
 
 
 
 
4-1
 
Specimen Certificate for Gannett Co., Inc.’s common stock, par value $1.00 per share.
 
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2 to Gannett Co., Inc.’s Form 8-B filed on June 14, 1972.
 
 
 
 
 
10-1
 
Gannett Leadership Team Transition Severance Plan*
 
Attached.
 
 
 
 
 
10-2
 
Unit Purchase Agreement, dated as of August 5, 2014, by and among Gannett Co., Inc., Classified Ventures, LLC, the unit holders of Classified Ventures, LLC (the “Sellers”), certain subsidiaries of the Sellers, Gannett Satellite Information Network, Inc., and Belo Ventures, Inc.
 
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Gannett Co., Inc.’s Form 8-K filed on August 5, 2014
 
 
 
 
 
31-1
 
Rule 13a-14(a) Certification of CEO.
 
Attached.
 
 
 
 
 
31-2
 
Rule 13a-14(a) Certification of CFO.
 
Attached.
 
 
 
 
 
32-1
 
Section 1350 Certification of CEO.
 
Attached.
 
 
 
 
 
32-2
 
Section 1350 Certification of CFO.
 
Attached.
 
 
 
 
 
101
 
The following financial information from Gannett Co., Inc. Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 28, 2014, formatted in XBRL includes: (i) Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013, (ii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income for the fiscal quarter and year-to-date periods ended September 28, 2014 and September 29, 2013, (iii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the fiscal quarter and year-to-date periods ended September 28, 2014 and September 29, 2013, (iv) Condensed Consolidated Cash Flow Statements for the fiscal year-to-date periods ended September 28, 2014 and September 29, 2013, and (v) the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Attached.

* Asterisks identify management contracts and compensatory plans or arrangements.

We agree to furnish to the Commission, upon request, a copy of each agreement with respect to long-term debt not filed herewith in reliance upon the exemption from filing applicable to any series of debt representing less than 10% of our total consolidated assets.

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