Business Strategy Archives | 抖阴短视频 Book, Magazine & Catalog Printing Company Fri, 24 Jan 2025 14:02:53 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.9.10 /wp-content/uploads/2024/06/cropped-抖阴短视频-W-transparent-black-white-circle-32x32.png Business Strategy Archives | 抖阴短视频 32 32 The Hidden Costs of Cheap Commercial Printing /blog/hidden-costs-of-cheap-commercial-printing Fri, 24 Jan 2025 14:02:51 +0000 /?p=9970 In today’s competitive market, publishers are constantly seeking ways to reduce expenses, particularly when it comes to printing costs. While the allure of the lowest price is undeniable, opting for the cheapest printing option can often lead to unexpected and costly consequences. This blog post will delve into the hidden costs associated with cheap commercial...

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In today’s competitive market, publishers are constantly seeking ways to reduce expenses, particularly when it comes to printing costs. While the allure of the lowest price is undeniable, opting for the cheapest printing option can often lead to unexpected and costly consequences. This blog post will delve into the hidden costs associated with cheap commercial printing, explaining why it鈥檚 crucial to prioritize quality and long-term value over short-term savings.

Print Quality Compromises

Subpar Materials: Cheap printers often resort to low-quality paper, inks and other materials. This can result in:

  • Poor print quality: Blurry text, faded colors and uneven ink distribution can diminish the professionalism and impact of your printed materials.
  • Quick degradation: Low-quality paper and inks are more susceptible to fading, yellowing and tearing, reducing the lifespan of your printed materials.

Inaccurate Color Reproduction: Achieving accurate color consistency is crucial for brand identity. Cheap printers may lack the sophisticated color calibration and printing equipment necessary to accurately reproduce brand colors and high-quality photography. 

Poor Finishing: Finishing touches like binding, folding and lamination significantly impact the overall presentation and durability of your printed materials. Cheap printers may skimp on these finishing processes, resulting in:

  • Loose binding: Causing pages to fall out easily.
  • Uneven folds: Creating an unprofessional and messy appearance.
  • Poor lamination: This can lead to air bubbles, wrinkles and a less durable finish.

Time and Productivity Losses

Rework and Delays: Subpar print quality can require rework, resulting in missed delivery deadlines.

Customer Dissatisfaction: Receiving low-quality printed materials can damage your brand reputation and erode customer trust.

Wasted Resources: Time spent dealing with printing issues, managing reprints and addressing customer complaints diverts valuable resources away from core business activities.

Reputation Damage

Professionalism and Credibility: Low-quality printed materials can reflect poorly on your professionalism and credibility. Customers may perceive your business as cheap or unreliable, impacting their perception of your brand.

Brand Consistency: Inconsistent print quality across different marketing materials can confuse and frustrate customers. This can undermine your brand identity and make it difficult for customers to recognize and connect with your brand.

Lost Opportunities: Poorly printed materials can fail to effectively communicate your message and capture the attention of potential customers. This can lead to missed opportunities for sales and business growth.

The Risks of Overseas Printing

In the pursuit of cost savings, many publishers looking for a printer may turn to overseas options. While overseas printing can sometimes offer lower initial costs, it comes with a unique set of risks that can significantly impact your business:

Increased Delivery Times:

  • Shipping times for overseas printing can be significantly longer, leading to delays in marketing campaigns, publication delivery and other time-sensitive projects.
  • Unexpected delays due to customs issues, port congestion or unforeseen logistical challenges can further disrupt timelines and increase costs.

Impact of Foreign Import Tariffs:

  • Import tariffs can significantly increase the overall cost of printed materials.
  • Changes in trade policies and fluctuating tariff rates can create uncertainty and make it difficult to accurately predict and budget for printing expenses.

Quality Control Challenges:

  • Maintaining quality control can be more difficult with overseas printing.
  • Communication barriers, language differences and time zone disparities can make it challenging to address quality concerns promptly and effectively.
  • Due to the distance between publishers and their overseas printer, it can be more difficult to inspect materials and ensure they meet their specifications before shipment.

Environmental Concerns:

  • Overseas printing often involves longer transportation distances, contributing to increased carbon emissions and environmental impact.
  • It can be more difficult to ensure that overseas printers adhere to the same environmental standards and sustainability practices as domestic printers.

Reduced Control and Flexibility:

Relying on overseas printing can limit your control over the printing process and make it more difficult to make adjustments or address issues quickly. This can be particularly problematic for urgent projects or situations that require immediate changes.

Choosing the Right Printing Partner

Instead of focusing solely on price, businesses should prioritize finding a reliable printing partner that:

Offers high-quality materials and printing techniques: While the quoted price may be higher, an investment in high-quality print techniques can shield you from unexpected, costly reprints.

Provides accurate color matching and consistent print quality: Your printed materials are a direct representation of your brand and should communicate your commitment to quality and attention to detail.

Delivers on time: In today鈥檚 fast-paced world, customers don鈥檛 want to wait, and they shouldn鈥檛 have to. A domestic printing company that understands the ins and outs of mailing can help ensure your customers receive their printed materials right on time.

Offers excellent customer service and support: When it comes to customer service, you get what you pay for. Partnering with a company that prioritizes customer support will save you time and reduce stress in the long run.

Prioritizes sustainability and environmental responsibility: Partnering with a printer that keeps the environment in mind helps reduce waste and emissions and makes your company look better in the eyes of your customers.

Partner With 抖阴短视频 for Printing Excellence

While the allure of cheap commercial printing may be tempting, the hidden costs can significantly outweigh any short-term savings. By prioritizing quality, reliability and long-term value, businesses can ensure that their printed materials effectively represent their brand, drive customer engagement and contribute to overall business success. Remember, investing in high-quality printing is an investment in your brand’s future.

With over 88 years of experience, the 抖阴短视频 name is synonymous with printing excellence. As a full-service printer, we can take your product from design to fulfillment, all while providing the highest level of customer service and print quality. If you鈥檇 like to know more about our magazine, catalog or book printing services, get in touch with us today and see the 抖阴短视频 difference for yourself.

* This article was developed with assistance from Google鈥檚 PaLM 2 large language AI model.

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The Benefits of Choosing a Family-Owned Printing Partner /blog/benefits-of-a-family-owned-printing-partner Fri, 06 Dec 2024 20:29:42 +0000 /?p=9757 As a publisher, finding a skilled printing partner is key to your success. A good printer provides countless benefits; helpful tips for the design and pre-press processes, simplified distribution and a high-quality print product, to name a few. However, when working with a large printing company owned by private equity, it鈥檚 easy to feel like...

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As a publisher, finding a skilled printing partner is key to your success. A good printer provides countless benefits; helpful tips for the design and pre-press processes, simplified distribution and a high-quality print product, to name a few. However, when working with a large printing company owned by private equity, it鈥檚 easy to feel like just another number on a spreadsheet.

That鈥檚 why we at 抖阴短视频 suggest partnering with a family-owned printing company. The right partner can give you the same benefits as a large corporation with more flexibility and personalized service. Read on to discover more of the perks a family-owned printer like 抖阴短视频 can offer.

Personalized Service

One of the most significant advantages of choosing a family-owned printing partner is the personalized service they provide. Family-owned businesses often have a deep-rooted commitment to customer satisfaction, leading to a more attentive and responsive approach.

  • Knowledgeable Staff: Family-owned printers frequently employ experienced staff who are passionate about their craft, as these printing experts reflect well on their business. This expertise ensures that you receive helpful advice and guidance throughout your project, and are less likely to experience delays and quality issues.
  • Quick Response Times: Smaller, family-run operations often have streamlined processes and fewer bureaucratic hurdles, allowing them to respond to your needs promptly. If you鈥檝e ever been in a situation where you needed a last-minute change made to your project, you understand how crucial this can be.
  • Tailored Solutions: Family-owned businesses are adept at customizing services to meet specific requirements. Whether you need a simple saddle stitch magazine or an embossed, casebound book, they can tailor their offerings to suit your unique needs.

