Sterling Publishing, Barnes & Noble's publishing division, has bought Knock Knock, the gift and publishing company that includes Knock Knock, which offers notepads, sticky notes, journals, decks and books, and Em & Friends, known for humorous and empathetic gifts and greeting cards. Knock Knock has more than 600 backlist products and 150 frontlist projects. The move adds to Sterling's growing publishing operations, including Union Square & Co. and its Union Square Kids, Boxer Books, Puzzlewright and Sterling Ethos divisions.
Emily Meehan, chief creative officer and publisher, Union Square & Co. and affiliates, will oversee Knock Knock. She commented: "We are honored to welcome the smart and inspired team at Knock Knock and Em & Friends, and to provide them with a new home where they can continue to thrive. Their distinctive book, gift and paper products fit perfectly into categories we've earmarked for growth and will move our strategic vision forward."
Jen Bilik, CEO and founder of Knock Knock, said, "I launched Knock Knock in 2002 on a bit of a whim, and the growth, creativity and marketplace change we've experienced over the last 20 years has been exhilarating. With a new home at Union Square & Co., I know that the combined crackerjack crew will continue to expand our two brands into the future."
Bilik and Emily McDowell, founder of Em & Friends, will remain as creative consultants. Also staying are Jim Papscoe, v-p, sales & operations, and Craig Hetzer, v-p, associate publisher.