Penguin Offers New Business Model for Indies

Beginning January 1, 2013, Penguin Group USA will be offering independent bricks-and-mortar full-service bookstores a unique partnership opportunity to increase sales and profits and reduce returns for both frontlist and backlist titles. Penguin developed the program in response to the American Booksellers Association’s call for all publishers to individually identify and test new business models that recognize the importance of independent bookstores as both a sales channel and a unique — and essential — catalyst to sales in other channels as well.

“Penguin has always recognized the unique and invaluable role of independent booksellers and bookstores. We view our relationship as a partnership, and we look forward to developing these partnerships in exciting new ways in 2013,” said Katya Shannon, Vice President, Adult Hardcover Sales at Penguin.

“We congratulate Penguin for recognizing the vital role independent bookstores play in helping consumers discover new books,” said ABA CEO Oren Teicher.

The sign-up window for Penguin’s “Independent Bricks & Mortar Full-Service Bookstore Retail Partnership” is October 22, 2012 - December 15, 2012. ABA members can learn more about the program here [1]. Booksellers who would like further details are encouraged to contact a Penguin field sales manager, who will be able to walk them through the scope of the program. Contact information for Penguin’s field sales managers is available here [2].