Readerlink Distribution Services has reached an agreement with TNG GP to acquire most of TNG’s book business while TNG takes over Readerlink’s store merchandising functions.
The deal is expected to be completed June 2. Under the agreement, Readerlink will assume responsibility for distributing books to all but a limited number of retailers that had been serviced by TNG. A Readerlink spokesperson said that when the deal is completed, the former TNG accounts will represents about 35% of Readerlink store fronts. The move will add some entirely new retailers to Readerlink’s distribution business and broaden its business with others. TNG will keep a few specialty accounts.
While it is expanding its distribution business, Readerlink will outsource its merchandising efforts to TNG. When the deal closes, all Readerlink field merchandising employees will be transferred to, and hired by, TNG. Executives at Readerlink and TNG said the alliance will allow both companies to focus on areas of strength. Readerlink is the country’s largest distributor of books to mass merchandisers.
