Gannett Central Newspapers Acquisition Includes DM Firm

Gannett Co., Inc.’s $2.6 billion acquisition of Central Newspapers Inc. will not only give Gannett control of six newspapers, but will include Carantin & Co., Central Newspapers’ direct marketing group.

The acquisition, under which Gannett will buy all Central Newspapers outstanding Class A stock for $64 per share and Class B stock for $6.40 per share, will also transfer ownership of Central Newspapers’ Internet and technology investment management group, to the Arlington, VA-based newspaper company.

Carantin, a nine-year-old direct marketing firm based in Phoenix, AZ, provides mailing, data processing, laser personalization, database and fulfillment services. Central Newspapers acquired Carantin in January 1999.

The deal is expected to close in the third quarter of this year.