Filed by Bowne Pure Compliance
Table of Contents

 
 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-Q
 
     
þ   QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended March 30, 2008
OR
     
o   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   (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
incorporation or organization)    
     
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 þ No o
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 þ   Accelerated Filer o   Non-Accelerated Filer o   Smaller Reporting Company o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act): Yes o No þ
The total number of shares of the registrant’s Common Stock, $1 par value, outstanding as of March 30, 2008, was 228,685,998.
 
 

 

 


TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Items 1 and 2. Financial Statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
Item 4. Controls and Procedures
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
Item 6. Exhibits
SIGNATURES
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit 31.1
Exhibit 31.2
Exhibit 32.1
Exhibit 32.2


Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Items 1 and 2. Financial Statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF OPERATIONS
Operating Summary
Earnings per diluted share from continuing operations for the first quarter of 2008 were $0.84 compared with $0.88 per share in the first quarter of 2007. The 2008 results include a gain on the sale of land of $25.5 million ($15.8 million after tax) or $0.07 per diluted share. Operating revenues declined 8% to $1.7 billion in the first quarter, reflecting a weaker economy in the US and the UK, and a very challenging advertising environment that softened revenues in our publishing and broadcasting segments.
Operating income was $327.6 million for the first quarter of 2008 and $381.7 million for the first quarter of 2007. Income from continuing operations for the first quarter of 2008 was $191.8 million compared to $206.4 million last year. Net income decreased 9% to $191.8 million for the first quarter of 2008.
The Company’s continued aggressive cost control efforts during the quarter mitigated to a significant degree the effects of lower revenue results.
2007 Business Dispositions
In May 2007, the company completed the sale of the Norwich (CT) Bulletin; the Rockford (IL) Register Star; the Observer-Dispatch in Utica, NY; and The Herald-Dispatch in Huntington, WV to GateHouse Media, Inc. and contributed the Chronicle-Tribune in Marion, IN to the Gannett Foundation. For the first quarter of 2007, results from these businesses have been reported as discontinued operations.
Publishing Results
Publishing revenues decreased 9% to $1.5 billion for the first quarter of 2008 compared to $1.6 billion in the first quarter of 2007. Domestic advertising revenues decreased 11% and in British pounds, advertising revenues in the UK decreased 7%. On a constant currency basis total publishing advertising revenue would have decreased 10%. The average exchange rate used to translate UK publishing results from Sterling to U.S. dollars increased 1% from 1.95 for the first quarter 2007 to 1.98 for the first quarter 2008.
Publishing operating revenues are derived principally from advertising and circulation sales, which accounted for 73% and 21%, respectively, of total publishing revenues for the first quarter of 2008. Advertising revenues include amounts derived from advertising placed with publishing internet web sites as well as print products. Other publishing revenues are mainly from commercial printing operations and PointRoll. The table below presents these components of publishing revenues for the first quarter of 2008 and 2007.
Publishing revenues, in thousands of dollars
                         
First Quarter   2008     2007     % Change  
 
                       
Advertising
  $ 1,096,894     $ 1,221,627       (10 )
Circulation
    309,178       317,535       (3 )
All other
    100,617       108,993       (8 )
 
                 
Total
  $ 1,506,689     $ 1,648,155       (9 )
 
                 

 

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The table below presents the principal categories of advertising revenues for the publishing segment.
Advertising revenues, in thousands of dollars
                         
First Quarter   2008     2007     % Change  
 
                       
Retail
  $ 478,968     $ 519,402       (8 )
National
    174,889       174,857        
Classified
    443,037       527,368       (16 )
 
                 
Total publishing advertising revenue
  $ 1,096,894     $ 1,221,627       (10 )
 
                 
Publishing advertising revenues decreased 10% from $1.2 billion to $1.1 billion for the first quarter. UK publishing advertising decreased 6% reflecting a downturn in classified advertising. For US domestic publishing, advertising decreased 11%, reflecting softness in classified and also in the retail category.
For the first quarter retail advertising revenues were 8% lower. Retail advertising in the U.S. for the quarter was down 9%. Revenues were lower in most principal categories, with the most significant declines in the furniture, financial, telecommunications and home improvement categories. Some of the more significant category losses were tied to the very soft real estate environment.
National advertising revenues were flat for the first quarter. USA TODAY advertising revenues increased 2%. Paid ad pages at USA TODAY were 826 for the first quarter compared to 904 for the same period last year. At USA Weekend, national ad revenues rose 7% for the quarter.
Total classified advertising revenues decreased 16% for the quarter primarily due to the very soft domestic real estate market in the west and southeast, specifically Florida, Arizona, California and Nevada. Domestic classified real estate revenues were down 24% for the quarter, employment revenues were down 20%, and auto revenues decreased 14%. Classified revenues for UK publishing decreased 9% for the quarter on a constant currency basis. In the UK, auto and real estate advertising revenues were down 21% and 14%, respectively, while employment revenues were 8% lower, all on a constant currency basis. The timing of the Easter holiday in the quarter contributed in part to the softness in classified revenue.
Total online/digital revenues associated with publishing operations rose 6% in the first quarter of 2008.
Circulation revenues declined 3% for the first quarter of 2008. Net paid daily circulation for the company’s publishing operations, excluding USA TODAY, declined 5% while Sunday net paid circulation was down 6%. In the March Publishers Statement submitted to ABC, circulation for USA TODAY for the previous six months increased 0.3% from 2,278,022 in 2007 to 2,284,219 in 2008.
The 8% decrease in “All other” revenues for the first quarter of 2008, was primarily due to lower commercial printing activity.
Publishing operating expenses were down 7% for the first quarter of 2008 due to strong operating cost controls, including a significant decline in newsprint usage and expense. Newsprint expense was 19% lower for the quarter, reflecting a 14% decline in usage, including savings from web width reductions, greater use of light weight newsprint, and a 6% decrease in price. On a constant currency cash basis, operating expenses decreased 7% for the quarter. For the remainder of 2008, newsprint prices are expected to be above prior year levels while consumption will be below last year.
Publishing operating income decreased $55 million or 16%, reflecting the challenging print advertising environment discussed above, partially mitigated by operating cost savings throughout the group.

