LEE ENTERPRISES CUTS STAFF BY 1.5%

By: Anthony Crupi Publisher Freezes Hiring, Eliminates Open Positions


(Mediaweek.com) Lee Enterprises Inc. announced Tuesday
that it had eliminated 2.6% of
its non-sales positions in the first five months of 2001, a
restructuring meant to offset the continuing advertising
slowdown.

Speaking from the Mid-Year Media Review in New York, Lee Vice
President, Chief Financial Officer, and Treasurer Carl Schmidt
said the company had "taken significant action with regard to
cost-saving opportunities, moving in January 2001 to freeze
hiring, eliminate open positions, and selectively reduce staff."

"All of these changes translate into a 1.5% reduction in staff
overall," Schmidt said. "At this time, our non-sales positions
are down more than 100, or 2.6%."

The Davenport, Iowa-based publisher expects to save $3.9 million
in the coming fiscal year as a result of the cutbacks, Schmidt
said. Lee had previously announced its intention to make staff
cuts, but Tuesday marked the first time the publisher quantified
the statement.

Lee owns 23 daily newspapers and more than 100 weekly newspapers,
shoppers, and classified and specialty publications, along with
associated online services.



Copyright 2001, Editor & Publisher.