“Morose” economic conditions of the press industry are possibly the reason why Switzerland's publisher Edipresse Suisse made CHF10 million less than expected in 2008. Revenue figures have dropped by a total of CHF9 million over the last three years, 24 Heures reported.

Edipresse announced 25 job layoffs so far. The general staff would also be reorganised, with Eric Hoesli, former regional publication director, and Peter Rothenbühler, Matin's previous chief editor, taking over print titles.

The publisher is predicted to save CHF20 million or six percent of its expenses by 2010 and have a “recovery” of CHF15 by the end of next year, wrote 24 Heures.

The Impressum, a trade union, criticised the choice to have job cuts without having first consulted the publications. Furthermore, the union is surprised to see that the moves affect 24 Heures the most, with its nine layoffs.

On a different note, 24 Heures announced a re-launch for October 11 this year, featuring a new Saturday edition.