Sports Illustrated (SI) employees received a disheartening email from the publisher, informing them that the company may be forced to lay off a significant portion, if not all, of its staff.
This unfortunate development comes after the license to use the SI brand in both digital and print media was unexpectedly revoked by Authentic Brands Group (ABG), the brand management company.
The email, sent by the Arena Group, which oversees SI, stated, "As a result of this license revocation, we will be laying off staff that work on the SI brand." This news has sent shockwaves through the organization, leaving employees uncertain about their future.
In response to this distressing announcement, the SI Union of workers released a statement expressing their disappointment and concern. They described the current situation as another difficult day in what has been a challenging four years for Sports Illustrated under the Arena Group's management. The union called on ABG to ensure the continued publication of SI and allow it to serve its loyal audience, which it has done for nearly seven decades.
The statement also included a quote from NFL Editor Mitch Goldrich, who emphasized the union's commitment to upholding the standards of this esteemed publication. Goldrich stated, "We have fought together as a union to maintain the standard of this storied publication that we love, and to make sure our workers are treated fairly for the value they bring to this company. It is a fight we will continue."
In addition to their concerns about potential layoffs, the union members expect their contract obligations to be honored. They have been steadfast in their dedication to Sports Illustrated and are hopeful that their hard work and contributions will be recognized and respected.
The Arena Group had acquired the publishing rights for Sports Illustrated from ABG in 2019, with a ten-year agreement in place. However, controversies surrounding the company's use of AI-generated stories and other issues have taken a toll on the brand's reputation and viability.
The repercussions of these controversies have now culminated in the revocation of the license, leaving the future of Sports Illustrated uncertain.
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