 

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Broadcasting Results
Broadcasting includes results from the company’s 23 television stations and Captivate Network, Inc. Reported broadcasting revenues were $170.2 million in the first quarter 2008 compared to $183.1 million in 2007, a decline of $12.9 million or 7%. Television revenues, excluding Captivate, were down 7% in the quarter, with local revenues down 9% and national revenues down 7%. The decline in revenue reflects the softer economic environment and the absence of the Super Bowl ad spending on the company’s CBS affiliates. These factors were partially offset by an increase of approximately $4 million in politically related advertising revenue. Online revenues increased 11% for the quarter. Broadcasting operating expenses decreased 5% for the first quarter of 2008, to $112.4 million, reflecting lower ad sales expense and lower stock-based compensation. Reported operating income from broadcasting was down $6 million or 10% in the first quarter.
Corporate Expense
Corporate expenses in the first quarter were $15.7 million as compared to $23.1 million a year ago. The decline reflects primarily tight cost controls and lower stock compensation expense, as options granted were at a significantly lower fair value. The company anticipates total stock based compensation expense for the full year will be below the 2007 amount.
Consolidated Operating Expenses
For the quarter, total operating expenses were below last year by $100.2 million, or 7%. Important savings were achieved in both the publishing and broadcasting segments and at the corporate level. In addition to lower newsprint expense, payroll, stock compensation and most other general operating costs were lower for all groups. For the company’s online/digital operations, higher costs were incurred for added personnel and technology to support new initiatives, which added less than 1% to our cost base, and operating asset sale gains mitigated these cost increases.
Non-Operating Income and Expense
The company’s interest expense decreased $24.4 million or 33% for the quarter, due to lower average outstanding debt levels and lower interest rates. The daily average outstanding balance of commercial paper was $724 million during the first quarter of 2008 and $2.1 billion during the first quarter of 2007. The weighted average interest rate on commercial paper was 4.0% and 5.4% for the first quarter of 2008 and 2007, respectively. Total average outstanding debt for the first quarter was $4.0 billion in 2008 and $5.1 billion in 2007. The weighted average interest rate for total outstanding debt was 4.6% for the quarter as compared to 5.4% last year.
Because the company has $717 million in commercial paper obligations that have relatively short-term maturity dates, and $1.0 billion of floating rate convertible notes at March 30, 2008, it is subject to changes in the amount of interest expense it might incur. Assuming the current level of commercial paper borrowings of $717 million and $1.0 billion of floating rate notes, a 1/2% increase or decrease in the average interest rate for these obligations would result in an increase or decrease in annual interest expense of $8.6 million.
At the end of 2007, the company’s equity share of operating results from its newspaper partnerships, including Tucson, which participates in a joint operating agency, the California Newspapers Partnership and Texas-New Mexico Newspapers Partnership, were reclassified from “All other” revenue and reflected as “Equity income (losses) in unconsolidated investees, net” in the non-operating section of the Consolidated Statements of Income. This line also includes equity income and losses from online/new technology businesses which were previously classified in the “Other” non-operating items. “All other” revenue is now comprised principally of commercial printing revenues and revenue from PointRoll. All periods presented reflect these reclassifications.
The company’s net equity losses in unconsolidated investees increased $10.3 million for the quarter, primarily due to lower operating results from all three of the company’s newspaper partnerships, increased promotional and business development spending at CareerBuilder and Classified Ventures and operating costs for newly established digital/online businesses, including Metromix.
Other non-operating income for 2008 reflects a gain of $25.5 million upon the final closing of the sale of excess land adjacent to the company’s headquarters in McLean, Virginia.

 

