Indie & Traditional Book Publishing Today: An Inside Look
How authors and publishers are dealing with book distribution amid supply chain issues, shortages, rising costs, and more
Recently I had the opportunity to hear Athena Dean Holtz, founder and publisher of Redemption Press, speak to Word Weavers about the challenges facing authors and publishers today. Here are the highlights of her presentation:
The impact of inflation: Energy, materials, and labor costs are increasing and will feed higher book prices.
Supply chain and logistics pressures: As pandemic-related lockdowns are lifted, spending power is increasing. However, the shift to online spending is creating demand that is exacerbated by port congestion.
Paper price increases and shortages: In particular, cream-colored stock and heavy white paper for picture books have been a challenge to get.
Shipping prices and port delays: Delivery times are slower and shipping rates are increasing.
Shift to local manufacturing: Local printing and shipping has the least carbon impact. Publishers that use offset printing want to be able to print and store in nearby warehouses.
