I have heard from several newsagents that their neighbouring newsagents have allegedly been told by publisher representatives that they have signed new newspaper home delivery contracts. The allegation is that this information has been put in terms of well they have signed, you should too. It has also been used to say, if you don’t sign they can take your territory and give it to them.
While I cannot verify if the allegation is true, I’d note that three separate (and unconnected) newsagents have shared their stories with me. I cannot imagine any publisher condoning such activity.
If true, such a disclosure about someone else signing a contract would be a breach of privacy. The challenge is how do you act on this?
The stress around the new contracts is not yet over for some newsagents.
I’ve also been told by my neighbouring newsagent that I’ve signed my contract and it’s sitting on QNP’s desk. That’s quite funny because the contract (incorrectly sent to me – according to R.R.) is still sitting in my “don’t bother” tray.
There are two things that is concerning me –
1. What is the legality of this action? I don’t know. It would be something for my solicitor to advise me on.
2. Why would they send me a new contract (and send letters reminding me to sign otherwise …) when my existing contract has another year to go?
I wonder how many more QLD newsagents received their contract “incorrectly”?