Outsourced logistics and distribution - the long-standing model for Bonnierförlagen
The magnificent Bonnier House on Sveavägen in Stockholm is home to Bonnierförlagen, which has been providing readers with literature across genres for almost 200 years. Over the decades, the volumes have been vast — and in 2022 alone, more than 8 million books were sold. That corresponds to an average of 30,000 Bonnier books distributed every working day, or an astonishing 4,000 books per hour, spanning 6,303 different titles.
The logistics and distribution behind these numbers don’t take place at Sveavägen but are managed by Speed at our logistics centre in Rosersberg, Stockholm — a collaboration established many years ago.
- Speed are experts in book logistics and distribution, which gives us great confidence. At the same time, it’s valuable that they also have experience from other industries, says Göran Wiberg, Sales Director at Bonnierförlagen. Speed handles orders, inventory, invoicing, customer service and accounts receivable for both retailers and the consumer market. For us, outsourcing is far more cost‑effective than managing everything ourselves.
The printed book is under pressure
Bonnierförlagen consists of around ten publishing houses and Bonniers Bokklubbar. Every year, they publish more than 600 new titles. Because a book often has a relatively short lifecycle, warehouse turnover is high — and the rise of audiobooks has created additional pressure.
- The printed book has held up surprisingly well against digital formats for many years, but the trend is undeniably downward, says Göran. We need to stay alert and continue making the physical alternative attractive — for example through faster distribution and improved customer service, both to retailers and consumers. Together with Speed, we continuously explore new ways and new approaches.
Sustainability strengthens the offer
Sustainability is another key focus area — not just internally at Bonnierförlagen, but as part of staying competitive and enhancing their value proposition.
- We are fully focused on optimising and improving our processes to become even more sustainable. Having Speed as a partner is extremely valuable, given their strong sustainability focus and the goals they are working towards. We’re convinced that together we can achieve something truly impactful.