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Provision for Income Taxes
The company’s effective income tax rate for continuing operations was 34.2% for the first quarter of 2008 compared to 32.8% for the same period last year. The lower tax rate for 2007 is primarily due to the settlement of certain state tax issues in that period.
Discontinued Operations
Earnings from discontinued operations represent the combined operating results (net of income taxes) of the Norwich (CT) Bulletin, the Rockford (IL) Register Star, the Observer-Dispatch in Utica, NY and The Herald-Dispatch in Huntington, WV that were sold to GateHouse Media, Inc. on May 7, 2007 and the Chronicle-Tribune in Marion, IN that was contributed to the Gannett Foundation on May 21, 2007. The revenues and expenses from each of these properties have, along with associated income taxes, been removed from continuing operations and netted into a single amount on the Statement of Income titled “Income from the operation of discontinued operations, net of tax” for the first quarter of 2007.
Taxes provided on the earnings from discontinued operations totaled $2.8 million for the first quarter of 2007. This includes U.S. federal and state income taxes and represents an effective rate of approximately 39%. The excess of this effective rate over the U.S. statutory rate of 35% is due principally to state income taxes. Earnings from discontinued operations per diluted share were $0.02 for the first quarter of 2007.
Net Income
The company’s net income was $191.8 million for the first quarter of 2008 compared to $210.6 million in 2007. Net income per diluted share was $0.84 versus $0.90 for the first quarter 2007.
The weighted average number of diluted shares outstanding for the first quarter of 2008 totaled 229,661,000 compared to 235,005,000 for the first quarter of 2007. The decline in outstanding shares is the result of the company’s share repurchase program under which approximately 1.5 million shares were repurchased during the first quarter of 2008 as well as 4.8 million shares repurchased during 2007. See Part II, Item 2 for information on share repurchases.
Liquidity, Capital Resources, Financial Position, and Statements of Cash Flows
The company’s cash flow from operating activities was $337.9 million for the first quarter of 2008, compared to $386.4 million in 2007. The decrease reflects lower publishing and broadcast earnings and related cash flow from those operations.
Cash flows from the company’s investing activities totaled $20.1 million for the three months of 2008, reflecting $63.9 million of proceeds from the sale of assets and $9.2 million of proceeds from investments. These cash inflows were partially offset by $28.3 million of capital spending, $11.1 million of payments for acquisitions (discussed in Note 4 to the financial statements), and $13.6 million for investments.
Cash flows used in financing activities totaled $269.1 million for the first three months of 2008 reflecting net debt repayments of $118.1 million, the payment of dividends totaling $92.4 million and the repurchase of common stock of $57.8 million. The company’s regular quarterly dividend of $0.40 per share, which was declared in the first quarter of 2008, totaled $91.7 million and was paid in April 2008.
On July 25, 2006, the Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of an additional $1 billion of the company’s common stock. The shares will be repurchased at management’s discretion, either in the open market or in privately negotiated block transactions. Management’s decision to repurchase shares will depend on price, availability and other corporate developments. Purchases will occur from time to time and no maximum purchase price has been set. As of March 30, 2008, the company had remaining authority to repurchase up to $0.8 billion of the company’s common stock. For more information on the share repurchase program, refer to Item 2 of Part II of this Form 10-Q.
On April 2, 2007, the company paid the $700 million aggregate principal amount of 5.50% notes and accrued interest that was due. This payment was funded by borrowings at the end of the first quarter in the commercial paper market and investment of the proceeds of $525 million in marketable securities. On April 2, 2007, the company liquidated the marketable securities and made the $700 million debt payment.
In June 2007, the company issued $1.0 billion aggregate principal amount of unsecured senior convertible notes in an underwritten public offering. Proceeds from the notes were used to repay commercial paper obligations. The convertible notes bear interest at a floating rate equal to one month LIBOR, reset monthly, minus twenty-three basis points. The holder can convert these notes into cash and shares of the company’s common stock, if any, prior to maturity, subject to the company’s option to deliver cash in lieu of shares. The company may redeem all or some of the convertible notes for cash at any time on or after July 15, 2008 at 100% of their principal amount plus any accrued and unpaid interest. On July 15, 2008, 2009, 2012, 2017, 2022, 2027 and 2032, or upon the occurrence of a change in control, the holders of the convertible notes may require the company to repurchase the convertible notes for cash at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the notes submitted for repurchase, plus any accrued and unpaid interest.

 

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The company expects the holders of some or all of the $1.0 billion unsecured senior convertible notes to require the company to repurchase the notes in July 2008. In addition, the company’s $500 million unsecured notes bearing interest at 4.125% will mature in June 2008. The company currently expects to issue commercial paper to settle the anticipated repurchase of the convertible notes as well as the scheduled maturity of the 4.125% notes.
The company’s operations have historically generated strong positive cash flow which, along with the company’s program of issuing commercial paper and maintaining bank revolving credit agreements, has provided adequate liquidity to meet the company’s requirements, including those for acquisitions.
The company regularly issues commercial paper for cash requirements and maintains revolving credit agreements equal to or in excess of any commercial paper outstanding. The company’s commercial paper is rated A-2 and P-2 by Standard & Poor’s (S&P) and Moody’s Investors Service, respectively. The company’s senior unsecured long-term debt is rated A- by S&P and A3 by Moody’s Investors Service. On April 22, 2008, S&P put the company’s A- long-term credit rating under review for a possible downgrade while affirming the A-2 rating on the company’s commercial paper.
The company has an effective universal shelf registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission under which an unspecified amount of securities may be issued. Proceeds from any takedowns off the shelf will be used for general corporate purposes, including capital expenditures, working capital, securities repurchase programs, repayment of debt and the financing of acquisitions.
The company’s foreign currency translation adjustment, included in accumulated other comprehensive income and reported as part of shareholders’ equity, totaled $773.1 million at the end of the first quarter 2008 versus $777.1 million at the end of 2007. This change reflects a slight decrease in the exchange rate for British Pound Sterling. Newsquest’s assets and liabilities at March 30, 2008 and December 30, 2007 were translated from Sterling to U.S. dollars at an exchange rate of approximately 2.00. For the first quarter of 2008, Newsquest’s financial results were translated at an average rate of 1.98, compared to 1.95 for 2007.
The company is exposed to foreign exchange rate risk primarily due to its operations in the United Kingdom, for which Sterling is the functional currency. If the price of Sterling against the U.S. dollar had been 10% more or less than the actual price, reported net income for the first quarter of 2008 would have increased or decreased approximately 3%.
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. The company is 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 the company’s 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) an economic downturn in some or all of the company’s principal publishing or broadcasting markets leading to decreased circulation or local, national or classified advertising; (c) a decline in general publishing readership and/or advertiser patterns as a result of competitive alternative media or other factors; (d) an increase in newsprint or syndication programming costs over the levels anticipated; (e) labor disputes which may cause revenue declines or increased labor costs; (f) acquisitions of new businesses or dispositions of existing businesses; (g) a decline in viewership of major networks and local news programming; (h) rapid technological changes and frequent new product introductions prevalent in electronic publishing; (i) an increase in interest rates; (j) a weakening in the Sterling to U.S. dollar exchange rate; (k) volatility in financial and credit markets which could affect the value of retirement plan assets and the company’s ability to raise funds through debt or equity issuances; (1) changes in the regulatory environment; (m) an other than temporary decline in operating results and enterprise value that could lead to non-cash goodwill and/or other intangible asset impairment charges; and (n) general economic, political and business conditions.

