Business Movers
Hatching Penguin | Paperback Pioneer | 1
Jan 11, 2024
A skeptical bookseller rejects a publisher's offer to sell affordable paperback books, leading to a revolutionary change in the publishing industry. The origins of Penguin Books and the Lane brothers' determination to change the industry. Alan's journey of discovering a gap in the market, facing resistance from the board of directors. Naming the Penguins and the challenges faced in promoting the paperbacks. From skepticism to success and the overwhelming demand for affordable paperbacks.
33:07
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Quick takeaways
- Alan Lane's introduction of affordable paperback books revolutionized the publishing industry by reaching a wider audience and increasing book sales.
- Penguin Books' success was established through a breakthrough deal with Woolworths and the formation of a separate company, paving the way for further growth.
Deep dives
The Birth of Penguin Books
In 1935, Alan Lane, the owner of Bodley Head publishing company, introduces the concept of affordable paperback books to a skeptical bookstore owner. Lane believes that publishing cheap paperbacks will reach a wider audience and increase book sales. Despite facing resistance from the publishing industry, Lane forms Penguin Books and releases a series of paperbacks with distinctive orange covers, offering quality books at a retail price of sixpence. The initial response is underwhelming, but a deal with Woolworths department store provides a breakthrough, leading to soaring sales and the establishment of a separate company, Penguin Books Limited.
