What's Happening?
Asterism, a distribution company for small publishers, is experiencing significant growth and is exploring expansion opportunities. The company, which currently supports over 216 active publishers, reported an 87% year-over-year revenue increase in 2025. This growth comes in the wake of the challenges faced by Small Press Distribution, positioning Asterism as a crucial support system for small publishers. The company is considering expanding its services to include warehousing and larger inventory management, particularly to better serve East Coast booksellers. Asterism is also enhancing its website to improve the discoverability of small-press titles, including features for digital and physical advance reader copies (ARCs) and a monthly catalog
to showcase new titles.
Why It's Important?
The expansion of Asterism underscores the ongoing challenges and opportunities within the small press publishing sector. As traditional distribution models face difficulties, companies like Asterism are stepping in to fill the gap, providing essential services that help small publishers reach broader audiences. This growth not only supports the diversity of voices in the publishing industry but also highlights the demand for innovative distribution solutions. The potential expansion into warehousing and inventory management could further solidify Asterism's role as a key player in the industry, offering more comprehensive support to small publishers and enhancing their market reach.
What's Next?
Asterism's future plans include seeking potential investors to support its expansion efforts. The company is also exploring ways to make its services more accessible to East Coast booksellers, which could involve establishing new distribution centers or partnerships. As Asterism continues to grow, it may attract interest from larger publishers seeking advanced distribution services. The company's focus on improving discoverability and accessibility for small-press titles could lead to increased sales and visibility for its clients, potentially reshaping the landscape of small press distribution.