 

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CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
Gannett Co., Inc. and Subsidiaries

In thousands of dollars (except per share amounts)
                 
    Mar. 30, 2008     Dec. 30, 2007  
    (Unaudited)        
 
               
ASSETS
               
Current assets
               
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 166,086     $ 77,249  
Trade receivables, less allowance for doubtful receivables
(2008 - $36,418; 2007 - $36,772)
    868,941       956,523  
Other Receivables
    49,063       92,660  
Inventories
    108,209       97,086  
Deferred income taxes
    28,470       28,470  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
    93,177       91,267  
 
               
 
           
Total current assets
    1,313,946       1,343,255  
 
           
 
               
Property, plant and equipment
               
Cost
    4,925,371       4,921,877  
Less accumulated depreciation
    (2,348,956 )     (2,306,207 )
 
               
 
           
Net property, plant and equipment
    2,576,415       2,615,670  
 
           
 
               
Intangible and other assets
               
Goodwill
    10,041,012       10,034,943  
Indefinite-lived and amortizable intangible assets, less accumulated amortization
    726,250       735,461  
Investments and other assets
    1,140,537       1,158,398  
 
               
 
           
Total intangible and other assets
    11,907,799       11,928,802  
 
           
 
               
Total assets
  $ 15,798,160     $ 15,887,727  
 
           
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

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CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
Gannett Co., Inc. and Subsidiaries

In thousands of dollars (except per share amounts)
                 
    Mar. 30, 2008     Dec. 30, 2007  
    (Unaudited)        
 
               
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
Current liabilities
               
Accounts payable and current portion of film contracts payable
  $ 245,938     $ 257,393  
Compensation, interest and other accruals
    381,831       407,245  
Dividends payable
    91,895       93,050  
Income taxes
    62,371       24,301  
Deferred income
    165,282       180,174  
 
               
 
           
Total current liabilities
    947,317       962,163  
 
           
 
               
Deferred income taxes
    694,113       696,112  
Income taxes
    327,472       319,778  
Long-term debt
    3,980,282       4,098,338  
Postretirement medical and life insurance liabilities
    212,627       216,988  
Other long-term liabilities
    558,764       556,910  
 
               
 
           
Total liabilities
    6,720,575       6,850,289  
 
           
 
               
Minority interests in consolidated subsidiaries
    18,995       20,279  
 
           
 
               
Shareholders’ equity
               
Preferred stock of $1 par value per share
Authorized: 2,000,000 shares; Issued: none
           
Common stock of $1 par value per share
Authorized: 800,000,000 shares;
Issued: 324,418,632 shares
    324,419       324,419  
Additional paid-in capital
    728,377       721,205  
Retained earnings
    13,119,769       13,019,143  
Accumulated other comprehensive income
    421,832       430,891  
 
               
 
           
 
    14,594,397       14,495,658  
 
           
 
               
Less treasury stock, 95,732,634 shares and 94,216,075 shares, respectively, at cost
    (5,535,807 )     (5,478,499 )
 
               
 
           
Total shareholders’ equity
    9,058,590       9,017,159  
 
           
 
               
Total liabilities, minority interests and shareholders’ equity
  $ 15,798,160     $ 15,887,727  
 
           
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

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CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Gannett Co., Inc. and Subsidiaries
Unaudited, in thousands of dollars (except per share amounts)
                         
    Thirteen Weeks Ended     % Inc  
    March 30, 2008     April 1, 2007     (Dec)  
Net Operating Revenues:
                       
Publishing advertising
  $ 1,096,894     $ 1,221,627       (10.2 )
Publishing circulation
    309,178       317,535       (2.6 )
Broadcasting
    170,180       183,059       (7.0 )
All other
    100,617       108,993       (7.7 )
 
                 
Total
    1,676,869       1,831,214       (8.4 )
 
                 
 
                       
Operating Expenses:
                       
Cost of sales and operating expenses, exclusive of depreciation
    986,500       1,057,936       (6.8 )
Selling, general and administrative expenses, exclusive of depreciation
    294,896       320,521       (8.0 )
Depreciation
    59,602       62,185       (4.2 )
Amortization of intangible assets
    8,240       8,855       (6.9 )
 
                 
Total
    1,349,238       1,449,497       (6.9 )
 
                 
Operating income
    327,631       381,717       (14.2 )
 
                 
 
                       
Non-operating (expense) income:
                       
Equity income (losses) in unconsolidated investees, net
    (11,755 )     (1,480 )     ***  
Interest expense
    (48,549 )     (72,945 )     (33.4 )
Other non-operating items
    24,151       (38 )     ***  
 
                 
Total
    (36,153 )     (74,463 )     (51.4 )
 
                 
 
                       
Income before income taxes
    291,478       307,254       (5.1 )
Provision for income taxes
    99,700       100,900       (1.2 )
 
                 
Income from continuing operations
  $ 191,778     $ 206,354       (7.1 )
 
                 
 
                       
Income from the operation of discontinued operations, net of tax
          4,258       ***  
 
                 
Net Income
  $ 191,778     $ 210,612       (8.9 )
 
                 
 
                       
Earnings from continuing operations per share — basic
  $ 0.84     $ 0.88       (4.5 )
Discontinued operations per share — basic
          0.02       ***  
 
                 
Net Income per share — basic
  $ 0.84     $ 0.90       (6.7 )
 
                 
 
                       
Earnings from continuing operations per share — diluted
  $ 0.84     $ 0.88       (4.5 )
Discontinued operations per share — diluted
          0.02       ***  
 
                 
Net Income per share — diluted
  $ 0.84     $ 0.90       (6.7 )
 
                 
 
                       
Dividends per share
  $ 0.40     $ 0.31       29.0  
 
                 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

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

Unaudited, in thousands of dollars
                 
    Thirteen weeks ended  
    Mar. 30, 2008     Apr. 1, 2007  
Cash flows from operating activities:
               
Net Income
  $ 191,778     $ 210,612  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to operating cash flows
               
Depreciation and amortization
    67,842       72,426  
Pension expense, net of pension contributions
    11,100       16,119  
Equity (income) losses in unconsolidated investees, net
    11,755       1,480  
Stock-based compensation
    7,429       13,586  
Other net, including asset sale gains and changes in other assets and liabilities
    48,044       72,183  
 
               
 
           
Net cash flow from operating activities
    337,948       386,406  
 
           
 
               
Cash flows from investing activities:
               
