Corus Entertainment, the company that owns the Global Television Network and several radio stations, has announced significant programming adjustments nationwide leading to numerous job cuts. The decision follows Corus facing ongoing challenges with declining advertising revenue and increasing debt.
The union Unifor, which represents numerous media employees, including those at Corus, reported that a total of 43 positions will be eliminated. Unifor’s national president, Lana Payne, expressed concerns over the impact on local news, particularly in Western Canada, due to this move.
The breakdown of job reductions by region includes 28 in Alberta, 2 in British Columbia, 5 in Winnipeg, 2 in Saskatoon, 3 in the Maritimes, and 3 in Ontario. Corus, in an internal memo obtained by CBC News, emphasized the necessity of these changes to ensure operational sustainability and provide increased flexibility.
While some production of Global News broadcasts for Alberta will be consolidated under the plan, Corus confirmed its commitment to continue producing local news content in the province’s studios. Additionally, the company intends to introduce a yet undisclosed number of new positions to support local news coverage.
Scott Roberts, co-anchor of Global Edmonton’s 6 p.m. newscast, shared his disappointment on Instagram about the imminent changes affecting local news coverage. The Western Standard news website initially reported the developments at Corus.
Corus spokesperson Annie Arnone reassured that the company remains dedicated to delivering local news in Calgary and Edmonton despite centralizing production. She mentioned that additional roles will be created to uphold news programming in these markets, with on-air changes expected in the coming weeks.
Corus CEO John Gossling highlighted the persistent challenges in linear television advertising demand that led to double-digit declines in radio and television revenue. The company’s stock value has dropped significantly over the past year, mainly due to financial pressures stemming from its 2016 acquisition of Shaw Media.
The Ontario Superior Court of Justice recently approved a debt-for-equity swap between Corus and its creditors to alleviate the debt burden. This restructuring initiative aims to enhance the company’s financial position and reduce annual interest costs.
The cutbacks at Corus mirror recent layoffs at major competitors like Bell Canada and Rogers Sports & Media. Rogers recently announced the elimination of 230 positions, including the closure of multiple radio stations, while Bell Canada reduced its workforce by nearly 700 jobs last month, following a previous workforce reduction in 2024.