SRG considers moving radio studio from Bern to Zurich
As part of its planned cost-cutting measures, the SRG is considering relocating its radio studio from Schwarztorstrasse in Bern to Leutschenbach in Zurich, as it announced on Wednesday. This would allow radio, TV, and online content to be produced at the same location in the future.
According to the press release, such a merger would bring clear journalistic benefits. Radio information could benefit from the proximity to the specialist TV and online editorial teams in the new newsroom. The editorial offices of the Federal Parliament and the Bern, Fribourg and Valais regional editorial offices would not be affected by any relocations.
The review of the real estate locations is the first step in the CHF 100 million cost-cutting measures that the media company announced following the No Billag vote - despite the ultimately surprisingly clear No to the initiative.
Relocation of the general management?
At the same time as evaluating the locations in German-speaking Switzerland, the aim is to expand reporting in the regions by increasing the number of regional correspondent locations in German-speaking Switzerland. SRG is also considering relocating all or part of the General Management, which is currently rented at Giacomettistrasse in Bern's Ostring, to the building on Schwarztorstrasse that will become vacant.
No decisions have yet been made. SRG will subject all relocation scenarios to an in-depth feasibility and profitability analysis and present its recommendations to the Board of Directors for a decision in due course.
Job cuts also planned
Overall, SRG Director General Gilles Marchand announced cost-cutting measures amounting to CHF 100 million due to the forthcoming reduction in fees from the current CHF 451 to CHF 365 per year and falling advertising revenues.
From next year, the company will save around CHF 80 million in infrastructure, administration, technology, real estate, production processes and distribution. The range of programs should be spared as far as possible.
Where, how and by how much the company management has so far left open. What is clear is that jobs will also be affected. (SDA)