Purchase of property, plant and equipment
    (28,344 )     (28,766 )
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired
    (11,095 )     (11,504 )
Payments for investments
    (13,550 )     (12,531 )
Proceeds from investments
    9,214       8,106  
Proceeds from sale of assets
    63,860       9,558  
Purchase of investments in marketable securities
          (524,844 )
 
               
 
           
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities
    20,085       (559,981 )
 
           
 
               
Cash flows from financing activities:
               
(Payments of) proceeds from unsecured promissory notes
    (118,056 )     272,227  
Dividends paid
    (92,394 )     (72,763 )
Cost of common shares repurchased
    (57,778 )     (7,225 )
Proceeds from issuance of common stock
          6,990  
Distributions to minority interest in consolidated partnerships
    (920 )     (835 )
 
               
 
           
Net cash (used for) provided by financing activities
    (269,148 )     198,394  
 
           
 
               
Effect of currency rate change
    (48 )     346  
 
           
 
               
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
    88,837       25,165  
Balance of cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
    77,249       94,256  
 
               
 
           
Balance of cash and cash equivalents at end of period
  $ 166,086     $ 119,421  
 
           
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
March 30, 2008
NOTE 1 — Basis of presentation
The 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. The financial statements covering the thirteen week period ended March 30, 2008, and the comparable period of 2007, reflect all adjustments which, in the opinion of the company, are necessary for a fair statement of results for the interim periods and reflect all normal and recurring adjustments which are necessary for a fair presentation of the company’s financial position, results of operations and cash flows as of the dates and for the periods presented.
In connection with the May 2007 sale of the Norwich (CT) Bulletin; the Rockford (IL) Register Star; the Observer-Dispatch in Utica, NY; and The Herald-Dispatch in Huntington, WV to GateHouse Media, Inc. and the contribution of the Chronicle-Tribune in Marion, IN to the Gannett Foundation, the results for these publishing businesses are presented in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income as discontinued operations. During the first quarter of 2008 and as of March 30, 2008, there were no results of operations or net assets related to these discontinued operations. Amounts applicable to the discontinued operations, which have been reclassified in the Statements of Income, are as follows:
         
    Thirteen Weeks  
    ended  
(in millions of dollars)   April 1, 2007  
Revenues
  $ 29.2  
Pretax income
  $ 7.0  
Net income
  $ 4.3  
NOTE 2 — Recently issued accounting standards
In March 2008, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133” (SFAS No. 161). SFAS No. 161 amends and expands the disclosure requirements of SFAS No. 133 with the intent to provide users of financial statements with an enhanced understanding of: (i) How and why an entity uses derivative instruments; (ii) How derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under SFAS No. 133 and its related interpretations and (iii) How derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance and cash flows. This statement is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008, with early application encouraged. The company is in the process of evaluating the impact of SFAS No. 161 on its Consolidated Financial Statements.
On December 4, 2007 the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 141 (revised 2007), “Business Combinations” (SFAS No. 141(R)) and No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements, an amendment of ARB No. 51” (SFAS No. 160). SFAS No. 141(R) and SFAS No. 160 are effective for the beginning of fiscal year 2009. SFAS No. 141(R) will change how business acquisitions are accounted for and will impact financial statements both on the acquisition date and in subsequent periods. SFAS No. 160 will change the accounting and reporting for minority interest, which will be recharacterized as noncontrolling interests and classified as a component of equity. Management is in the process of studying the impact of these standards on the company’s financial accounting and reporting.
In September 2006, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (SFAS No. 157) which is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. The company adopted SFAS No. 157 at the beginning of 2008. SFAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in GAAP, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. Refer to Note 10 for information regarding the company’s fair value measurements. In November 2007, the FASB agreed to a one-year deferral of the effective date for nonfinancial assets and liabilities that are recognized or disclosed at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. The company is currently assessing the impact of adopting the deferred portion of the pronouncement.

 

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NOTE 3 — Equity based awards
Stock-based compensation
For the quarters ended March 30, 2008 and April 1, 2007, options were granted for 773,200 and 773,100 shares, respectively. The following weighted average assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of those options.
                 
    First Quarter  
    2008     2007  
 
               
Average expected term
  4.5 years   4.5 years
Expected volatility
    18.36%       17.80%  
Risk-free interest rates
    2.92%       4.52%  
Expected dividend yield
    4.20%       2.07%  
For the first quarter 2008, the company recorded stock-based compensation expense of $7.4 million, consisting of $4.5 million for nonqualified stock options and $2.9 million for restricted shares. The related tax benefit for stock compensation was $2.8 million. On an after tax basis, total stock compensation expense was $4.6 million or $0.02 per share.
For the first quarter of 2007, the company recorded stock-based compensation expense of $13.6 million, consisting of $9.9 million for nonqualified stock options and $3.7 million for restricted shares (including shares issuable under the long-term incentive program). The related tax benefit for stock compensation expense was $5.2 million. On an after tax basis, total stock compensation expense was $8.4 million or $0.04 per share.
During the quarter ended March 30, 2008, no options were exercised.
During the quarter ended April 1, 2007, options for 125,326 shares of common stock were exercised. The company received $7.0 million of cash from the exercise of these options. The intrinsic value of the options exercised was approximately $0.8 million. The actual tax benefit realized from the tax deductions from the options exercised was $0.3 million.
Option exercises are satisfied through the issuance of shares from treasury stock.
A summary of the status of the company’s stock option awards as of March 30, 2008 and changes thereto during 2008 is presented below:
                                 
                    Weighted        
                    Average        
            Weighted     Remaining        
            Average     Contractual     Aggregate  
    Shares     Exercise Price     Term (in years)     Intrinsic Value  
Outstanding at beginning of year
    27,933,353     $ 70.88                  
Granted
    773,200       32.13                  
Canceled/Expired
    (413,762 )     74.14                  
 
                           
Outstanding at quarter end
    28,292,791     $ 69.77       4.65     $  
 
                           
 
                               
Options exercisable at quarter end
    23,648,506     $ 73.12       4.26     $  

 

