Categories: OLD Media Moves

FT giving staffers money to buy tablets

Robert Andrews of PaidContent.org reports that the Financial Times is offering a $480 rebate to its staffers if they purchase a tablet such as an iPad.

Andrews reports, “The FT, which has its own app on iPad and Samsung Galaxy Tab, wants to encourage the tablet reading habit in its own staff first. It means a potential bill of £540,000 or $864,000. Even staff who already own a tablet will get the payout. Seems like one way to spend this year’s bonuses, and will do no harm to the FT’s tablet reader count.

“Here is FT Group CEO John Ridding’s memo to staff…

‘I’m pleased to let you know that we are launching today a new initiative that will allow FT staff to claim a £300 (€350/ US$480) subsidy for the purchase of a personal iPad or tablet. This will run from today until 30th June 2011.
‘The FT is making this investment because digital channels and tablet devices are becoming increasingly important for us and the media industry in general, and as recognition of your contribution to our strong performance this year.'”