Chicago Tribune
Major daily newspaper serving the Chicago area.
PE-OWNED
Acquired by Alden Global Capital2021-05-01
What Made It Great
Chicago's voice for news, politics, and culture since 1847.
What PE Will Likely Do
The Chicago Tribune newsroom will face significant staff reductions, likely resulting in a decline in the quantity and quality of local news coverage
The Tribune's print edition will be reduced in frequency or eliminated entirely, forcing more readers to pay for digital subscriptions
Investigative journalism teams at the Tribune will likely be cut, reducing the paper's ability to hold local institutions and officials accountable
Content from the Tribune will be consolidated with other Alden-owned media outlets, leading to a homogenization of news coverage and a loss of the Tribune's distinct local voice
Expected Timeline
“0 to 6 months months”
Acquisition announced, promises of 'investment' made, followed by initial rounds of newsroom layoffs and 'restructuring'
“6 to 12 months months”
Print schedule reduced, more content cuts implemented, paywall requirements increased
“12 to 24 months months”
Noticeable decline in quality of local news coverage, reader complaints about loss of in-depth reporting and investigative pieces increase
Similar Cases
Other companies that followed a similar path after PE acquisition
What You Can Do
Actions
Subscribe to the Chicago Tribune's digital edition to support quality local journalism and offset the impact of cost-cutting measures
Follow local news sources and advocacy groups that are monitoring the impact of Alden's acquisition on the Tribune's coverage
Encourage local civic and community organizations to speak out against the potential erosion of the Tribune's role as a watchdog and voice for the city of Chicago
Alternatives
Look for family-owned or employee-owned businesses