Future to move titles from TPL

Future Publishing has confirmed that it will move 24 titles out of Kidderminster printer TPL from the beginning of April, following the companys decision to close.

Commercial director Ian Linkins said 17 titles would go to Benhamgoodheadprint (BGP) with nine moving to William Gibbons.

Meanwhile the GPMU has called the decision to close TPL mercenary, and is taking advice on possible legal action against the firm (PrintWeek, 11 March).

GPMU regional officer Tom Lowe said he was disappointed by the decision, resulting in 200 jobs cut.

TPLs owners, Singaporean media group Times Publishing, is due to issue individual notices to employees next week.

This is in breach of the spirit of the 90-day consultation process, and we are currently taking legal advice on this, Lowe said.

A meeting has been scheduled for 25 March, which will see GPMU officials meet with a senior representative from TPLs owners.

Lowe said he would also ask why a prospective management buyout (MBO) was also rejected.

Story by Andy Scott