Price Flexibility

Family-owned printers are often able to offer competitive pricing without sacrificing quality. Their smaller overhead costs and direct relationships with suppliers can translate into significant savings for their clients.

  • Creative Solutions: When working with a family-owned printer that really values your business, they may be more able to find creative solutions to help maintain your budget while still delivering the product you need. For example, when Sophia Institute Press came to 抖阴短视频 with an idea for a new project, we were able to utilize specialty printing equipment in our Ripon, Wisconsin, printing facility to realize their vision while staying comfortably within their budget.
  • Long-Term Partnerships: Building strong relationships with family-owned businesses can lead to long-term partnerships, offering consistent quality and more familiarity with your project, meaning you鈥檒l be the first to know about potential cost-saving solutions.

Building Strong Partnerships

Beyond the practical benefits, choosing a family-owned printing partner can foster a deeper connection and build stronger relationships.

  • Shared Values: Family-owned businesses often share similar values with their clients, such as a commitment to quality, integrity and community. They may have a particularly strong commitment to sustainability, or prioritize safety for all employees.
  • Trust and Transparency: Open communication and trust are essential in any business relationship. Family-owned printers prioritize these values, fostering a collaborative and transparent partnership.
  • Community Impact: By supporting local, family-owned businesses, you contribute to the economic vitality of your community. For example, 抖阴短视频 has a history of uplifting our communities, which is reflected in our mission statement: creating opportunities for our team, customers and communities through print.
  • Low Turnover: Family-owned companies that support their employees often benefit from low turnover; a benefit that you as a customer can also enjoy. When building a long-term relationship with a family-owned printing company, it鈥檚 likely that you鈥檒l be working with the same skilled employees for years to come and won鈥檛 have to struggle to adjust to a new point of contact. 

Partner With 抖阴短视频, a Family-Owned Printer

By choosing a family-owned printing partner, you’re not just selecting a vendor; you’re building a lasting relationship with a business that shares your values and is committed to your success. At 抖阴短视频, we embody the values and advantages of a family-owned printing partner. We offer personalized service, competitive pricing and a commitment to building long-lasting relationships with our partners.

For your next printing project, consider partnering with 抖阴短视频. We’re dedicated to providing exceptional service and high-quality books, magazines and catalogs. If you鈥檇 like to learn more about what 抖阴短视频 has to offer, get in touch with us today.

* This article was developed with assistance from Google鈥檚 PaLM 2 large language AI model.

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The Benefits of Choosing an American Printing Partner /blog/benefits-of-choosing-an-american-printing-partner Fri, 22 Nov 2024 14:19:13 +0000 /?p=9701 As a publisher, choosing the right printing partner is crucial to the overall success of your publication or product. But with so many factors to consider, it can be difficult to narrow down the right choice. Thanks to the efficiency of transportation in the modern age, American publishers now have the option of working with...

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As a publisher, choosing the right printing partner is crucial to the overall success of your publication or product. But with so many factors to consider, it can be difficult to narrow down the right choice. Thanks to the efficiency of transportation in the modern age, American publishers now have the option of working with an overseas printer. These printing companies may seem like a good choice thanks to their generally low printing costs, but these cost savings come with their own price. 

In this article, we鈥檒l discuss why as an American publisher, you鈥檙e most likely better off choosing a printing partner that operates and prints solely in the United States.

The Timeliness Advantage

Reduced Lead Times

If your business and customers are located in the United States, working with an American printer is more than likely going to drastically reduce shipping times compared to an overseas printer. These faster turnaround times can be a game changer, especially for publications that focus on timely issues like sports and politics. But even for other types of print products, like books and catalogs, faster shipping means happier customers.

Improved Communication

Communication with your printing partner will be much easier if they鈥檙e located in the same country. Working with an overseas printer can come with massive time zone differences that make instant communication difficult. Easier communication can lead to faster problem-solving, helping ensure print runs are executing smoothly and to your exact specifications.

Some publishers also like to visit the printing facility for an in-person press check, giving them a better understanding of what their final product will look like. An in-person visit is much more feasible if the plant is a three-hour drive away versus a 12-hour flight. 

Greater Flexibility

During the printing process, last-minute requests and changes may arise. By operating close to home, domestic printers are more able to accommodate these requests than international printers, ensuring your final product reflects your desired changes. And, with quicker turnaround times, last-minute reprints become much easier and won鈥檛 require weeks or months of waiting for products to clear customs. 

Supporting American Values

Ethical Sourcing

Some publishers choose to work with an American printing partner because they prioritize supporting ethical business practices. For example, Geoff from MCDM Productions told us when his company was looking for a new printing partner, it was important for them to find a company that matched their own values. 鈥淲e take employee compensation and benefits, and ethics behind paper source and ink seriously,鈥 Geoff explained. 鈥淪ome of that you don鈥檛 get when you go other places. Getting the lowest price is not our priority 鈥 it鈥檚 about how everything is sourced and put together, and the overall customer service experience.鈥

Supporting Local Economies

When working with an American printing partner, it鈥檚 easier to see the impact your print project has on the employees who produce it. As a family-owned company based in Marceline, Missouri, 抖阴短视频 operates its print facilities exclusively in smaller towns where our work has a significant impact on the local economy, providing steady, stable jobs for families who have lived there for generations.

Reduced Environmental Impact

For American companies, choosing a domestic printing partner is an important step in minimizing carbon emissions resulting from long-distance shipping. Additionally, printing companies based in the United States adhere to certain environmental standards that help protect the environment from harmful production practices. Some companies even go a step further, obtaining certification from programs like the Sustainable Forestry Initiative and Forest Stewardship Council. These certifications ensure companies adhere to responsible chain of custody procedures, resulting in kinder treatment of the earth and its forests.

Partner With 抖阴短视频, a True American Printer

In summary, there are numerous benefits to choosing an American printing partner, both from a logistics standpoint and an ethical one. When you partner with 抖阴短视频, you gain access to over 87 years of printing expertise, supported by our dedicated staff of Customer Service Representatives and Sales Representatives. With four state-of-the-art printing facilities located strategically across the Midwest, we offer mailing and distribution solutions to fit your schedule and budget. To find out more about our book, catalog and magazine printing solutions, get in touch with us today.

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The Switching Advantage: Why Businesses Choose 抖阴短视频 /blog/why-businesses-choose-walsworth Fri, 12 Jul 2024 13:12:48 +0000 /?p=8166 There are plenty of reasons why it may be time to begin a partnership with a new printer. Price, schedule and expertise (or lack thereof) can play huge roles in your overall relationship with your printer. Over the years, many publishers have come to 抖阴短视频 looking for a fresh start, and thanks to our dedication...

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There are plenty of reasons why it may be time to begin a partnership with a new printer. Price, schedule and expertise (or lack thereof) can play huge roles in your overall relationship with your printer. Over the years, many publishers have come to 抖阴短视频 looking for a fresh start, and thanks to our dedication to customer service and high-quality printing, we were able to turn those burgeoning relationships into rock-solid printing partnerships that have lasted years.

Here are some examples of 抖阴短视频 customers who enjoyed amazing benefits from making the switch:

Sophia Institute Press

Sophia Institute Press is a publisher that specializes in Catholic publications and materials. 抖阴短视频鈥檚 relationship with Sophia Institute Press began in July 2020, when we printed several children鈥檚 books for them. Soon after, Sophia approached us with an idea for a brand-new monthly publication, modeled after similar Catholic daily use titles available in Europe.

Thanks to the collective skill and expertise of our elite printing staff, 抖阴短视频 was able to identify and match the specifications of these European titles to create Benedictus, a customized monthly publication that exactly matched Sophia Institute Press鈥 vision. Not only did our product meet their needs visually, but we also found significant cost savings through the use of specialized printing equipment at 抖阴短视频 鈥 Ripon.