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Restricted stock
In addition to stock options, the company issues stock-based compensation in the form of restricted stock. Restricted stock is an award of common stock that is subject to restrictions and such other terms and conditions as the Executive Compensation Committee determines. These awards entitle an employee to receive shares of common stock at the end of a four-year incentive period conditioned on continued employment. Compensation expense for restricted stock is recognized for the awards that are expected to vest. The expense is based on the fair value of the awards on the date of grant and is generally recognized on a straight-line basis over the four-year incentive period.
The company has also issued restricted stock to its Board of Directors. Upon each annual meeting of shareholders, each director receives a long-term award of 1,250 shares of restricted stock or options to purchase 5,000 shares of stock. The restricted stock awards vest over three years and expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period based on the fair value of the restricted stock on the date of grant. The options generally vest at 25% per year beginning on the first anniversary date of the grant date and expense is recognized over the four-year vesting period.
Additionally, directors may elect to receive their annual fees in restricted stock or options in lieu of cash. These shares or options generally vest at 25% per quarter after the grant date. Expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the twelve- month board year for which the fees are paid based on the fair value of the stock award on the date of grant.
Directors may also elect to receive their meeting fees in restricted stock or options in lieu of cash. Restricted stock or options issued as compensation for meeting fees are issued at the end of the board year during which the fees were earned and fully vests on the date of grant. Expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the course of the board year.
All shares of restricted stock in which the directors vest are held by the company for the benefit of the directors until their retirement, at which time vested shares are delivered to the Directors.
A summary of the status of the restricted stock awards as of March 30, 2008 and changes during 2008 is presented below:
                 
            Weighted  
            Average Fair  
    Shares     Value  
Restricted stock outstanding and unvested at beginning of year
    1,041,222     $ 47.89  
Granted
    28,200       32.59  
Vested
    (3,507 )     58.53  
Canceled
    (10,846 )     53.45  
 
           
Restricted stock outstanding and unvested at quarter end
    1,055,069     $ 47.39  
 
           
Long-term incentive program
In February 2006, the company adopted a three-year strategic long-term incentive program, or LTIP. Through the use of the LTIP, the company desires to motivate its key executives to drive success in new businesses while continuing to achieve success in our core businesses. Twenty-three senior executives have been designated to participate in the LTIP. Based on current expectations of program target achievement, the company has recorded total expense for the LTIP of $0.9 million in the first quarter of 2008. The company recorded total expense of $1.8 million in the first quarter of 2007.

 

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NOTE 4 — Acquisitions, investments and dispositions
On December 31, 2007, the company acquired X.com, Inc. (BNQT.com). X.com, Inc. operates an action sports digital network covering eight different action sports including surfing, snowboarding and skateboarding. X.com will be affiliated with the USA TODAY Sports brand. This acquisition was not material to our results of operations or financial condition.
In February 2008, the company made an investment in quadrantONE, a new digital ad sales network owned by Gannett and three other top media companies: Tribune Company, Hearst Corporation and The New York Times Company.
In March 2008, the company made an investment in Fantasy Sports Ventures (FSV), for a minority ownership stake. FSV owns a set of fantasy sports content sites and manages advertising across a network of affiliated sites.
In April 2007, the company disposed of a parcel of real estate located adjacent to its corporate headquarters in McLean, Virginia. In accordance with the installment method of accounting under SFAS No. 66, “Accounting for Sales of Real Estate”, a portion of the gain was recognized in other non-operating income during the second quarter of 2007. The remaining gain of $25.5 million was deferred and recognized in the first quarter of 2008.
The financial statements reflect an allocation of purchase price that is preliminary for acquisitions subsequent to April 1, 2007.
NOTE 5 — Goodwill and other intangible assets
The following table displays goodwill, indefinite-lived intangible assets, and amortizable intangible assets at March 30, 2008 and December 30, 2007.
                                 
    March 30, 2008     December 30, 2007  
            Accumulated             Accumulated  
(in thousands of dollars)   Gross     Amortization     Gross     Amortization  
 
                               
Goodwill
  $ 10,041,012     $     $ 10,034,943     $  
Indefinite-lived intangibles:
                               
Mastheads and trade names
    247,530             248,501        
Television station FCC licenses
    255,304             255,304        
Amortizable intangible assets:
                               
Customer relationships
    307,114       117,284       307,114       110,491  
Other
    48,222       14,636       48,222       13,189  
Amortization expense was $8.2 million in the first quarter of 2008 and $8.9 million for the first quarter of 2007. Customer relationships, which include subscriber lists and advertiser relationships, are amortized on a straight-line basis over four to 25 years. Other intangibles include commercial printing relationships, internally developed technology and other assets. These assets were assigned lives of between 2.5 and 15 years and are amortized on a straight-line basis.
                         
(in thousands of dollars)   Publishing     Broadcasting     Total  
Goodwill
                       
Balance at Dec. 30, 2007
  $ 8,415,891     $ 1,619,052     $ 10,034,943  
Acquisitions and adjustments
    9,661             9,661  
Dispositions
    (137 )           (137 )
Foreign currency exchange rate changes
    (3,314 )     (141 )     (3,455 )
 
                 
Balance at March 30, 2008
  $ 8,422,101     $ 1,618,911     $ 10,041,012  
 
                 
Goodwill increased primarily due to the 2008 acquisition of BNQT.com and final payment to the former owners of PointRoll under the terms of that acquisition agreement. This increase was partially offset by a decrease in the foreign exchange rate at March 30, 2008 as compared to December 30, 2007.

