SPS-414: Selling Books Direct with Bookvault – with Alex Smith
Dec 8, 2023
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Alex Smith, an expert in selling books direct with Bookvault, discusses bypassing royalty cuts and the benefits of selling books directly to readers. The chapter explores Bookvault's platform for indie authors, their aim to build a global print network, and the importance of creating special editions. It also discusses the affordability and quality of their printing services compared to competitors.
Bookfold offers a print on demand platform that allows indie authors to sell their books directly from their own websites, handling printing, fulfillment, and shipping.
Bookfold's focus on direct sales aligns with the current trend in the indie market, enabling authors to build stronger connections with readers and maximize their book's potential.
Deep dives
Bookfold: A Platform for Direct Selling and Print on Demand
Bookfold is a print on demand platform that offers publisher-grade features to indie authors and individuals. With their own print facility in the UK and partnerships with facilities in the US and India, Bookfold aims to provide global print-on-demand services. They are focused on producing beautiful books and offer special editions, such as ones with foil covers and ribbons. Bookfold integrates with popular platforms like Shopify, WordPress, Wix, and Zapier, allowing authors to sell their books directly from their own websites. The platform handles printing, fulfillment, and shipping, offering authors the ability to sell special editions and personal autographed copies. Bookfold also offers free unlimited uploads for organization members and volume discounts for large book runs.
The Growth of Direct Selling in the Indie Market
Bookfold has witnessed a significant increase in authors going direct and embracing direct selling. More authors are recognizing the advantages of taking control of their own publishing journey and selling books directly to their audience. Bookfold's focus on direct sales aligns with the current trend in the indie market, as authors aim to build stronger connections with their readers and earn more from their book sales. By leveraging platforms like Bookfold, authors can sell special editions, target super fans, and offer high-quality products. Direct selling, combined with effective marketing and tools like Bookfunnel, enables authors to maximize their book's potential and increase their profits.
Printing Automation and High-Quality Offerings
Bookfold has undergone a remarkable transformation in its printing process over the years. From small digital printers, they have evolved to using advanced inkjet technology, printing color books on coated stocks. Bookfold's ability to charge per color page has made it more affordable for authors to create special editions without incurring additional costs. While certain bespoke options, such as gold leaf applications or foil covers, may still require manual work, Bookfold focuses on automating the core printing processes to maintain efficiency and offer competitive pricing. Bookfold's commitment to producing beautiful books and delivering high-quality results has made them a preferred choice among authors.
Bookfold's Pricing Model and Future Endeavors
Bookfold has introduced an upload fee to prevent mass uploads and ensure a better user experience. However, they offer unlimited uploads for members of organizations like BitNovelists and Independent Authors. Bookfold also offers a subscription-based plan called Bookfold Pro, which provides unlimited uploads for a monthly fee. The platform continues to explore options for authors who require large print runs and is open to discussing special arrangements for such cases. As direct selling gains traction, Bookfold remains committed to supporting authors on their publishing journey, recognizing the potential of indie authors to earn meaningful incomes and become successful in the publishing industry.