Read the full Sophia Institute Press case study here.

Airport Improvement

Airport Improvement is a publication that features stories, case studies and updates about planned, ongoing and completed projects at airports across North America. When their previous printer of 13 years abruptly ended their partnership, Publisher Paul Bowers was forced to make a change. Luckily, 抖阴短视频 was there to help.

Thanks to 抖阴短视频鈥檚 dedication to customer service, Paul was able to maintain his processes and continue putting out an incredibly successful and profitable magazine. 鈥淸抖阴短视频] made the transition so seamless 鈥 it was unbelievable. I didn鈥檛 have to change any of my systems when I came on with 抖阴短视频. They were able to adapt to my system. Whether it was scheduling for when we send magazines out or things like inserts, I鈥檝e been very happy and thankful to 抖阴短视频 for being there. We鈥檝e been very lucky and profitable, and they鈥檙e a key part of what we do.鈥 鈥 Paul Bowers, Publisher of Airport Improvement

Read the full Airport Improvement customer spotlight here.

Edible Communities

Edible Communities is a unique concept 鈥 a licensing organization where each seasonal publication focuses on a specific region’s food scene. This creates a challenge: maintaining a consistent brand experience across various regions and numerous publishers, each with potentially different printing needs and preferences.

When Edible Communities began printing with 抖阴短视频 in 2017, we only printed a few of their seasonal publications. However, our partnership blossomed over the next several years, and we now print over 20 Edible magazines. Thanks to our expertise and project management skills, we鈥檝e ensured brand consistency across all of our Edible publications, and our Edible publishers benefit from the convenience of working with a single print and distribution team.

Read the full Edible Communities case study here.

Seton Home Study School

During the height of the pandemic in 2020, Seton Home Study School was left high and dry when their previous printer shut its doors. At the same time, the demand for their printed homeschool curriculum books was skyrocketing. Luckily, they were referred to 抖阴短视频 by their previous print sales representative, and the timing couldn鈥檛 have been better.

During this time, the print industry was suffering from unprecedented paper supply chain shortages, and printing companies all over the country were navigating strict paper allotments.听 As their new printing partner, 抖阴短视频 was able to create a backstock of the specific paper needed to print Seton鈥檚 books and meet the education company鈥檚 increased demands. Thanks to our industry expertise, Seton Home Study School thrived during this difficult period.

Read the full Seton Home Study School case study here.

Sporting Classics

Some customers, like Sporting Classics magazine, choose 抖阴短视频 for the same reason we鈥檝e remained successful in the print industry for over 87 years: our stability. Sporting Classics is a love letter to all things outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. When Chief Operating Officer Wayne Nanney chose to switch to 抖阴短视频, he was looking for a consistent and reliable partner.

鈥淲e chose 抖阴短视频 to print our magazine over others because we were trying to find stability in a volatile market. 抖阴短视频鈥檚 rates were very competitive, but more importantly, the supply chain was robust and they weren鈥檛 making excuses for shortfalls or delays. Our publishing and mailing dates are always on target. The customer service from the executive level and sales level to the print shop is exceptional.

鈥淪porting Classics made a good decision to print with 抖阴短视频. 抖阴短视频 is a valued business partner of Sporting Classics.鈥 鈥 Wayne Nanney, COO and CFO of Sporting Classics

Read the full Sporting Classics customer spotlight here.

抖阴短视频鈥檚 Unmatched Stability

When switching to a new printer, you may be concerned that your new partnership is going to get turned upside-down if your printer is acquired by another company, or worse, shuts its doors altogether. With 抖阴短视频, you don鈥檛 have to worry 鈥 we鈥檝e been around for 87 years, and we鈥檙e not going anywhere. In fact, we鈥檝e acquired an additional three state-of-the-art printing facilities since 2010, helping us grow to be the third largest book and magazine printer in the United States and Canada.

Make the Switch and Experience the 抖阴短视频 Difference

This article shared just a few of the many benefits 抖阴短视频 has to offer. Interested in learning more about what we can do for you? Whether it鈥檚 books, magazines or catalogs, 抖阴短视频 has multiple print platforms, binding types and applications to fit your needs and your budget. Find out more by contacting us today, and let鈥檚 get started!

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A New View of Magazine Cost Control /blog/how-to-save-on-magazine-costs Wed, 22 Nov 2023 19:50:59 +0000 /?p=6617 Cost control is a way of life in today鈥檚 publishing environment. Yet cost-saving efforts virtually always carry an element of bad news. And the worst news stems from cuts that make a publication less viable over the longer term. It鈥檚 especially painful when we鈥檙e experiencing a resurgence in magazines鈥攑articularly print versions. According to a May...

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Cost control is a way of life in today鈥檚 publishing environment. Yet cost-saving efforts virtually always carry an element of bad news. And the worst news stems from cuts that make a publication less viable over the longer term. It鈥檚 especially painful when we鈥檙e experiencing a resurgence in magazines鈥攑articularly print versions.

According to a May 25, 2023, Fortune article by David Miller, 鈥,鈥 overall magazine readership has been increasing for the past 10 years. There was a temporary dip in pass-along readership during the pandemic, but magazines are regaining that ground.

As the article also points out, readers still prefer print. A YouGov survey indicates only 29% of readers in the United States said they prefer reading magazines online. Print is poised to further take advantage of a phenomenon Miller calls 鈥渄igital detox,鈥 where people schedule time away from devices.

Most readers (including groups of all ages) love the tactile qualities of print. They simply love the touch and feel of print and even the act of turning pages. They also spend more time reading print publications vs. digital.

What鈥檚 more, advertisers have taken notice of the research on print and how it interacts with parts of the brain that impact buying decisions. The fact that readers find print advertising less intrusive is another feather in its cap. With more than 7,000 U.S. magazines in print reaching an audience of 220 million readers, print magazine publishing has a strong future.

Special-Interest Magazine Printing: A Tough Business

Believe us. We understand. In fact, within our world of special-interest magazine printing, we see two main challenges facing our customers:

  • Developing compelling content that attracts and retains readers, which, in turn, attracts advertisers.
  • Managing the business operations to remain competitive and financially sound.

The latter means sometimes even the best-run publications need to reduce costs. There is always a balancing act between enhancing revenue streams and trimming costs. But what can you cut from the budget without sacrificing quality?

Perhaps it鈥檚 worth stepping outside the publishing box and looking at the broader business world. suggests executives at large companies often regret the snap decisions they make when trying to cut costs. This survey of 500听leaders from global organizations with over 3,000 employees shows 93 percent admitted to making snap decisions aimed at combating rising inflation, sluggish consumer confidence and the increased cost of goods.

Thirty-eight percent of those business leaders already regret it. Why? The cuts resulted in low levels of employee engagement, operational efficiency, and productivity.听And in the case of layoffs, the organizations lost valuable talent. Most leaders also felt they suffered reputational damage.

Beware of the Typical Cost-Cutting Plan

Hands holding a pair of scissors, about to cut through a piece of paper that reads "costs"

From our observations, magazine publishers tend to gravitate toward page and/or frequency reductions, as well as personnel cuts. The problem is any of these actions, either taken individually or in some combination, can weaken the product. Most businesses 鈥 magazine publishing or otherwise 鈥 don鈥檛 soar by lessening their product. And in the case of many small- and medium-sized publishers, the elimination of even one position can have a big impact鈥搊ften in a negative way.

How To Cut Magazine Costs the Right Way

Closely examining your circulation list can be a good starting point. Advertisers don鈥檛 care as much about sheer numbers today. They are more interested in an engaged, well-targeted audience. Many publishers are investing in acquiring more profitable subscribers and changing them out for less engaged, less profitable readers. Show advertisers data you fine-tuned your circulation list, and they likely won鈥檛 squawk about lower numbers.

