NOVEMBER 7, 2021
BY JAMES BENNETT
The Follett Corporation today announced a change in ownership of its Baker & Taylor division. Baker & Taylor, the world's premier distributor of physical and digital books and services to public and academic libraries will now operate as an independent, privately owned entity after a divestiture to a private investment group led by President and CEO Aman Kochar.
Baker & Taylor's related businesses are moving with the sale and general operations and leadership remain unchanged. Businesses transitioning with the sale include Baker & Taylor Publisher Services, collectionHQ, Baker & Taylor UK and James Bennett Australia.
Kim Jardine, MD of James Bennett Australia comments, “James Bennett has always functioned as a separate, autonomous entity and we expect no change in the way that we run our local business in Australia and the broader Asia Pacific region. We continue to be committed to supporting our local publishing industry, and we are dedicated to staying relevant in the library industry by finding innovative solutions for our customers. It is therefore business as usual for our customers and partners.”
President and CEO of Baker & Taylor Aman Kochar, "This is a pivotal and exciting time for the Baker & Taylor group. As an independent entity, we look forward to leading with our expertise and legacy and advancing our technology-based services and products."
CEO and Follett Chairman Todd Litzsinger, "The Follett Board of Directors, the Follett Family and I are excited for Aman and the Baker & Taylor team and cannot wait to see where they take the business.
For any enquiries please contact James Bennett MD, Kim Jardine, on 02 8988 5000 or kjardine@bennett.com.au
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James Bennett
Unit 3, 114 Old Pittwater Road
Brookvale NSW 2100, Australia
P: +61 2 8988 5000