As reported by Ian Murray on the Society of Editors website:
The publisher says it is taking the steps after seeing rapid growth in subscriptions during the Covid-19 crisis on its five titles already behind a paywall: The News, The Scotsman, The Star, The Gazette and The Newsletter.
Last month regional publisher Newsquest announced it was placing all of its daily titles and 50 of its weekly titles behind paywalls but still providing Covid-19 information for free.
JPIMedia announced it is to roll out its digital subscription model on the sites of seven of its daily titles throughout June and July.
Chief executive David King also revealed three free weeklies which temporarily stopped publication due to the emergency will return from the end of June: MK Citizen, Bedford Times & Citizen, and News Post Leader.
The company will also reverse a 10 per cent pay cut for staff on earnings between £18,000 and £22,500 per annum. However, those earning more £40,000 will continue to see a 15 per cent, as and a 20 per cent cut on the salaries of board members remains.
In a message to staff, King said: “Despite the issues we have faced, we should not lose sight of the notable successes and exceptional creativity that we have delivered during this period.
“Our loyal audience across the group has increased by 23pc year-on-year since January and the overall number of page views has seen a growth of 43pc year-on-year even with the absence of football content, as more people turned to trusted news sources,” he added.
