ReaderLink Distribution Services has acquired book assets from HDA that will allow the company to take over book distribution to the Menard’s and Bed, Bath & Beyond chains that had been serviced by HDA. The deal was completed May 1 and after what ReaderLink called a “short transitional period,” Michael Kirchwehm, HDA’s executive v-p of sales, will join ReaderLink as v-p of business development and special markets.
One of the largest distributors of magazines and books, HDA closed its operations in February as it looked for a way to reorganize its business. In a statement in the ReaderLink announcement, Robert Ketterer, HDA’s president, said, “We believe that the transaction with ReaderLink is in the best interests of our remaining retailer and publisher partners. I am confident that these customers will be in good hands as HDA continues to reorganize its business”.
“We are excited to have the opportunity to welcome these new retail partners,” said Dennis Abboud, ReaderLink’s president and CEO. “Our scale, focus on the category and strategic emphasis on driving sales will undoubtedly help grow the business in these important specialty channels.”
