Distribution and Operational Jobs in Publishing

Distribution is an important and complex element of the publishing process. Many assume the hard work has been done once the bound copy has arrived in-house, but it is crucial that the stock reaches destinations in a timely and cost-effective manner, particularly in competitive markets, where timing is key. Distribution and Operations cover the following functions: invoicing, stock control, order processing, credit control, warehousing and shipping. Given the amount of new titles published each year, plus the backlist titles of years before, an efficient distribution service is vital to the success of a publishing company.

Some companies manage the distribution of stock within their own warehouses, but larger companies will outsource the distribution function to specialist organisations that have facilities for larger scale storage and delivery. Many of these specialist distribution companies work solely for publishing and therefore have considerable influence and involvement in the publishing industry.