Clean Up Your Subscriber List

While it may sound basic, practicing good subscriber list hygiene can help you optimize your list for the greatest postal savings and delivery speed. At 抖阴短视频, CASS-certified software helps ensure every subscriber address is current, duplicate-free and sorted and grouped properly for the lowest possible postage rate.

Consider Co-Mailing

You should also consider co-mailing your special-interest magazine if you are not currently doing so. Co-mailing creates 鈥減ools鈥 that may consist of 30 or more titles from different publishers. After combining pieces into one presorted pool, mailers gain the benefits of higher, volume-based presort discounts as well as work-share discounts provided by the USPS.

Customers who switch to 抖阴短视频 often save on magazine mailing costs with our intelligent, streamlined Co-Mailing strategies. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help cut your magazine costs!

Two (Or Three Or Four Or Five) Heads Can Be Better Than One

Young, smiling professionals gathered around a table collaborating on a project

Looking at expenses across the enterprise can pay dividends. Even minor expenses like catered lunches and office supplies, as well as larger items like healthcare, travel, and entertainment, can add up. She notes some publishers find success with a committee-based approach to cost decisions.

In this scenario, representatives from sales and marketing, editorial, accounting and other departments look for areas in which the organization can lower costs. It鈥檚 less top-down and incorporates a broader perspective.

Automate Wherever Practical

While automation does carry the potential to eliminate jobs, it can also free up staff for better uses, increasing overall productivity and success. Automating anything from production workflows to ways of reaching potential subscribers, processing subscription renewals and accounting tasks like payroll are good targets. Associations and other member-based publishing organizations that also fulfill print material requests would benefit from adding automated, customized, and demand-based digital storefronts.

Save on Magazine Costs with 抖阴短视频

We have decades of experience serving special-interest magazine publishers鈥攁nd saving them money. In fact, meeting the needs of small- and mid-market publishers enabled 抖阴短视频 to become North America鈥檚 third-largest magazine printer. You can lower your costs through our collaborative workflow tools, choice of multiple print platforms, efficient paper sourcing, and expert mailing, distribution and fulfillment services.

Our customer-first, 鈥渆asy-to-do-business-with鈥 approach also saves you time and money. You spend less time managing the production process and more time focusing on your readers. To start saving money now, simply submit your information and a friendly 抖阴短视频 associate will be in touch within 24 hours. You鈥檒l be glad you did. And so will your readers, advertisers and financial stakeholders.

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Why You Should Onshore Your Book Production /blog/onshore-book-production Thu, 26 Oct 2023 18:11:51 +0000 /?p=6433 The pandemic challenged book publishers as never before. The good news was book demand rose in many categories with people sheltering at home and seeking entertainment. The bad news was the increasingly global book manufacturing and distribution supply chain was severely challenged. Briefly, here鈥檚 what happened: Global labor shortage Global shipping issues Global paper shortage...

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The pandemic challenged book publishers as never before. The good news was book demand rose in many categories with people sheltering at home and seeking entertainment. The bad news was the increasingly global book manufacturing and distribution supply chain was severely challenged. Briefly, here鈥檚 what happened:

  • Global labor shortage
  • Global shipping issues
  • Global paper shortage
  • Global ink shortage
  • Domestic manufacturing strain

Where We Stand Now

Clearly, some normalization occurred, though many problems linger. There are still price and supply-chain challenges, but they are becoming more manageable.

From a print perspective, while e-books and especially audiobooks grew, they did not grow at the level forecasted, according to a (BMI) white paper. Their growth was not to the detriment of printed books. A says although three in ten readers now read e-books, 鈥減rint books remain the most popular format for reading, with 65% of adults saying that they have read a print book in the past year.鈥

Only 9% of Americans claim to exclusively read books in digital formats and have not read any print books in the past 12 months. Print thus emerged from the pandemic as a strong favorite among American book readers.

So, Where to Manufacture Your Books?

As the BMI Report further points out, onshoring work during the pandemic became the best way to keep producing books. That being said, years of offshoring took a toll on U.S. book manufacturers鈥 capacity. If you were a publisher who had previously turned to foreign production, you likely had to rethink your publishing calendar, warehouse space and distribution options. You may have delayed the introduction of some titles and used more digital print options for others. With the return to domestic production, these timelines are typically shortened, even despite the pandemic and supply chain challenges. Undoubtedly, it took time and effort to either reestablish or start fresh relationships with U.S.-based manufacturers.

You went through some challenges to solidify your domestic book manufacturing. Is it worth undoing the work to reestablish offshore production? Here are some reasons why domestic production may still be the best choice:

  • Some international book manufacturers have new constraints about subject matter they can and cannot print. According to the BMI, 鈥淐ompanies like PrintNinja note on their website that due to government regulations, books with religious references, violence, nudity, Bibles, or books referencing politically sensitive topics are off limits.鈥
  • The existing cost difference means there is still an offshore market. Yet more publishers are weighing the risks of everything from political upheavals to potential pandemics. Some are choosing to limit that risk by finding U.S.-based capacity. The total cost of production, now weighted with shipping and political challenges has lost some luster.
  • The book publishing and manufacturing model is changing. While print is the preferred format, the number of books per order continues to drop in most segments. Still, BMI points out that the number of book titles seeking a manufacturing option remains high. The challenge is to develop physical printing plants and supportive workflows to address current market needs AND future changes.

Traditional print production will remain dominant for the foreseeable future, but there will be even more digital integration. Book publishers increasingly embrace the idea that it鈥檚 simpler and more cost-efficient to process more orders than to overstock a warehouse. However, the pressures to meet new order and fulfillment strategies will require fast and nimble book manufacturing. Domestic-based production might well prove to be the better, more manageable solution for this evolving marketplace.

Printing Books Here at 抖阴短视频

Our 86 years of experience and proven adaptability helped make us North America鈥檚 third-largest book manufacturer. Though we serve a wide range of customers, many mid-market publishers especially appreciate our strengths. 抖阴短视频 is ideal for publishers seeking economies of scale and enabling technology along with a personalized customer experience. Everything we do at 抖阴短视频 aims to make your business relationship both friendly and easy.

Here are some additional advantages you鈥檒l find at 抖阴短视频:

  • Print platforms based on web heatset and sheetfed technology (in up to 10 colors), and digital printing systems for short run and on-demand needs.
  • Quality print backed by our G7庐 Master Qualification from IDEAlliance and Master Printers of America status.
  • Paper services designed to help you identify and secure paper (including eco-friendly alternatives) to meet your budget and branding goals. An extensive in-house paper selection provides high value while eliminating inventory costs for you.
  • Bindery options including Smyth Sewn, perfect and wire-o binding, as well as a wide variety of hardcover and soft cover specialty binding capabilities, including paperback. Special finishing capabilities like embossing, spot UV, lamination and laser cutting, gatefolds and ribboning, can further enhance your books.
  • Fulfillment and distribution models offer customized, demand-based and scalable systems for complete lifecycle management. Offload your order processing and inventory management tasks to us.
  • Hosted eCommerce solutions that help you quickly and easily start selling online. Your personalized storefront can be up and running in no time.

Learn more about 抖阴短视频 by visiting our website. Or you can submit your information and a friendly 抖阴短视频 associate will be in touch quickly. Contact 抖阴短视频 today for high-quality printing solutions in the heart of the United States.

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CreativePro Week with James Wamser /blog/creativepro-week-with-james-wamser Fri, 23 Jun 2023 18:25:34 +0000 /?p=6108 The highly anticipated CreativePro Week conference, a premier how-to seminar for creative professionals, recently concluded in Phoenix, Arizona. Taking place from June 5 to 9, the event drew more than 500 enthusiastic individuals both in-person and virtually eager to learn and be inspired. 抖阴短视频 was honored to be a sponsor at the event, which included...

