It was widely reported in sections of yesterday’s trade press that staff in the North West had received a memo from regional MD Jan Lever informing them that pay rates are set to be frozen through to a formal salary review in January 2010.

This was put down to “current trading conditions.”

At present it is unclear whether this is for the North West region alone, or whether the freeze will be nationwide.

Lever had not responded to an enquiry from How-Do at the time of writing.

Furthermore How-Do learnt yesterday evening that all staff are now being offered one week’s unpaid holiday or a cut in working hours - a move that seemingly mirrors the decision made by parent firm Gannett in the US.

It was said that this is currently being offered on a voluntary basis for the majority of staffers, while managers will be required to take a week’s mandatory unpaid holiday.

The company had not confirmed this at the time of writing.

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Comments (3)

1  By John Robertson , on 04-03-2009 10:17 Newsquest North West can save even more money by not darkening my door with the Sale and Altrincham Mesenger! Report

2  By Linda , on 04-03-2009 12:02 Whatever next? They'll be docking their pay for "loo breaks" soon! Report