Amazon, Hachette Scuffle over Terms
After a number of its titles began showing long shipping times on Amazon, Hachette Book Group issued a statement noting that there are “legitimate questions” about the issue, given the immediate availability of its titles on other websites and in stores. The dispute is believed to be linked to negotiations over new terms by the two parties.
Recorded Books Buys HighBridge Audio
Recorded Books has acquired HighBridge Audio, the audiobook imprint of Workman Publishing. The purchase, which was completed May 1, will add about 1,000 titles to the Recorded Books list, and will significantly expand its presence in the trade market.
Tinicum Acquires Majority Stake in F+W
Tinicum, a private equity firm with investments in media and e-commerce, has purchased a majority stake in F+W, an old media content company that has transformed itself into a digital content and retailing platform. F+W management, led by David Nussbaum, will remain in place.
Harper Acquires Bible Software Company
HarperCollins Christian Publishing has acquired Olive Tree Bible Software, which makes online and mobile software and apps for Bible study and devotional use that will complement HCCP’s online Bible website.
Oyster Titles Top 500,000
Subscription e-book service Oyster has announced the addition of about 500 new publisher partners, bringing its library of e-books to more than 500,000 titles. Oyster has also expanded its partnership with HarperCollins, adding 10,000 Harper backlist titles to the Oyster database.
ReaderLink Buys HDA Book Assets
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. HDA previously serviced the two retailers, but it ceased operations in February. 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.