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The highly anticipated , a premier how-to seminar for creative professionals, recently concluded in Phoenix, Arizona. Taking place from June 5 to 9, the event drew more than 500 enthusiastic individuals both in-person and virtually eager to learn and be inspired. 抖阴短视频 was honored to be a sponsor at the event, which included a dedicated table where we could engage and network with fellow sponsors and attendees. One of our very own, James Wamser, took the stage during CreativePro Week to share his expertise and insights. Wamser added tremendous value to the event, further solidifying our commitment to empowering the creative communities we support. Featured in this article are tips from Wamser 鈥 who is an 鈥 on how to improve productivity, along with the resources we provide here at 抖阴短视频.

CreativePro Week

The InDesign Conference, now part of CreativePro Week, was established in 2004. The conference was designed exclusively for creative professionals utilizing InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat, PowerPoint and other Adobe software. CreativePro Week attracts a diverse range of participants, including graphic designers, production artists, creative managers, educators, small publishers, workflow consultants, and more. More than 2,500 companies, universities, and government agencies sent their design and production staff to Creative Pro week. These organizations recognize the value of this extraordinary event. This community encompasses a broad spectrum of expertise, spanning from newcomers to seasoned professionals, with one common interest: remaining on the cutting edge of design practices and advancements.

In a rapidly evolving industry, CreativePro Week keeps users at the forefront, fostering continuous professional growth. Featuring over 30 industry experts and 75+ valuable sessions, CreativePro Week equips users, regardless of proficiency, with the latest techniques and best practices to enhance productivity. Attendees were also given a full year of on-demand access. This includes all session recordings for the days registered, hundreds of pages of resources from the world鈥檚 top experts, and alumni discount savings.

In case you missed this year鈥檚 conference, On-Demand Passes are still available to .

Meet James Wamser

James Wamser is an Adobe Certified Expert and Instructor. Wamser serves as a Customer Education Specialist at 抖阴短视频’s Ripon, Wisconsin, facility. Since 2004, he has also taught InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop at and chairs the Milwaukee InDesign User Group. Wamser is widely recognized for his expertise and regularly presents at seminars and workshops, sharing his knowledge and insights. With a wealth of experience in the field, he excels in educating customers and helping them maximize their understanding of Adobe products by providing them with , templates and more. Wamser’s contributions to customer education and his dedication to sharing his expertise, make him an invaluable asset to 抖阴短视频.

Make the Prepress Process Smoother

The topic of the presentation James Wamser gave at CreativePro week was titled, 鈥淗ow to Make the Prepress Process Smoother.鈥 Wamser emphasized the crucial role that creative professionals play in ensuring a smooth prepress process. He explained that by implementing these practices, you can significantly contribute to the overall efficiency of your workflow.

  1. Building your document to the final trim size with 1/8-inch margins and bleed: By adhering to this trim size and incorporating appropriate margins and bleed, you can minimize the chances of error and ensure your design elements are preserved during the printing process.
  2. Utilizing templates, especially for perfect bound covers: Templates provide a solid foundation for your designs, ensuring consistency and compatibility. When working on complex projects like perfect bound covers, leveraging templates can streamline your workflow and save valuable time.
  3. Obtaining Preflight and PDF Export Settings from your printer: By collaborating with 抖阴短视频, you can access specific preflight and PDF export settings tailored to your requirements. This proactive approach eliminates potential issues and ensures your files are print-ready.
  4. Sending test pages before submitting the final PDF: Before submitting the final document, it is advisable to send a few test pages to your printer for review. This step enables you to catch any potential inconsistencies early on, facilitating a more efficient prepress process.

抖阴短视频’s Commitment to Providing Support Within the Prepress Process

Founded more than 85 years ago, 抖阴短视频 has grown into a leading printing company. As a company, we thrive on our commitment to exceptional service and innovative ideas, attributed to our customers and dedicated workforce. We are here to help support you in optimizing your prepress workflow. Here are the key services and resources we provide in this process:

  1. Preflight and PDF Export settings: 抖阴短视频 understands the importance of providing accurate and reliable preflight and PDF export settings. By tailoring these settings to your specific needs, we enable seamless integration with our printing processes, ensuring a smoother prepress experience.
  2. Templates: We recognize the value of templates in streamlining the design process. Our templates were made to assist creative professionals in maintaining consistency and meeting the necessary specifications for various print projects.
  3. Reviewing test pages and providing feedback: At 抖阴短视频, we prioritize collaboration and offer our expertise to help you refine your designs. By reviewing test pages and providing constructive feedback, we contribute to the continual improvement of your projects, leading to enhanced results.

Key Takeaways

Collaboration and technological progress were central themes throughout the CreativePro Week conference. Despite the rapid pace of innovation, the conference consistently emphasized the significance of staying grounded in core functions. Notably, the event attracted many participants involved in the print industry, affirming its continued growth and relevance. “It was pleasing to see the continued growth of the print industry,鈥 James Wamser said, 鈥淚 even had the opportunity to engage with Adobe representatives to discuss improvements and provide feedback.”

Overall, the CreativePro Week conference provided an enriching experience for creative professionals, offering opportunities to network, gain knowledge, and find inspiration. By incorporating James Wamser’s insights on streamlining the prepress process, you can significantly enhance the success of your print projects. Through the automation of previously manual tasks, you can maximize your productivity.

As a company, 抖阴短视频 remains dedicated to supporting creatives by providing the necessary resources to elevate their efficiency and quality of work. As always, we are here to guide you along your creative journey. Together, we can reach our goals and unlock the full potential of our creative endeavors. To access our library of guides and templates, please visit /.

 

Want to talk about a project you have coming up? Get in touch here.

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The Educational Book Market: Trends, Growth and Future Outlook /blog/educational-book Fri, 16 Jun 2023 16:03:27 +0000 /?p=6079 Educational books are a crucial resource in learning. From textbooks to curriculum materials, the educational book market encompasses a wide range of materials. Today, we will delve into the significance of the educational book market, explore recent developments and trends, and provide insights into its future trajectory. Understanding the Educational Book Market Educational books are...

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Educational books are a crucial resource in learning. From textbooks to curriculum materials, the educational book market encompasses a wide range of materials. Today, we will delve into the significance of the educational book market, explore recent developments and trends, and provide insights into its future trajectory.

Understanding the Educational Book Market

Educational books are a crucial resource in learning. From textbooks to curriculum materials, the educational book market encompasses a wide range of products. Today, we will delve into the significance of the educational book market, explore recent developments/trends, and provide insights into the future trajectory.

The Educational Book Market Consumer Audience

The educational book market primarily consists of resources designed for use in schools, libraries, homeschool settings and other educational environments. It encompasses textbooks, curriculum materials, assessment tools, teacher’s editions and workbooks.

The market is divided into two key segments: K-12 (sometimes called El-Hi) and Higher Education. The K-12 segment focuses on materials tailored for classrooms from Pre-kindergarten through high school. The Higher Education segment focuses on education beyond high school, from college and trade schools on up.听

Manufacturing Standards and Specifications for Textbooks听

Not every printer is set up to cater to the educational book market because of requisite standards for the products as demanded by this market. The Manufacturing Standards and Specifications for Textbooks requires stringent compliance addressing materials, layout and construction which must be met for the product to be deemed acceptable. The standards arose not only out of the environment for the end use of the books, but also out of concern for durability given the typical lifespan of a textbook.