 

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NOTE 6 — Retirement plans
The company and its subsidiaries have various retirement plans, including plans established under collective bargaining agreements, under which most full-time employees are covered. The Gannett Retirement Plan is the company’s principal retirement plan and covers most U.S. employees of the company and its subsidiaries.
The company’s pension costs, which include costs for qualified, nonqualified and union plans, for the first quarter of 2008 and 2007, are presented in the following table:
                 
    First Quarter  
(in millions of dollars)   2008     2007  
 
               
Service cost-benefits earned during the period
  $ 23.8     $ 26.6  
Interest cost on benefit obligation
    53.6       49.2  
Expected return on plan assets
    (70.6 )     (67.8 )
Amortization of prior service credit
    (5.2 )     (4.8 )
Amortization of actuarial loss
    7.9       10.9  
 
               
 
           
Pension expense for company-sponsored retirement plans
    9.5       14.1  
 
               
Union and other pension cost
    1.8       2.0  
 
           
 
               
Pension cost
  $ 11.3     $ 16.1  
 
           

 

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NOTE 7 — Postretirement benefits other than pension
The company provides health care and life insurance benefits to certain retired employees who meet age and service requirements. Most of the company’s retirees contribute to the cost of these benefits and retiree contributions are increased as actual benefit costs increase. The company’s policy is to fund benefits as claims and premiums are paid. Postretirement benefit costs for health care and life insurance for the first quarter of 2008 and 2007 are presented in the following table:
                 
    First Quarter  
(in millions of dollars)   2008     2007  
 
               
Service cost-benefits earned during the period
  $ 0.5     $ 0.5  
Interest cost on benefit obligation
    3.5       3.4  
Amortization of prior service credit
    (3.9 )     (3.9 )
Amortization of actuarial loss
    1.2       1.3  
 
           
Net periodic postretirement benefit cost
  $ 1.3     $ 1.3  
 
           
NOTE 8 — Income taxes
The company adopted the provisions of FASB Interpretation No. 48 “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” (FIN No. 48) on January 1, 2007.
The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate was approximately $182 million as of December 30, 2007 and $186 million as of the end of the first quarter of 2008. This amount reflects the federal tax benefit of state tax deductions. Excluding the federal tax benefit of state tax deductions, the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits as of December 30, 2007 was $264 million and as of March 30, 2008 was $267 million. The $3 million net increase reflects a reduction for prior year tax positions and a reduction for lapses of statutes of limitations totaling $4 million, and additions in the current year of $7 million.
The company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense. The company also recognizes interest income attributable to overpayment of income taxes as a component of income tax expense. The company recognized interest expense (income) of $3 million and $(3) million during the first quarter of 2008 and 2007, respectively. The amount of net accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain tax benefits as of December 30, 2007 was approximately $83 million and as of March 30, 2008, was approximately $88 million.
The company files income tax returns in the U.S. and various state and foreign jurisdictions. The 2005 through 2007 tax years remain subject to examination by the IRS. The IRS has commenced examination of the company’s 2005 and 2006 U.S. income tax returns, and this examination is expected to be completed in 2009. The 2004 through 2007 tax years generally remain subject to examination by state authorities, and the years 2003-2007 are subject to examination in the U.K. In addition, tax years prior to 2004 remain subject to examination by certain states primarily due to the filing of amended tax returns upon settlement of the IRS examination for these years and due to ongoing audits.
It is reasonably possible that the amount of the 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, the company estimates that the amount of its gross unrecognized tax positions may decrease by up to approximately $50 million within the next 12 months primarily due to lapses of statutes of limitations in various jurisdictions and potential settlements of ongoing audits and negotiations.

 

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NOTE 9 — Comprehensive income
The table below presents the components of comprehensive income for the first quarter of 2008 and 2007.
                 
    First Quarter  
(in thousands of dollars)   2008     2007  
 
               
Net income
  $ 191,778     $ 210,612  
Other comprehensive (loss) income
    (9,059 )     21,326  
 
               
 
           
Comprehensive income
  $ 182,719     $ 231,938  
 
           
Other comprehensive income consists primarily of foreign currency translation, mark-to-market adjustments on the interest rate swaps and pension adjustments.
NOTE 10 — Fair value measurement
The company measures and records in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements certain assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis. SFAS No. 157 establishes a fair value hierarchy for those instruments measured at fair value that distinguishes between assumptions based on 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 estimates and assumptions developed by the company, which reflect those that a market participant would use.
The following table summarizes the financial instruments measured at fair value in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet as of March 30, 2008 (in thousands):
                                 
    Fair Value Measurements as of  
    March 30, 2008  
    Level 1     Level 2     Level 3     Total  
Assets
                               
Deferred compensation related investments
  $ 42,319     $     $     $ 42,319  
Sundry investments
  $ 26,149     $     $     $ 26,149  
 
                               
Liabilities
                               
Interest rate swaps
  $     $ 21,880     $     $ 21,880  

 

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NOTE 11 — Business segment information
The company has determined that its reportable segments based on its management and internal reporting structures are publishing, which is the largest segment of its operations, and broadcasting.
Broadcasting includes results from the company’s 23 television stations and Captivate Network, Inc. Captivate is a national news and entertainment network that delivers programming and full motion video advertising through wireless digital video screens in elevators of premier office towers and in select hotels across North America.
                         
Excluding discontinued operations   Thirteen weeks ended     % Inc  
(unaudited, in thousands of dollars)   March 30, 2008     April 1, 2007     (Dec)  
Net Operating Revenues:
                       
Publishing
  $ 1,506,689     $ 1,648,155       (8.6 )
Broadcasting
    170,180       183,059       (7.0 )
 
                 
Total
  $ 1,676,869     $ 1,831,214       (8.4 )
 
                 
 
                       
Operating Income (net of depreciation and amortization):
                       
Publishing
  $ 285,532     $ 340,608       (16.2 )
Broadcasting
    57,805       64,162       (9.9 )
Corporate
    (15,706 )     (23,053 )     31.9  
 
                 
Total
  $ 327,631     $ 381,717       (14.2 )
 
                 
 
                       
Depreciation and Amortization:
                       
Publishing
  $ 55,379     $ 58,311       (5.0 )
Broadcasting
    8,495       8,723       (2.6 )
Corporate
    3,968       4,006       (0.9 )
 
                 
Total
  $ 67,842     $ 71,040       (4.5 )
 
