In a significant move for the publishing industry, the Publishers Association of the West (PubWest) and the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) have unanimously agreed to merge into a single entity. This transition will take effect on July 1st, welcoming PubWest members into the IBPA under a new membership tier. The merger aims to cater to both established publishing houses and author-publishers, requiring specific criteria such as a book distributor, multiple published authors, and an established backlist. Andrea Fleck-Nisbet, CEO of IBPA, outlined plans to integrate PubWest programs and benefits while accommodating the diverse needs of its community.

The Path Forward: Integrating PubWest into IBPA

In the golden hues of autumn, the final annual conference of PubWest took place in New Orleans from February 11th to 13th, drawing 140 attendees including publishers, exhibitors, and students from Portland State University’s graduate publishing program. The event marked a pivotal moment as it heralded the forthcoming integration of PubWest into the IBPA. Fleck-Nisbet emphasized the importance of this transition, stating that the organization would continue to evolve to meet the needs of its members. She promised more details about the new membership structure and how PubWest's legacy would be preserved within the larger association.

Amy Barrett-Daffin, from C&T Publishing, led the opening keynote, focusing on financial strategies and digital optimization for independent publishers. Deborah Weisser of Sentient Publications and Molly Merkle of AdventureKEEN joined her, offering insights into maintaining a robust backlist and balancing creativity with financial constraints. Partnerships were highlighted as key growth drivers, with Barrett-Daffin citing a successful collaboration with Open Road Integrated Media, which significantly boosted sales. Merkle discussed her company's partnership with the Far Out app, enhancing their reach in digital markets.

During a session on maximizing efficiency and profitability, Tom Helleberg of Mountaineers Books moderated a discussion on workflow efficiencies and print buying strategies. The panelists underscored the importance of flexibility and adaptability, especially in response to post-pandemic supply chain challenges. Doug Symington, representing print services, emphasized the need for printers and publishers to collaborate closely to produce the best possible product, even if it means not maximizing profits.

The conference also introduced the Publishing Collective, a group of eight independent publishers aiming to negotiate more affordable printing options. Keith Riegert and Pete Schiffer concluded the event with a keynote on financial management during company growth phases. Michelle Cobb, executive director of PubWest, reflected positively on the conference, noting it was a fitting end to an era.

This merger signifies a new chapter for independent publishers, promising greater unity and support within the industry. It underscores the importance of collaboration and innovation in navigating the evolving landscape of publishing. As the combined organization moves forward, it sets a precedent for inclusivity and adaptability, ensuring that the voices of independent publishers remain strong and vibrant.