Industry News
Follett Announces Sale of Baker & Taylor
Follett Corp. has sold book and digital content distributor Baker & Taylor, which will now operate as a separate, privately owned entity. The company was sold to a private investment group led by Amandeep Kochar, who previously served as general manager and executive vice president of Baker & Taylor.
Follett had acquired Baker & Taylor in April 2016., and the company offered no explanation for the divestiture, which comes just two months after the divestiture of its K–12 School Solutions Division. However, both Follett and Baker & Taylor indicated they expect a seamless transition for customers.
"Working together on a thoughtful transition, both Baker & Taylor and Follett Corporation are committed to ensuring this change is seamless for our customers, partners and team members," Kochar said.
"This is a pivotal and exciting time for Baker & Taylor. As an independent entity, we look forward to leading with our expertise and legacy and advancing our technology-based services and products," Kochar said.
Kochar will serve as president and CEO of Baker & Taylor. The rest of the management team will also be remaining in place. Related businesses will also be going with Baker & Taylor following the sale, including "Baker & Taylor Publisher Services, collectionHQ, Baker & Taylor UK and [Australian subsidiary] James Bennett," according to the companies.
About the Author
David Nagel is editorial director of 1105 Media's Education Technology Group and editor-in-chief of THE Journal and STEAM Universe. A 29-year publishing veteran, Nagel has led or contributed to dozens of technology, art and business publications.
He can be reached at [email protected]. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn at or follow him on Twitter at @THEDavidNagel (K-12) or @CampusTechDave (higher education).
