CHICAGO, IL—Independent Publishers Group (IPG) is excited to announce the formation of new in-house field sales representation, led by Michael Riley, vice president of sales, as part of a series of growth initiatives moving into IPG’s 50th anniversary in 2021.
“This is an opportunity to deepen our relationships with booksellers and partner with them more closely to bring independent voices to readers,” said Riley.
This new field sales team will work directly with independent bookstores and other trade accounts in the US, complemented by IPG’s experienced corporate team who work directly with national accounts, library and education accounts, and special sales accounts.
IPG plans to hire dedicated field sales representatives in the spring of 2021. Focusing on three territories—East Coast, Midwest, and West Coast—these locally established sales reps will work directly in those geographic locations to establish closer ties between IPG and the stores and chains located throughout. Newly hired Trade Sales Manager and publishing veteran Chris Conti will lead the field sales team, focusing specifically on the Midwest territory.
As part of this expansion and reorganization of field sales, IPG is parting ties with their current commission sales representatives effective May 1.
Added Riley, “Our reps have been valued colleagues supportive of independent publishing for many years, and we thank them for their work on behalf of IPG and its publisher clients.”
IPG continues to be represented by the Manda group in Canada, which reports to Scott Hatfill, IPG’s director of international sales.
Throughout 2021 IPG will be announcing further plans tied to their 50th year in book publishing and distribution. Previously announced expansions tied to the 50th anniversary include:
- Chicago Review Press Acquires Fulcrum Publishing Titles
- Triumph Books and Authentic Brands Group Launch Sports Illustrated Frontlist Books
Further details surrounding 50th anniversary plans can be found at www.ipgbook.com/50th.
Contact: Alisse Goldsmith-Wissman | Publicity Manager | 312.337.0747 | agoldsmithwissman@ipgbook.com