Industries | Publishing

Attract Ears To Hear Through Audio Publishing

Audio publishing is an exciting field for many traditional publishing companies seeking to release audio versions of their printed publications. Audio versions may take different forms including on CD, file download or on devices pre-loaded with digital content referred to as “Playaway.” Most publishers are embracing the digital publishing route where downloads are concerned because the sale of products translates to virtually no inventory to store and the overall reduction of cost in terms of production and distribution.

Searching, acquiring and purchasing digital products is also easier from a consumer’s point of view as the products can be bought directly from a retailer and can be downloaded to their device of choice for immediate consumption.

Audio publishing isn’t simply limited to audiobooks although they do make up the vast majority of products available in this medium available in stores and through libraries. Other spoken word performances, be they radio programs, lectures or otherwise can also be sold as digital products online.

Interesting Industry Facts

• Sales of downloadable audiobooks increased in 2008, to 21 percent of sales, up from 17 percent in 2007.
• The majority of audiobooks continue to be targeted at adults, with 83 percent of the dollar volume, up from 74 percent in 2007. Audiobooks geared toward children and teens accounted for 17 percent, down from 25 percent in 2007.
• Fiction represented 73 percent of sales in 2008, up from 62 percent in 2007. Nonfiction represented 27 percent of sales in 2008, down from 35 percent in 2007.

People who enjoy audiobooks seek out specific genres within Non-fiction and Fiction, including:

• Business
• Mystery/Suspense
• Fantasy
• Science Fiction
• Romance
• Faith-based
• Biography
• Self-help

Read some success stories from our customers.

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