                 

 

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NOTE 12 — Earnings per share
The company’s earnings per share (basic and diluted) for the quarters March 30, 2008 and April 1, 2007 are presented below:
                 
    Thirteen weeks ended  
(in thousands except per share amounts)   March 30, 2008     April 1, 2007  
Income from continuing operations
  $ 191,778     $ 206,354  
 
               
Income from the operation of discontinued operations, net of tax
          4,258  
 
           
Net income
  $ 191,778     $ 210,612  
 
           
 
               
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding — basic
    229,219       234,585  
Effect of dilutive securities
               
Stock options
    213       319  
Restricted stock
    229       101  
 
           
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding — diluted
    229,661       235,005  
 
           
 
               
Earnings from continuing operations per share — basic
  $ 0.84     $ 0.88  
 
               
Discontinued operations per share — basic
          0.02  
 
           
Net income per share — basic
  $ 0.84     $ 0.90  
 
           
 
               
Earnings from continuing operations per share — diluted
  $ 0.84     $ 0.88  
 
               
Discontinued operations per share — diluted
          0.02  
 
           
Net income per share — diluted
  $ 0.84     $ 0.90  
 
           

 

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NOTE 13 Litigation
On December 31, 2003, two employees of the company’s television station KUSA in Denver filed a class action lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado against Gannett and the Gannett Retirement Plan (Plan) on behalf of themselves and other similarly situated individuals who participated in the Plan after January 1, 1998, the date that certain amendments to the Plan took effect. The complaint was amended to add a third plaintiff. The plaintiffs allege, among other things, that the current pension plan formula adopted in that amendment violated the age discrimination accrual provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act. The plaintiffs seek to have their post-1997 benefits recalculated and seek other equitable relief. The court has granted the plaintiffs’ motion to certify a class. Gannett believes that it has valid defenses to the issues raised in the complaint and will defend itself vigorously. Due to the uncertainties of judicial determinations, however, it is not possible at this time to predict the outcome of this matter with respect to liability or damages, if any.
The company and a number of its subsidiaries are defendants in other judicial and administrative proceedings involving matters incidental to their business. The company’s management does not believe that any material liability will be imposed as a result of these matters.
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
The company believes that its market risk from financial instruments, such as accounts receivable, accounts payable and debt, is not material. The company is exposed to foreign exchange rate risk primarily due to its operations in the United Kingdom, which use the British pound as their functional currency, which is then translated into U.S. dollars. Translation gains or losses affecting the consolidated statements of Income have not been significant in the past. A 10% change in the price of Sterling against the U.S. dollar would change reported net income for the first quarter of 2008 by approximately 3%.
Because the company has $717 million in commercial paper obligations that have relatively short-term maturity dates and $1.0 billion of floating rate convertible notes at March 30, 2008, the company is subject to changes in the amount of interest expense it might incur. Assuming the current level of commercial paper borrowings of $717 million and $1.0 billion of floating rate notes, a 1/2% increase or decrease in the average interest rate for those obligations would result in an increase or decrease in annual interest expense of $8.6 million.
The fair value of the company’s total long-term debt, determined based on quoted market prices for similar issues of debt with the same remaining maturities and similar terms, totaled $3.99 billion at March 30, 2008.
Item 4. Controls and Procedures
Based on their evaluation, the company’s Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer and Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer have concluded the company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of March 30, 2008, to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that the company files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is 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 the company’s internal controls or in other factors during the fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal controls over financial reporting.

 

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PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
                                 
                    (c) Total Number        
                    of Shares     (d) Approximate  
    (a) Total             Purchased as Part     Dollar Value of Shares  
    Number of     (b) Average     of Publicly     that May Yet Be  
    Shares     Price Paid per     Announced     Purchased Under the  
Period   Purchased     Share     Program     Program  
12/31/07 - 2/03/08
    595,300     $ 37.79       595,300     $ 859,203,527  
 
                               
2/04/08 - 3/02/08
    486,200     $ 32.91       486,200     $ 843,204,113  
 
                               
3/03/08 - 3/30/08
    655,300     $ 29.43       655,300     $ 823,921,769  
 
                               
Total
    1,736,800     $ 33.27       1,736,800     $ 823,921,769  
All of the shares included in column (c) of the table above were repurchased under the remaining $1 billion authorization announced on July 25, 2006. There is no expiration date for the repurchase program. No repurchase program expired during the periods presented above and management does not intend to terminate the repurchase program. All shares repurchased were part of the publicly announced repurchase program.
Item 6. Exhibits
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibit Index attached hereto and made a part hereof.

 

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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: April 30, 2008  GANNETT CO., INC.
 
 
  /s/George R. Gavagan    
  Vice President and Controller   
  (on behalf of Registrant and as Chief Accounting Officer)   
 

 

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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
  By-laws of Gannett Co., Inc.   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to Gannett Co., Inc.’s Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended July 1, 2007.
 
       
3-3
  Form of Certificate of Designation, Preferences and Rights setting forth the terms of the Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $1.00 per share, of Gannett Co., Inc.   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1 to Gannett Co., Inc.’s Form 8-A filed on May 23, 1990.
 
       
4-1
  Rights Agreement, dated as of May 21, 1990, between Gannett Co., Inc. and First Chicago Trust Company of New York, as Rights Agent.   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1 to Gannett Co., Inc.’s Form 8-A filed on May 23, 1990.
 
       
4-2
  Amendment No. 1 to Rights Agreement, dated as of May 2, 2000, between Gannett Co., Inc. and Norwest Bank Minnesota, N.A., as successor rights agent to First Chicago Trust Company of New York.   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2 to Gannett Co., Inc.’s Form 8-A/A filed on May 2, 2000.
 
       
4-3
  Form of Rights Certificate.   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1 to Gannett Co., Inc.’s Form 8-A filed on May 23, 1990.
 
       
4-4
  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.
 
       
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.
The company agrees 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 which does not exceed 10% of the total consolidated assets of the company.

 

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