The beginning of the end for returns?

"Borders to drop "sale or return" for HarperStudio book"


We all know what a problem the traditional method of book distribution can be. Is it finally changing?

If this works out and the rest of the industry can be pressured into making the change, it will mean good and bad things for authors. Expect smaller print runs, smaller advances, and more emphasis on platform building and branding.

On the plus side, royalties should be paid out more quickly, since there is no need to keep a reserve for returns. There is the potential for more opportunities for new authors, since there won't be so much money tied up in publisher's inventories.

Now it's "wait and see". This could bring book publishing/distribution into the 21st century, finally.

Audrey