History

鈥淭he adoption of a myriad of refinements to the specifications, as well as several major evolutions of the MSST that have been discussed, have contributed to keeping the textbook industry supplied with a continuing flow of materials and modern methods of manufacture. As a result, we can safely maintain that we have the strongest and most economical textbooks that can be supplied anywhere 鈥 and a set of specifications that are a worldwide standard for manufacturing El-Hi textbooks.鈥 鈥 Book Manufacturers鈥 InstituteThe history of the MSST can be traced back to . Colonel E.W. Palmer, who was President of Kingsport Press, started going from state to state, meeting with publishers and state textbook directors to encourage uniform specifications. The Book Manufacturers鈥 Institute revised and approved the first print specifications on Oct. 6, 1939. Those specs were based on what was being used in Texas at the time. BMI worked with the National Association of State Textbook Administrators and the Association of American Publishers to perform tests and develop requirements for K-12 textbooks. The organization shared the impact of decades spent fine-tuning these specifications.

 

 

Standards

The MSST is currently maintained by the MSST Committee. It is made up of volunteers from BMI, the State Instructional Materials Review Association and Educational Publishers. BMI provides a 120-page guide to MSST standards .听

Those standards include regulations on things like:听

  • Types of binding听
  • Quality of adhesives
  • What can be printed on the endsheets
  • Margins
  • How easily the paper tears
  • Color of paper (only shades of white)
  • Tightbacking (the process by which the spine of the book block is affixed to its case with a strong adhesive so it doesn鈥檛 tear away from the case)
  • Gauzing (gauzing is a rigorous cheesecloth material that can be penetrated by adhesive and is used to strengthen the construction of the book)

MSST aims to define quality standards for elementary and secondary school textbooks, ensuring longevity and durability. Although MSST does not dictate manufacturing methods, it sets benchmarks to which manufacturers must comply.

Books subject to the MSST guidelines are hardcover textbooks and non-consumable books. Other educational resources like workbooks and teachers’ editions are not held to these standards.

Importance of the Educational Book Market

The educational book market holds significant importance due to its role in providing essential learning resources to students and educators. Educational books serve as a fundamental pillar of the education system, enabling effective teaching and learning experiences. It鈥檚 also a huge subset of the overall book market, whether measured by revenue/spend or units produced.听

How It鈥檚 Going

According to the Association of American Publishers, overall reached an all-time high of $29.3 billion in 2021. El-Hi and Higher Education were a significant segment of the overall market.听

  • The El-Hi category revenue increased 25.3%, from $3.8 billion in 2020 to $4.8 billion in 2021. This notable increase was likely driven by students鈥 return to in-classroom learning following the COVID shutdowns of 2020.听
  • Higher Education revenue grew 2.8%, from $3.1 billion in 2020 to $3.2 billion in 2021.
  • The pre-COVID numbers from 2019 were also promising, with El-Hi education revenue at $4.4 billion, a 30.7% increase over 2018. Higher education hadn鈥檛 been performing quite as well. The 2019 revenue was $3.3 billion, down 10.3% from 2018.听

Those two categories combined made up a whopping 29.5% in 2019 and 27.4% of revenue for the entire book industry in 2021.

Consumer expenditure on educational books in the United States first surpassed the $10 billion mark in 2016. It stayed fairly steady for several years, then jumped to $12.8 billion in 2021, up from $10.4 billion the previous year.

Bar graph of consumer expenditure on educational books in the United States from 1999 to 2021. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. 1999 = $8.56 billion, 2000 = $9.04 billion, 2001 = $9.23 billion, 2002 = $9.7 billion, 2003 = $9.85 billion, 2004 = $9.88 billion, 2005 = $9.77 billion, 2006 = $9.67 billion, 2007 = $9.42 billion, 2008 = $9.59 billion, 2009 = $9.52 billion, 2010 = $9.82 billion, 2011 = $9.72 billion, 2012 = $9.55 billion, 2013 = $9.45 billion, 2014 = $9.59 billion, 2015 = $9.66 billion, 2016 = $10.01 billion, 2017 = $10 billion, 2018 = $10.16 billion, 2019 = $10.1 billion, 2020 = $10.4 billion, 2021 = $12.78 billion

Disruptions

The educational book market is witnessing significant changes, driven by advancements in technology and evolving consumer preferences. The digital education publishing market in the United States is experiencing substantial growth, projected to have a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of from 2020 to 2025. 鈥,鈥 which surveyed 261 people about the collections of their academic libraries, found that 84.6% of survey respondents include eBooks and digital audiobooks in their collections. Roughly 90% reported having added new digital resources to their library in the past two years.听

Audiobooks have on educational books. According to IBISWorld鈥檚 Industry Report from April 2022, 鈥渟ome classrooms have turned to audiobooks, not to entirely replace traditional books, but to serve as an aid for kids who are still learning how to read as it can help them understand how words are supposed to sound and also engage them more with the reading.鈥 Audiobooks have been growing in the general book market. They made up 8% of sales in 2020, increased to 10.4% in 2021, and again to 11.3% of sales in 2022. According to OverDrive, audiobooks account for of digital book formats consumed on their classroom-focused Sora app.听

Another potential disruptor in the higher education book market is open-source educational content. Open Education Resource platforms are still a small movement, but BMI鈥檚 reports OER has had some recent successes. John McMurry, author of the best-selling McMurry Organic Chemistry text, recently to OpenStax. OER platforms work by offering open-source materials, like textbooks, free online. Oftentimes, they鈥檒l also provide the option to purchase a physical copy at a price significantly lower than traditional textbook sales price points.听

Even with the rise of digital resources, print remains a significant part of the educational book market. Repeated studies show print is more effective for learning and retention. Data technology company Broadband Now reports that don鈥檛 have access to broadband internet, meaning digital content can鈥檛 reach the entire audience, while a physical book can reach everyone.

Evolving Trends and Future Outlook

Educational book publishers are embracing digital printing. Digital print 鈥 as opposed to offset printing 鈥 lends itself to shorter book runs. The higher education book market has the potential to make the most of this method with customized textbooks. IBISWorld wrote, 鈥済iven that the majority of college and university professors have authority over curriculum and modify it regularly between semesters, publishers could provide customization options that could not only help educators tailor textbooks to courses but also limit the secondary market,鈥 which includes textbook rental and resale.听

Another boon to the educational book market is the increase in college enrollment, which IBISWorld wrote is expected to increase at an annualized rate of 0.2%. More college students means more demand for higher education textbooks and supporting material.听

As for the El-Hi educational book market, there鈥檚 good news there, too. Public funding is over the next several years. A bigger budget means districts are able to purchase more needed textbooks for their students.

Conclusion

The educational book market continues to thrive as a crucial component of the education system. With the advent of digital technologies and the emergence of alternative content sources, the market is evolving rapidly. Publishers are adapting to these changes by incorporating digital solutions and exploring new business models. As we move forward, the educational book market is poised for further growth and transformation, enabling students and educators to access high-quality learning resources in various formats. As for print, we know it will stick around, and publishers will find new ways for print and digital to work in tandem.听

Let’s Talk

Want to know more about how 抖阴短视频 can help you serve the educational book market? Let鈥檚 talk!

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Reading Habits and Format Trends /blog/book-formats Thu, 15 Jun 2023 13:07:27 +0000 /?p=6065 New book formats have been rising and falling in popularity for decades now. But what exactly is meant by 鈥渂ook formats鈥? For our purposes, we鈥檒l discuss electronic media, traditional print and graphic-heavy approaches. New entertainment options have been competing for both time and attention, but reading books has held its own as a pastime. Let鈥檚...

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New book formats have been rising and falling in popularity for decades now. But what exactly is meant by 鈥渂ook formats鈥? For our purposes, we鈥檒l discuss electronic media, traditional print and graphic-heavy approaches. New entertainment options have been competing for both time and attention, but reading books has held its own as a pastime. Let鈥檚 look at what the numbers say about reading habits and book formats.

monthly retail sales of US Bookstores Book Buying Habits by Month

Books sales have a seasonality. Certain times of the year have higher sales. Unsurprisingly, December is a high point every year. It makes sense sales would increase around the gift-giving holiday season. December is also a time when many workers take vacation time. Depending on the book given, this can represent a splurge or luxury gift. It may be an insightful gift into the receiver鈥檚 character, an acknowledgment of talents or interests, or so many other aspects of the giver and receiver. Books as a gift often represent a deeper understanding within a relationship, so purchases naturally spike during gift heavy holidays.

average daily time spent reading per capita in the US Time Spent Reading

Apart from 2020 鈥 when many were stuck at home 鈥 the average daily time spent reading has remained flat. On weekdays, the average American reads for less than 30 minutes per weekday for the period from 2018 to 2021. Weekend reading numbers were equally under an hour across the same time frame.

