Discussions have commenced following protests over retail margins
News UK has entered into talks with The Federation of Independent Retailers, following its national protests this week at the publishers offices.
Dozens of members had gathered outside the three sites to protest about News UK’s plans to cut the retail margin on both The Times and the Sun at the same time as the cover prices rise.
During the protest, the Fed’s national president Hetal Patel, national vice president Hemanshu Patel and director of news and operations Brian Murphy were invited inside the building to meet with News UK’s director of retail and wholesale Tracy Hart.
During the 45-minute meeting, the Fed explained the impact that the move would have on members’ viability and the knock-on effect on local communities.
Speaking after the meeting, Hetal Patel said: “The news of the cut in terms was not well received by members which is why we took the decision to hold a peaceful protest outside News UK’s offices in London and Glasgow and at its Knowsley print site. Throughout the meeting, we appealed to News UK to think again and to reverse its decision to cut our percentage retail margin. We explained that members are being squeezed so much, that if publishers are not careful, there will be no retail estate left to sell its products.
“Pro rata terms are necessary if Fed members are to cover increasing overheads. Only by doing this can publishers ensure that independent retailers remain viable as news retailers.”
Mr Patel added: “Ms Hart listened to our concerns and said she would raise them internally with News UK executive officers, ahead of a follow up meeting next week.”
From Monday, July 14, the price of UK weekday editions of the Times will increase to £3.20. However, the new retail margin paid for each copy sold will not take effect until January 2026 and, even then, will drop 1 per cent.
At the same time, all editions of the Sun will rise in price, with Monday to Friday editions increasing to £1.20. The Saturday edition will rise to £1.60 and the Sunday edition to 1.90. The margin on all editions will drop 1 per cent to 20 per cent.
