For many authors, the "dream" is not fulfilled because they wrote a book, it's also fulfilled when they see it in a bookstore; the author's dream has become real. While publishing a book is easy online via platforms like Amazon and Flipkart, being offered in bookstores is the sign of credibility and success. This is where offline book distribution in India becomes relevant.
In the blog, we will explain how IIP's distribution services works, how your book can be available at larger bookstores like Sapna Books, and why being present offline still matters when looking to sell books.
Why authors should still care about offline distribution
Even with eBooks and online sales dominating the market, bookstores are still relevant to authors in India, and here is why:
-> Reader trust - many readers (perhaps many authors too) want to browse a physical shelf before buying.
-> Visibility - although critical to online sales, being in bookstores enhances credibility.
-> Impulsive buys - A reader who never searched for your book online, sometimes can pick it up when at a store.
-> author events - An author benefits by doing book launches, book signings, and promotional events when they have an offline presence.
In other words, if you are serious about your author career, then the best strategy is a mixture of selling online and offline.
Challenges of Offline Book Distribution in India
Getting into a bookstore is not easy. Distribution of traditional publishers in India typically requires:
-> Strong relationships with bookstore chains.
-> Minimum quantities of print.
-> High costs, a percentage of distribution costs and a commission.
-> Complex logistics of returns and stock.
Given these difficulties in distribution, self-published authors find offline distribution impossible without professional help.
IIP’s Offline Distribution: Making Bookstores Accessible
This is where IIP's offline distribution service is a game-changer for self-published authors. Instead of independently approaching stores, authors leverage IIP's strong retail distribution network.
With IIP, your book is accessible to every leading bookstore and retail library across India, including:
-> Sapna Books - one of the biggest retail chains in India.
-> Crossword Bookstores - a well-known store, more familiar with a younger readership and often located in metro cities.
-> Independent and small regional stores - access to small independent outlets across states.
With IIP distribution with Sapna Books and others, you don't just have your book from an online perspective, you have your book on a shelf too.
How IIP Offline Distribution Works
The process is simple and author friendly. Here's how it works:
1. Book Publishing with IIP
When your book is published with IIP, you select the offline distribution option in your package.
2. Printing and Warehousing
The book is printed in batches and warehoused at a 3rd party warehouse that are partners with IIP, so they are ready to go when an order is placed.
3. Placing the Retail Network
IIP places your book on the racks of any of its Chains like Sapna Books, Crossword and will also distribute to independent bookstores.
4. Invoice, Delivery and Returns.
IIP invoices the sale, delivers the title and arranges for any returns, which means you do not need to take on the headache of traditional distribution.
5. Reporting and Royalties
Authors receive clear reporting on how well their book is selling and with regular royalty payments.
Benefits of IIP Offline Distribution
By taking up IIP’s distribution, there are many benefits including:
-> Accessibility to Major Retailers: Putting your book into the major definitive bookstore chains without one-on-one negotiations.
-> Streamlined Process: IIP manages the logistics of getting your book stocked, how it is stocked, and managing the returns and disposition process.
-> Increased Visibility: By going to a bricks-and-mortar retail store offline, you increase the visibility of your title and increase both your online sales and author brand- the more touchpoints you allow customers to see the more market share you will develop.
-> Credibility and Author Brand: The more you provide, the more credibility the bookstores buy into, thereby elevating your brand and author status.
-> Marketing Opportunities: Offline visibility creates potential launch events, interviews, and publicity and media channels.
IIP Distribution with Sapna Books: A Key Advantage
Sapna Books, as one of IIP’s retail partners, is worth mentioning because it is one of the largest bookstore chains in India, in terms of size and with physical stores primarily based in south India (most all major markets), and with internet presence. Sapna Books supplements authors connecting with their readers.
The distribution IIP provides through Sapna Books, your title is:
-> In the store with significant foot traffic and consumer engagement.
-> In front of students and young professionals.
-> List on the site, SapnaOnline, one of the largest books selling websites in India.
Thus, it is an invaluable distribution channel for any author who is looking to sell more books and expand their readership.
Who Should Consider Offline Distribution?
Offline distribution is the best solution for:
-> Debut authors who need to establish some credibility.
-> Academic authors who need some traction in college bookstores.
-> Novelists and non-fiction authors who want to reach a wider Indian audience.
-> Authors who are planning author engagements, such as book launch/signing/talk.
If you are publishing a book that you really want to create visibility for and get in front of as many readers as possible, offline distribution is an important step.
Conclusion
In the present-day publishing world, while there may be a huge online market, bookstores are still a very compelling option. The chance to see your book on the shelf of Sapna Books or Crossword is not just a distant wish; with the right supplier, this can become a reality.
With IIP’s offline distribution offering in India, you will have access to the main bookstore chains, and you will not have to worry about logistics from an author standpoint. Moreover, IIP has very strong market penetration and experience in the Indian market. If you have been confused about what publishers have to offer in terms of distribution in India, then IIP can guide you through the process in a straightforward, transparent and friendly way.