Thomson-Shore Acquires PublishNext, Expands Into Book Publishing, Distribution

DEXTER, MI—February 18, 2014—In a move that continues to build upon a world-class platform for book publishers, Thomson-Shore Inc. has acquired PublishNext and its subsidiary, Seattle Book. Through these acquisitions, Thomson-Shore will now offer an end-to-end platform, including publishing, production, and distribution services that meet the evolving needs of its publishing customers around the world.

"These acquisitions are reflective of our continuous commitment to our customers and filling their business needs," said Kevin Spall, president, Thomson-Shore. "Acquiring PublishNext and Seattle Book enables Thomson-Shore to offer significant capabilities, unique services and even more quality content and innovation in publishing. With these acquisitions, we’re now able to offer an entire publishing services platform so robust, we feel it’s untouchable in the marketplace. Thomson-Shore can offer publishers of all sizes the convenience of one company for all of their business needs."

The PublishNext suite of services adds all of the capability an author or small publisher needs to get their book published in print or an eBook from editorial and design to marketing. The Seattle Book Co. brings new distribution channels and partners to the table for Thomson-Shore customers. Distribution into new markets and to new readers is critical to the success of a title.

As part of the acquisition, Randy Kuckuck, founder and CEO of PublishNext and Seattle Book, will join Thomson-Shore as vice president of publishing services and distribution. He brings more than 30 years experience in the book printing and publishing industry to this new position at Thomson-Shore. Kuckuck is a Michigan native and graduate of Michigan State University.

Although operations will be integrated to create a seamless experience for customers, the three companies will maintain their separate brand identities. "Thomson-Shore, PublishNext and Seattle Book will continue to use their current names, logos, and brands," Spall explained. "Thomson-Shore made this acquisition, in part, because of the strength of these brands in their respective markets. These well known brands are an asset that are valuable for retaining current customers and attracting prospective customers."

PublishNext and Seattle Book will maintain an office on the west coast that will be managed by Kuckuck. Thomson-Shore has already added a publishing services coordinator and distribution coordinator position at its Dexter, MI, location to support the new services the company is offering.

About Thomson-Shore
Located in Dexter, MI, Thomson-Shore is a 100 percent employee-owned full service book publishing, production, and distribution company. The company specializes in fulfilling the needs of any book publisher, from the initial word document to the end reader. Its services include short- to medium-run digital and offset book printing and binding, as well as layout and design, editorial review, ISBN acquisition, eBook conversion, printing and marketing, and full service Trade distribution and fulfillment. Thomson-Shore is focused on providing the highest standard in quality and service.

Source: Thomson-Shore.