Thuringian publishers are also struggling with increased costs
Cost increases in many areas are also causing problems for the Thuringian publishing landscape. "Everything has become more expensive: Paper and energy, for example," said Heike Haupt in an interview with dpa. She is the managing director of the Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia regional association of the German Publishers and Booksellers Association.
The concentration in the book trade towards large outlets also makes it difficult for smaller publishers, such as those found in Thuringia, to place their range in the stores. "The small publishers often don't have the advertising power of the big houses and are therefore only marginally present in many bookshops," said Haupt.
In addition, small publishers also have to assess the extent to which they can pass on increased production prices to customers. "It's a balancing act that publishers currently have to master," said Haupt. She is not sure whether all Thuringian publishers will be able to survive this situation economically for long. One or two small and micro publishers in particular could be "shaky". Against this background, the Thuringian Book Days, which begin on Friday, are particularly important, emphasized Haupt.
Authors on site
At the trade fair in Erfurt's Steigerwaldstadion, 27 Thuringian publishing houses will be presenting themselves up to and including Saturday. In addition, seven authors and several book-related institutions will be on site, including the Thuringian Writers' Association and the Thuringian Agency for Creative Industries.
The Ministry of Economic Affairs supports the trade fair, which is free of charge for visitors, with 37,000 euros. "The Thuringian Book Days have developed into an important regional information and sales platform for the Thuringian publishing industry since they were first held in 2011," said Economics Minister Wolfgang Tiefensee (SPD), emphasizing the importance of the trade fair.
The Börsenverein estimates that there are currently around 90 publishers in Thuringia.
The rising costs in various sectors, including paper and energy, are making it challenging for Thuringian literature publishers to maintain their operations, as highlighted by Heike Haupt. Recognizing this, the Thuringian Book Fairs provide a vital platform for small publishers, giving them an opportunity to showcase their work and connect with potential readers.
Source: www.dpa.com
