Private equity firm KKR acquires Simon & Schuster, bringing new opportunities for growth and employee ownership

Private equity firm KKR has acquired the iconic publishing house Simon & Schuster, with a focus on leveraging the stable book publishing business and expanding into new outlets such as audiobooks and international markets. The acquisition aims to attract top talent, including editors who can bring in bestselling authors, and boost employee engagement through broad-based ownership. KKR sees potential in leveraging technology, such as AI, to improve productivity and operational efficiency. The company plans to invest in growth areas, like the Latino market and science fiction, and capitalize on the stable and profitable nature of the book publishing industry.