I have heard from several newsagents this week who are distressed about the News Limited contracts. It is the all or nothing approach which is causing the most stress.
In two situations put to me the newsagents would like to keep the retail business but discard the small loss making home delivery business. They say that no amount of representation has been able to achieve an outcome which suits. This means they either take everything and lose money or take nothing and hope to negotiate sub agent terms which would mean a break even situation on newspapers.
One understands that emotions are heightened when you consider that for many long term newsagents this is the most fundamental change they have faced in decades. For the first time they are wondering whether to walk away from a core offer which for years has defined their business and their place in the town.
years of service and what do you get take it or leave it?this is the attude we need in an industry body not one of our suppliers