PowerHouse Arena founder Susanne König is the first winner of the Frankfurt Book Fair’s US Booksellers Prize for her work highlighting books in translation.
Acquisitions: Netflix Buys Millarworld; Barnes & Noble Education Buys Student Brands
Netflix acquires comic book publisher Millarworld. Barnes & Noble Education adds positions in Brazil, France, Mexico with Student Brands.
In an Economic Crunch, South African Readers Turn to Used Book Stores
From the VOA: Amid tough economic times in South Africa, consumers are supporting a growing number of used book stores, avoiding new-book prices.
At Frankfurt’s ‘The Markets’: Arief Hakim on the Malaysian Industry’s Challenges
Tested by years of economic struggles, Malaysian publisher Arief Hakim watches for signs of benefit in change. It’s been ‘a perfect storm,’ he says.
Industry Notes: Canada’s Shifts in Ebook and Print; London Book Fair Plans a Writer’s Digest Day
In Canada, BookNet’s check on sales shows ebooks a bit up, In the UK, a new author day is announced by London Book Fair and the US-based Writer’s Digest.
European Publishing Associations on Geo-Blocking, Ebooks, and the Digital Single Market
On the European Commission’s geo-blocking regulations for ebooks, the Italian, Greek, French, and European publishing associations issue words of caution.
In Poland, Empik Banks on Smaller, Targeted ‘Mole Mole’ Bookstores
A major Polish retailer is betting on ‘small format bookstores’ and proliferating locations to make a success of its new Mole Mole bookshops.
Acquisitions: Germany’s MVB Buys Pubnet and PubEasy
Stepping up its international expansion with an entry into the US market, Germany’s MVB acquires two ordering services, forming a New York-based subsidiary.
Europe’s Geo-Blocking Debate: Booksellers on the Ropes
On the way to Europe’s Digital Single Market, booksellers are alarmed by proposed EU legislation on geo-blocking and its potential effects on ebook sales.
Thailand’s Independent Bookstores: Curating Inventory for Their Patrons
From the Bangkok Post: As in many Western markets, independent bookstores stress personal service and warm environments in Thailand’s bookselling industry.