 

 

number of books read in previous 12 months Number of Books Read

A Pew Research study divided readers into eight categories, by the number of books they鈥檇 read in the previous 12 months. The biggest cohort was those who said they hadn鈥檛 read any books, at 23%. However, the second-largest group was the 鈥渟uper-readers,鈥 those who self-reported having read more than 20 books in the previous 12 months.

 

Why Read Books?

Even with all the distractions available these days 鈥 social media, video games, Netflix 鈥 books are still being read. Reading habits and format trends have changed, but the appeal of books has never gone away. No matter what technology comes along, the basic technology of ink on paper will always hold a place in our lives. Curling up with a good screen just doesn鈥檛 sound nearly as relaxing as the alternative you鈥檙e already thinking of!

Cognitive Benefits

Reading books, engages our minds in a unique way. It stimulates critical thinking, enhances concentration and improves memory retention. Studies have shown reading can boost analytical skills, expand vocabulary, and increase overall cognitive abilities. Unlike the fleeting nature of online content, books provide a deep and immersive experience. That experience encourages sustained focus and intellectual growth. Studies have demonstrated that the interaction of additional senses improves both understanding and retention. Holding a book, even sometimes smelling the 鈥渓ibrary鈥 while you read it, improves the experience鈥檚 cognitive impact.

Escapism

It allows us to disconnect and immerse ourselves in new narratives. Getting lost in a book can .

Emotional and Empathetic Connections

Books have the power to evoke strong emotions. They can create meaningful connections between readers and characters. Through literature, readers can explore diverse perspectives, cultures, and experiences. Those experiences foster empathy and understanding. Books offer a window into the human condition, helping us relate to others and develop our .

Deep Learning and Critical Thinking

Books provide in-depth knowledge on a wide range of subjects. Through reading, we engage in Books encourage critical thinking, enabling us to evaluate, analyze and question the content we encounter. They can cause us to question what 鈥渨e know鈥 and to explore and understand the differences.

Digital Detox and Restoring Balance

In a world of constant digital connectivity, physically printed books can offer a valuable respite. It provides an opportunity to disconnect from screens. It鈥檚 a reprieve from the distractions of incoming emails, texts and other intrusions. Reading a printed book allows us to find balance in our lives. Engaging with a printed book encourages a slower, more deliberate pace, promoting mindfulness and a break from the constant distractions of the digital realm.

Changing Trends in Book Formats

Over the years, the landscape of book formats has undergone big transformations. Technological advancements and shifting reader preferences have sparked numerous changes. This gave rise to diverse formats catering to different needs and preferences.

Rise of eBooks and Digital Reading

The advent of eBooks was expected to revolutionize the publishing industry. They provided readers with portable and easily accessible digital versions of their favorite books. While eBooks have gained widespread popularity due to their convenience, they haven鈥檛 been the juggernaut they were initially expected to be. In 2022, eBooks made up about 11% of trade book sales revenue. A May 2023 report from Statista shared 鈥渆-book sales growth is sluggish. The number of e-books sold each year is notoriously difficult to track and results depend on the data provided by publishers, and official figures show annual e-book revenue has yet to reach 1.5 billion U.S. dollars.鈥

Resurgence of Print Books

Contrary to predictions of their demise, printed books have experienced a significant resurgence. Readers still cherish the tactile experience of holding a physical book and turning its pages. They appreciate the aesthetic value of a well-designed cover. A 2020 survey by found new printed books were the overwhelming favorite among U.S. adults. Out of those surveyed, 39% preferred the format. The second-favorite book to purchase? Used printed books. Almost a third 鈥 听31% of respondents 鈥 said they preferred used print books. Meanwhile, 25% said they preferred eBooks and 5% chose audiobooks. Even in the midst of the pandemic, demand for printed books outstripped demand for digital readers.

Audiobooks for Multitasking and Learning

Audiobooks have gained in popularity over the last decade. Sales revenue from downloaded audiobooks in the U.S. more than doubled in five years 鈥 from $342.2 million in 2017 to $839.5 in 2022. Audiobooks hold special appeal for individuals who multitask. They鈥檙e also being used as a tool in classrooms, allowing students to follow along while they鈥檙e learning to read. Sales of physical audiobooks 鈥 like CDs or the giant sets of cassette tapes I used to play during road trips in my 1991 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera 鈥 have declined since 2017. At the same time, revenue for downloaded audio 鈥 the audiobooks downloaded directly to your phone or tablet 鈥 has grown. A Statista report from May 2023 predicted 鈥渁udiobooks will continue to gather ground. Print, however, is still the preferred book format.鈥

comics and graphic novel sales revenue in North America Comics and Graphic Novels

Comics and graphic novels 鈥 especially manga 鈥 have seen explosive growth in recent years, especially in the United States. executive director and industry analyst Kristen McLean said, 鈥淐omics and graphic novels have seen some of the fastest growth in the [US] industry since 2019, driven by unique factors including increased anime viewing during the pandemic driving new fandom for manga, consolidated sales of certain high-profile children鈥檚 series such as the 鈥楧ogman鈥 books in many outlets over the last few years, and the elevation of content from next-generation platforms like making the leap into page and screen.鈥 In 2022, manga sales brought in more than $246 million in the U.S., making up 54% of total graphic novel sales. A June 2022 by ICV2, Comichron and Statista showed revenue for printed comics and graphic novels reached $1.9 billion in 2021. In the same period, digital editions brought in just $170 million in revenue.

Graphics novels geared toward younger readers are expected to do especially well in the near future. “There were always [graphic novels] in the YA space but there are more for younger readers now. Part of that is a reaction to the disruption to education during the pandemic, but there are some really interesting things going on,” Bounce Marketing鈥檚 Robert Snuggs told .

Reading Communities and Social Media Influence

Online book clubs, reading communities and social media platforms have transformed the way readers discover, discuss and recommend books. Platforms like Goodreads, Bookstagram and especially enable readers to connect, share recommendations and spread the word about little-known books. Social media influencers and 鈥渂ooktubers鈥 also play a significant role in shaping reading trends and influencing book purchases. NPD BookScan鈥檚 Kristen McLean believes #BookTok will continue to drive book sales for a long time. She reported the group of BookTok-using authors they follow had a sales gain of 60% in 2022.

book format trends AI interest graph Artificial Intelligence

AI could be the next big disruptor to the book industry. However, it likely won鈥檛 be AI doing the writing for a while. An found 34% of respondents were 鈥渘ot at all interested鈥 in reading a book written entirely by AI. When asked if they would be interested in reading a book partially written by AI, 30% of those surveyed still said 鈥渘ot at all.鈥 A 2020 article in Forbes described AI-written books as However, as the technology advances, publishers are keeping an eye on it. didn鈥檛 think AI would be writing or editing all new books anytime soon, but it might play a role in distribution and marketing, or in weeding out the 鈥渟lush pile鈥 at publishing houses.

Times Keep on Changing

Despite the prevalence of digital technology vying for our attention, book reading continues to hold immense importance. New devices continue to pop up, but physically printed books remain the preferred format.

The changing landscape of books reflects the evolving preferences and needs of readers in the digital age. While eBooks and digital reading offer convenience, printed books continue to thrive, offering a sensory experience and a connection to tradition. Audiobooks provide an alternative way to consume stories. Online communities now play a big role in what people choose to read. As technology advances and reader preferences continue to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how book formats and reading habits adapt to meet the changing needs and desires of readers in the future.

