Hachette Book Group has joined Batch for Books, which streamlines invoice management and payment processes for both booksellers and publishers.
"This is an exciting milestone for Batch for Books," said Nathan Halter, U.S. program manager for Batch. "We are thrilled to partner with Hachette Book Group, whose commitment to supporting Batch underscores their dedication to fostering real, lasting change for independent bookstores. Together, we're building a stronger future for indie booksellers and the publishing ecosystem."
The Batch for Books platform is paperless and is currently used by more than 450 bookstores across the U.S. Its American publishing partners include Penguin Random House, Macmillan, HarperCollins, IPG, Microcosm Publishing, Arcadia Publishing, Blackstone Publishing, and Gardner's US. Batch was founded in 2000 by the Booksellers Association of the U.K. and Ireland and is currently used in more than 80 countries.
"We are delighted to be joining Batch in the U.S," said Matt Wright, HBG US Distribution CEO. "Amongst a number of service improvements, this is another important step for supporting independent bookstores, and we are excited to see it grow in the years ahead."
Allison Hill, CEO of the American Booksellers Association, said: "We're thrilled to see Hachette Book Group's strong support for the indie channel this past year. Their participation in Batch is further proof of their commitment to both the indies and innovation within the book industry, and ABA is grateful for their participation and leadership."
HBG is expected to be fully integrated with Batch by June. Booksellers interested in signing up for Batch can inquire via e-mail at support@batchforbooks.com.