Despite exploring other revenue generating options, Tiso Blackstar Group has told staff it is considering shutting down the print edition of The Times.
In a statement company managing director Andy Gill said the group is planning to “replace the newspaper with a digital-only daily premium product”.
Launched in 2007, Gill says, “Despite several changes which have been introduced to the business over the past few years, the print product has remained unprofitable. Tiso Blackstar is proposing the introduction of a premium, digital-only daily edition in a new format, which draws on successful models that have been implemented internationally.”
He adds that the change will necessitate a restructuring and possible retrenchments. Staff have been engaged in a consultation process in terms of Section 189 of the Labour Relations Act.
Gill concludes, “At this stage we are not in a position to make further comment until the consultation process has progressed.”
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