Interested in putting your idea into print? Let鈥檚 talk!

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A History of Disruption in the Book Industry /blog/book-industry-history Wed, 31 May 2023 12:00:41 +0000 /?p=5922 For something that can be traced back hundreds or thousands of years, the book industry is still evolving. In fact, the history of the book industry has seen some of its biggest changes within the last 40 years! From ancient clay tablets to Gutenberg鈥檚 press to the appearance of the Kindle, the book industry is...

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For something that can be traced back hundreds or thousands of years, the book industry is still evolving. In fact, the history of the book industry has seen some of its biggest changes within the last 40 years! From ancient clay tablets to Gutenberg鈥檚 press to the appearance of the Kindle, the book industry is always adapting to disruptions.

Technology Breakthroughs

Way, Way Back

book industry history timelineThe first step toward modern publishing is believed to have been taken between 3,000 and 4,000 BCE. The ancient Sumerians in southern Mesopotamia started using , making marks on wet clay tablets. Those tablets would bake in the sun or a kiln, preserving written information for others to read later. This is the first known instance of writing.

As societies flourished and expanded, so did the demand for written texts. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans, among others, employed skilled scribes to meticulously transcribe books by hand. These hand-drawn manuscripts took a lot of time and skill to recreate. Scribes wrote on papyrus, parchment or vellum. first appeared around AD 105 in China. Ts鈥檃i Lun, an official in the Imperial court, created a sheet of paper using mulberry and other fibers. From China, papermaking slowly spread to the rest of the world over several hundred years.

The next step toward modern publishing happened in 8th-century China. Wood-block printing allowed for multiple copies of the same image or manuscript. Craftspeople would carve words and pictures into wooden blocks, ink them, and transfer that ink to paper. appeared in China in the 11th century.

Johannes Gutenberg changed the whole world with his mechanized printing press. The earliest mention of this press appeared in a Strasbourg lawsuit in 1439. A Bible printed in 1455 is the oldest book from Gutenberg鈥檚 press still in existence. This printing press marked a pivotal point in history. It allowed the widespread dissemination of knowledge for the first time in European history.

 

Offset Printing听

With in the early 20th century, print improved in quality. Ira W. Rubel owned a lithography shop in Nutley, New Jersey. He had been using the classic lithography method, which transferred ink directly from a metal or stone plate to paper. When Rubel forgot to load a sheet and the ink transferred to the rubber offset cylinder instead, he noticed that the resulting images were sharper and clearer.

Digital Development听

Commercial printers have long defaulted to offset printing as their preferred method. Offset printing has an initial setup cost, but the price per book decreases as the amount printed in a run increases. Initially, the quality of digital printing couldn鈥檛 compete with offset. However, as digital printing improved so did its popularity.

The was first introduced in 1989. That same year Graham Nash, best known as a member of the music group Crosby, Stills & Nash, saw the 3047 in action and decided to buy his own to print reproductions of his own fine art photography. Nash went on to found , which helped champion the use and improvement of digital printing to create fine art prints.

Digital printing opened the door to publishers who preferred smaller runs. Its lower setup cost made book printing more accessible to self-publishers and also opened the doors for print-on-demand.

A Changing Industry

Big Bookstores

Do you remember the period of time when Barnes & Noble was portrayed as the villain?听 In the romantic comedy You鈥檝e Got Mail 鈥 which came out in 1998 鈥 Tom Hanks plays the owner of Fox Books, a thinly disguised representation of Barnes & Noble. In the movie, the Fox Books superstore threatens to drive Meg Ryan鈥檚 small children鈥檚 bookstore out of business. The Decoder Ring podcast did on why this premise could have only worked in the 1990s.

This was a relatively brief period of time that had a huge impact on the book industry. Laura J. Miller, an associate professor of sociology at Brandeis University, wrote about this shift in As big retailers like Barnes & Noble and Borders grew, the number of independent bookstores fell.

When mass merchandisers like Wal-Mart and Target began carrying popular book titles, it pushed book prices even lower. The deep discounts they offered changed consumer perception of books. Miller wrote 鈥渂ooks had once shared with luxury items the quality of being hard to find.鈥

The era of giant chain bookstores arguably closed when Borders filed for bankruptcy in February 2011.

Amazon Approaches听

Retail giant Amazon was founded in 1994 as an online bookseller. It wasn鈥檛 the first online bookseller, but it was the most successful. , a former Wall Street hedge fund executive, chose books because research showed they were the most logical product to sell online. From the start, he argued that Amazon.com was not a bookseller, but a technology company that sold books. Bezos viewed their primary business as simplifying online transactions.

The convenience of purchasing books through Amazon made them even more accessible to consumers, further removing books from the perception of being a luxury good.

The eBook Era听

The first eBook reader (also called an eReader) appeared in the late 1990s but was deemed a failure due to lack of interest. The eBook push that began in the mid-2000s was much more successful. This was in part because technology had improved, but also because eBooks now had the backing of Amazon.

Amazon released its eReader in November 2007. It enticed readers by discounting the price of the eBooks available. The Kindle and its competitors 鈥 the iPad, Sony Reader and Barnes & Noble鈥檚 Nook 鈥 found popularity that initially worried retailers of physical books. However, the demand wasn鈥檛 as straightforward as it seemed.

鈥淏ook and electronics professionals worked very hard to create the demand through marketing campaigns and discounts,鈥 Miller wrote. Publishers invested resources and took risks to promote their eReaders and drive readership of eBooks. This push initially made it seem like eBooks would inevitably replace print. But that didn鈥檛 come to pass. While eBook sales have grown, they鈥檝e never come close to overtaking sales of print books.

 

book industry history trade book sales revenue

Printing Prevails

book industry historyAlthough eReaders still have their place in society, they never became the reading powerhouse predicted in the 2000s. found that 30% reported reading an eBook in the past 12 months, but 65% reported reading a print book. And numerous resources show that Gen Z, despite being defined as 鈥渄igital natives,鈥 value print over digital books in many situations.

The convenience of online sales still draws customers. A survey by Statista asked 3,490 shoppers where they purchased books in the past 12 months, including both online and in-store. Amazon had the most by far, with 68% saying they had purchased a book from Amazon in the past 12 months.

Even though retail giants make the most sales, the number of independent bookstores in the United States has risen. In 2009, the reported only 1,651 locations of independent bookstores. In 2015 that number was up to 2,227. The highest number recorded was in 2019 with 2,524. Independent bookstores took a dip with the COVID pandemic, but in 2022 the number was back up to 2,506.

Audiobooks听

One format to keep an eye on is audiobooks. Sales revenues of audiobooks have been continually growing, from $342.2 million in 2017 to $839.5 million in 2022. The tracked exponential growth of available audiobooks in less than 20 years. In 2007, only 3,073 titles were available. By 2021, that number had ballooned to almost 74,000.

It appears convenience is part of the appeal. Audiobooks are a popular format to consume at home or in the car and while multitasking. In fact, 73.4% of women and 66.1% of men said they multi-task while listening to audiobooks.

The rising popularity of audiobooks could be good for publishers. said they buy the same book in multiple formats and almost 70% said they are avid book readers or listeners.

Where to now?

All this information shows that the book industry is not easy to predict, but that it鈥檚 continued to evolve and stand the test of time and technology. Despite its long history, parts of the industry change and others stay the same. But one thing stays the same: people read books. They have for centuries now and they鈥檒l keep reading books.

We鈥檙e excited to see what happens with the industry in the future. 听New formats may appear, and existing mediums will rise and fall in popularity. However, we鈥檙e confident in the lasting popularity of the printed book. Despite all the options currently available, print remains the medium of choice. It鈥檚 been around for centuries and hasn鈥檛 fallen out of favor.

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