By Edward Nawotka
Today’s lead story features a video interview with Henry Volans, head of digital development at Faber in the UK.
Part of Volans’ mission is to help establish a beachhead for Faber in the digital world. A venerable brand, Faber’s colophon is easily recognizable and, to some readers at least, promises quality content. But how does this brand equity translate to the digital age? Are all publishers –be they digital first indie publisher like Smashwords or massive conglomerates like Random House — starting from scratch on a level, digital playing field?
Certainly, it could be argued, that authors are the ones with the real brand equity and that publishers are all but invisible (a problem we’ve addressed here). But how can long-established publishers like Faber leverage their history to the best advantage online?
Theresa M.
1 year ago
While best selling authors may enjoy brand cachet, many others do not. It’s a matter of perspective because while those in the industry may be concerned about this, most readers are not. I have always said that the readers don’t care where the book comes from as long as it is a good read. From my experience with Smashwords, all publishers need to recognize that it’s not the publicity or promotion which affects their importance to the reader, it’s the honest presentation of quality and proberty to the readers’ needs. Smashwords has not really proved it can claim brand cachet since Amazon has been consistently selling ebooks before Smashwords even started its indie service. And as soon as Barnes & Noble launches the PubIt service, the waters will become very muddy indeed. Even then, all must begin at the bottom and work their way up.
Lyn Cote
1 year ago
I agree with Theresa in part. I don’t think that the publishers themselves have a BRAND equity. The one exception might be Harlequin since it has been the main romance publisher for over 30 years (just celebrated its 60th anniversary). Only time will tell whether brand equity exists for large publishing houses.